Possessed at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom in Allentown, Pennsylvania is an inverted impulse launched roller coaster manufactured by Intamin and designed by Werner Stengel. The coaster is unique because riders hang upside down beneath the track while being launched forward and backward by linear induction motors (LIM).

Possessed is a shuttle coaster, meaning it launches riders forward, then backward, then forward again in a series of intense back-and-forth movements. The coaster features two vertical spikes—one twisted 180 degrees and one straight vertical—connected by launch sections.

The coaster opened at Dorney Park in 2008 under the name Voodoo and was renamed Possessed in 2009. It's one of only a handful of inverted impulse coasters operating in the world, making it a unique and highly sought-after ride for coaster enthusiasts.

The Specifications of Possessed

Understanding the specifications of Possessed helps explain what makes this coaster so intense and unique.

Height, Speed, and Duration

Height: 115 feet | Speed: 55 mph | Track Length: 1,450 feet | Ride Duration: Approximately 1 minute 45 seconds

While Possessed isn't the tallest or fastest coaster at Dorney Park, the specifications don't tell the full story. The inverted impulse mechanism creates an intensity that goes beyond traditional metrics.

Manufacturer and Designer

Manufacturer: Intamin | Designer: Werner Stengel | Type: Inverted Impulse Launched Shuttle Coaster | Inversions: 2 (riders hang upside down throughout)

Intamin is a Swiss coaster manufacturer known for innovative and intense coaster designs. Werner Stengel is a legendary coaster designer who has created some of the most iconic coasters in the world.

Track Layout and Design

Possessed features a unique "U" shaped layout with two vertical spikes connected by launch sections. The layout consists of:

- A launch section with linear induction motors
- A twisted vertical spike that rotates riders 180 degrees
- A return launch section
- A straight vertical spike with a holding brake (no longer operational)
- Multiple back-and-forth launches

G-Force

Maximum G-Force: 3.7 Gs | This is relatively low for an inverted impulse coaster, but the sensation is still intense due to the inverted nature and rapid launches.

The History of Possessed: From Superman to Voodoo to Possessed

Possessed has an interesting history spanning multiple parks and multiple names. Understanding this history helps explain the coaster's unique journey.

The Beginning: Superman: Ultimate Escape at Six Flags Ohio (2000-2004)

Possessed originally opened on May 5, 2000 at Six Flags Ohio (formerly known as Geauga Lake) under the name Superman: Ultimate Escape. The coaster was themed after the DC Comics character Superman and featured the original blue, red, and yellow color scheme associated with Superman.

The coaster was an instant hit, becoming one of the most popular attractions at Six Flags Ohio. The inverted impulse concept was relatively new at the time, and Superman: Ultimate Escape showcased the intensity and innovation of the coaster type.

The Transition: Steel Venom at Geauga Lake (2004-2006)

In 2004, Cedar Fair purchased Six Flags Ohio and restored the park's original name, Geauga Lake. As part of the acquisition, Cedar Fair removed all Looney Tunes and DC Comics branding from the park's attractions.

Superman: Ultimate Escape was renamed Steel Venom, and the coaster received a new logo featuring a black background with a silver and purple snake. Despite the name change, the original blue, red, and yellow color scheme remained intact.

Steel Venom operated at Geauga Lake until 2006, when the coaster was dismantled and put into storage as Cedar Fair prepared to close the amusement park section of Geauga Lake.

The Relocation: Voodoo at Dorney Park (2008)

At the end of the 2007 season, Cedar Fair announced that the amusement park section of Geauga Lake would close, leaving only the water park (Wildwater Kingdom) in operation. Many rides from Geauga Lake were relocated to other Cedar Fair parks.

Steel Venom was relocated to Dorney Park, where it reopened on May 17, 2008 under the name Voodoo. Prior to opening at Dorney Park, the coaster was repainted with a new color scheme featuring teal supports and yellow track.

The name Voodoo was fitting for a coaster that had been moved from one park to another, and the new color scheme gave the coaster a fresh, modern appearance.

