Scream, a thrilling tower ride, has been an iconic fixture at Six Flags New England since it first debuted in 1998. Known for its towering height and breathtaking views, this drop tower ride offers a heart-pounding experience that attracts thrill-seekers from all around. Towering above the park, Scream is not just a ride but a testament to the park’s commitment to providing high-adrenaline excitement. Let’s delve into the details of this exhilarating attraction and explore what makes it a must-ride for any roller coaster or thrill enthusiast.
History and Design
Scream was manufactured by S&S Worldwide, a company renowned for its high-quality, adrenaline-inducing amusement rides. It is a triple-tower ride, meaning it features three separate towers capable of launching and dropping riders simultaneously. The structure's sleek, metallic design contrasts sharply with the bright, playful colors of other rides at the park, making it stand out as a more intense experience.
Originally, the ride was designed to be part of a larger thrill section of the park and quickly became one of Six Flags New England’s most popular attractions. Over the years, it has undergone a few minor updates but has remained largely true to its original design and purpose: providing sheer, unbridled thrills.
Ride Experience
Scream stands at an imposing 200 feet (60.96 meters) tall. Riders are strapped into one of the three towers, which operate in different modes to deliver a variety of experiences, including a combo launch, single drop, and a bounce mode. Once the safety restraints are securely in place, the ride begins with an anticipatory pause, followed by a sudden, powerful blast upward.
One of the ride’s most thrilling features is the unpredictability of its operation. Depending on the selected mode, the ride might launch riders to the top in a matter of seconds or slowly raise them, giving ample time to take in the surrounding view of the park and Connecticut River Valley. Once at the peak, the real excitement begins. Riders experience a moment of weightlessness as they freefall back down, reaching speeds of up to 40 miles per hour (64.37 km/h).
The descent, which is over in mere seconds, creates a powerful stomach-churning sensation. This rapid drop, combined with the feeling of total freefall, makes Scream one of the most intense drop tower rides in New England.
Technical Specifications
- Height: 200 feet (60.96 meters)
- Max Speed: 40 mph (64.37 km/h)
- Number of Towers: 3
- Launch Modes: Combo, Drop, and Bounce
- Capacity: 16 riders per tower (48 riders total)
What Makes Scream Unique
Unlike other drop tower rides that focus on a single mode of operation, Scream offers three distinct experiences, making it more versatile and keeping riders coming back for more. Whether you prefer the suspense of the slow ascent, the sudden launch, or the classic straight-down drop, Scream caters to a wide range of thrill-seeking preferences.
The location of the ride is another standout feature. Positioned near the center of the park, Scream provides panoramic views that few other rides can match. From the top, riders can see the entire layout of Six Flags New England, the neighboring towns, and on a clear day, even the distant skyline of Springfield, Massachusetts.
Safety Measures
Safety is paramount for any thrill ride, and Scream is no exception. Each tower is equipped with state-of-the-art safety features, including hydraulic restraint systems and redundant braking mechanisms that ensure a smooth, controlled stop even in the event of a mechanical issue. The ride is inspected daily by park staff and undergoes rigorous maintenance checks throughout the operating season.
Tips for Riding Scream
- Visit Early: Scream tends to get busier as the day progresses, so hitting this ride early in the morning or during the last hour before park closure can reduce wait times.
- Secure Your Belongings: Loose items are not permitted on the ride, so use the nearby lockers or leave items with a non-riding friend.
- Enjoy the View: For a brief moment at the top, take in the stunning view of the park and the surrounding landscape. It’s one of the few times you’ll get to see the entire park from such a height!
- Don’t Tense Up: The key to enjoying a freefall ride is to relax and let the sensation take over. It can be tempting to tense up, but keeping your body loose will make the experience more enjoyable.
Scream at Six Flags New England is more than just a drop tower — it’s a test of courage, a heart-pounding thrill, and a unique way to see the park from new heights. Its impressive height, varied launch modes, and breathtaking drops make it a staple for thrill-seekers visiting the park. If you haven’t yet experienced Scream, be sure to put it at the top of your list the next time you visit Six Flags New England!
Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or just looking to conquer your fear of heights, Scream promises an unforgettable ride experience that will leave you breathless — and probably wanting to do it all over again.