“Transformers: The Ride-3D,” the first-ever theme park ride inspired by Hasbro’s successful Transformers toy line and Michael Bay’s films, has premiered at Universal Studios Hollywood, and is now open to the public. Among the guests in attendance at the premiere were Steven Spielberg; ‘Transformers’ star Glenn Morshower, who appears in the ride; Frank Welker, who voices the ride’s Megatron character and Peter Cullen, who is the voice of the ride’s Optimus Prime character.

As Universal Studios Hollywood’s most ambitious ride, ‘Transformers: The Ride-3D’ incorporates original 3D-HD media with elaborate flight simulation technology and special effects. The ride also features action sequences and an inventive storyline.

The 3D ride propels riders along 2,000 feet of ride track. Fourteen screens, many 60 feet tall, surround the ride. The ride was created by Bay, Industrial Light & Magic, Hasbro, Inc. and Universal Creative.

Larry Kurzwell, the president of Universal Studios Hollywood, said “Transformers represents a perfect match for our theme park: an exhilarating blockbuster, non-stop action and astonishing special effects.” He added that he thinks the ride has the elements to become one of the world’s most dynamic theme park thrill rides and one of the centerpiece attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood.

The president of Universal Creative, Mark Woodbuy, said “we’ve pushed the boundaries of 3D, hyperrealism and immersive visual effects to transport our guests, physically and viscerally, into the world of Transformers.” He added that working with Bay, who served as the ride’s Creative Consultant, has been extraordinary.

Written by: Karen Benardello