The Renaming: Possessed at Dorney Park (2009-Present)

In 2009, just one season after opening at Dorney Park, the coaster was renamed Possessed. The renaming came about because Six Flags had recently trademarked the name Voodoo for another ride at one of their parks.

Instead of challenging Six Flags over the name, Cedar Fair opted to appease them and rename the coaster. Cedar Fair turned the incident into a marketing opportunity, creating a story that the ride had been "overtaken by evil spirits," fitting in line with the ride's original Superman theme.

The new name, Possessed, has stuck since 2009 and is now the coaster's permanent identity at Dorney Park.

Recent History: COVID-19 Closure and Reopening

Possessed was closed for the entire 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The coaster reopened in 2021 and has been operating successfully since then.

How Possessed Works: The Inverted Impulse Mechanism

The inverted impulse mechanism is what makes Possessed unique and intense. Understanding how it works helps explain the experience.

The Inverted Design

Possessed is an inverted coaster, meaning riders hang upside down beneath the track. The train is mounted below the track, and riders sit in seats that hang from the track.

This inverted design creates a sensation of hanging in mid-air with nothing beneath you. The psychological impact of hanging upside down is intense and contributes significantly to the coaster's terror factor.

The Linear Induction Motor (LIM) Launch System

Possessed uses linear induction motors (LIM) to launch the coaster train. The LIM system uses electromagnetic forces to accelerate the train from 0 to 55 mph in a matter of seconds.

The LIM launch system is smooth and powerful. Riders experience intense acceleration as the train launches forward. The launch is one of the most intense elements of the ride.

The Shuttle Mechanism

Possessed is a shuttle coaster, meaning it launches riders forward, then backward, then forward again. The shuttle mechanism allows the coaster to operate without a complete circuit.

The shuttle mechanism works by launching the train forward up the twisted vertical spike, then the train falls backward and is launched backward up the straight vertical spike, then the train falls forward and is launched forward again.

This back-and-forth motion creates a unique experience where riders don't know which direction they'll be facing or which way is up.

The Vertical Spikes

Possessed features two vertical spikes:

1. The Twisted Vertical Spike: This spike twists riders 180 degrees as they ascend. Riders go up the spike upside down, then fall backward down the spike, experiencing intense airtime and disorientation.

2. The Straight Vertical Spike: This spike is a traditional vertical spike with a holding brake at the top (though the brake is no longer operational). Riders are launched up this spike and experience intense airtime at the top.

The Holding Brake

Originally, Possessed featured a holding brake at the top of the straight vertical spike. The holding brake would engage on the final launch, locking the train in place for a brief moment before releasing.

The holding brake created a moment of suspense as riders were held upside down at the top of the spike. However, the holding brake is no longer operational on Possessed. Valleyfair's Steel Venom is currently the only Intamin impulse coaster in the United States still operating with its holding brake.

The Rider Experience: What Does Possessed Feel Like?

The experience of riding Possessed is intense, disorienting, and unforgettable. Understanding what riders experience helps explain why this coaster is so popular.

The Loading and Restraint Check

Riders are loaded into seats that hang beneath the track. The restraint system consists of lap bars and seat belts that keep riders secure throughout the ride.

The inverted seating position is immediately disorienting. Riders are sitting upside down before the ride even begins, which creates anticipation and anxiety.

The First Launch

The coaster launches forward with intense acceleration. Riders feel the LIM system propelling them forward at high speed. The acceleration is smooth but powerful.

As the train launches, riders are heading toward the twisted vertical spike. The anticipation builds as riders approach the spike.

The Twisted Vertical Spike

The train climbs the twisted vertical spike while rotating 180 degrees. Riders experience intense airtime as they ascend the spike upside down.

At the top of the spike, riders are completely inverted and suspended in mid-air. The sensation of hanging upside down with nothing beneath you is terrifying and exhilarating.

Then the train falls backward down the spike. Riders experience intense airtime and disorientation as they fall. The sensation of falling while inverted is one of the most intense moments of the ride.

