Six Flags Great America has officially announced the arrival of a groundbreaking new attraction set to debut in 2025: the Wrath of Rakshasa, a record-breaking dive coaster that will be one of just two of its kind in the Midwest. This announcement follows weeks of cryptic teasers from the park, heightening anticipation among roller coaster enthusiasts.
A New Era of Thrills at Six Flags Great America
On August 15, Six Flags Great America revealed via social media that the Wrath of Rakshasa will be their first new roller coaster since 2019. This dive coaster will feature the world’s steepest drop for its kind at a staggering 96-degree beyond-vertical angle, alongside five inversions—the most on any dive coaster to date.
What Sets Wrath of Rakshasa Apart?
Dive coasters are a unique type of steel roller coaster designed by Bolliger & Mabillard, characterized by their distinctive seating arrangement. Riders sit in three-row trains, with the Wrath of Rakshasa accommodating seven riders per row. The thrill begins with a heart-stopping drop over 100 feet, followed by a brief suspension at the top of the lift hill, offering riders a terrifying view before plummeting down.
The trains are floorless, providing an even more intense experience as riders’ feet dangle above the track. This coaster will use over-the-shoulder vest restraints similar to those on the park’s X-Flight coaster, ensuring both safety and comfort during the ride.
Technical Specs and Ride Experience
Standing at 180 feet tall, the Wrath of Rakshasa will become the third-tallest coaster in the park. Its 171-foot drop will rank as the third-largest, following Raging Bull’s 208-foot drop and Goliath’s 180-foot drop. With a track length of 3,239 feet and top speeds reaching 67 miles per hour, this coaster will also be among the fastest in the park.
Located in the County Fair section of the park, home to rides like Demon and American Eagle, Wrath of Rakshasa promises to deliver an unforgettable ride experience. Despite earlier rumors of Demon’s removal, the classic ride will remain, adding to the diverse lineup in the park’s County Fair area.
A Notable Addition to the Dive Coaster Family
Wrath of Rakshasa will be the 18th dive coaster constructed by Bolliger & Mabillard and the eighth in North America. Dive coasters are relatively rare in the Midwest, with the only other one being Valravn at Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio.
Other dive coasters in North America include:
– SheiKra – Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Florida
– Griffon – Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Virginia
– Yukon Striker – Canada’s Wonderland, Ontario, Canada
– Emperor – SeaWorld San Diego, California
– Dr. Diabolical’s Cliffhanger – Six Flags Fiesta Texas, San Antonio, Texas
– Iron Menace – Dorney Park, Pennsylvania
Part of a Larger Expansion Strategy
The announcement of Wrath of Rakshasa comes on the heels of a major merger between Six Flags and Cedar Fair, forming the new Six Flags Entertainment Corporation. This merger signals a wave of new investments across the parks, with similar ride announcements occurring at other locations. For example, Kings Dominion in Virginia is set to receive a launched wing coaster, while Canada’s Wonderland will introduce **Alpen Fury**, a coaster boasting the most inversions for its kind in North America.
With its record-breaking features and thrilling ride experience, Wrath of Rakshasa is poised to become a must-ride attraction at Six Flags Great America. This new dive coaster will not only enhance the park’s reputation for thrills but also provide a unique experience for roller coaster fans in the Midwest.
Image: Six Flag