The Return Launch

After falling backward down the twisted spike, the train is launched backward toward the straight vertical spike. Riders are now traveling backward, which adds to the disorientation.

The backward launch is just as intense as the forward launch. Riders feel the LIM system propelling them backward at high speed.

The Straight Vertical Spike

The train climbs the straight vertical spike while traveling backward. Riders experience intense airtime as they ascend the spike.

At the top of the spike, riders are suspended upside down at the top of a vertical structure. The sensation is terrifying and exhilarating.

Then the train falls forward down the spike. Riders experience intense airtime and are now facing forward again.

The Final Launch

After falling down the straight spike, the train is launched forward one more time. This final launch is less intense than the previous launches, as the train is slowing down.

The final launch propels the train back toward the station, where the train comes to a stop.

The Aftermath

After riding Possessed, riders often report feeling dizzy, disoriented, and exhilarated. The combination of inverted seating, intense launches, and multiple directional changes creates a memorable and intense experience.

Many riders want to ride again immediately to experience the sensation again. The unpredictability of the ride (riders don't know which direction they'll be facing) encourages repeat rides.

Possessed vs. Other Inverted Impulse Coasters

Possessed is one of only a few inverted impulse coasters operating in the world. How does it compare to other inverted impulse coasters?

Inverted Impulse Coasters Around the World

Intamin has manufactured several inverted impulse coasters. The model is identical to five other impulse coaster installations at other amusement parks.

Notable inverted impulse coasters include:

- Possessed at Dorney Park (Pennsylvania, USA)
- Steel Venom at Valleyfair (Minnesota, USA) - The only remaining Intamin impulse coaster with an operational holding brake
- Wicked Twister at Cedar Point (Ohio, USA) - A larger version that closed in September 2021
- Other installations at parks around the world

Possessed's Unique Characteristics

Possessed is unique among inverted impulse coasters because of its specific history and relocation. The coaster has been at three different parks under three different names, making it a unique piece of coaster history.

Possessed is also unique because the holding brake is no longer operational. This means the coaster operates with slightly different timing than it did originally, though the experience is still intense.

Intamin and Werner Stengel: The Designers Behind Possessed

Understanding the manufacturer and designer helps explain the innovation behind Possessed.

Intamin: A History of Innovation

Intamin is a Swiss coaster manufacturer founded in 1930. The company is known for innovative and intense coaster designs.

Intamin has designed some of the most iconic coasters in the world, including Kingda Ka, Top Thrill Dragster, and many others. The company is known for pushing the boundaries of coaster design.

The inverted impulse coaster is one of Intamin's most unique designs. The combination of inverted seating and shuttle launches creates a coaster type that's unlike any other.

Werner Stengel: A Legendary Designer

Werner Stengel is a legendary coaster designer who has designed some of the most iconic coasters in the world. Stengel is known for innovative designs that push the boundaries of what's possible in coaster engineering.

Stengel designed Possessed (originally Superman: Ultimate Escape) in collaboration with Intamin. The inverted impulse design is a testament to Stengel's innovative approach to coaster design.

Stengel's designs are known for being intense, innovative, and memorable. Possessed is a perfect example of Stengel's design philosophy.

The Psychology of Inverted Impulse Coasters: Why Are They So Intense?

Inverted impulse coasters like Possessed create a unique psychological experience. Understanding the psychology helps explain why this coaster type is so intense.

The Inverted Seating Position

The inverted seating position creates a sense of vulnerability. Riders are hanging upside down beneath the track with nothing beneath them. This creates a primal fear of falling.

The inverted position is more psychologically intense than traditional seating. Riders feel like they're about to fall, even though they're securely restrained.

The Rapid Directional Changes

Possessed features rapid directional changes. Riders are launched forward, then backward, then forward again. These rapid changes create disorientation and confusion.

The disorientation is intensified by the inverted seating. Riders don't know which direction they're facing or which way is up. This loss of orientation creates psychological fear.

The Intense Launches

The LIM launches are intense and powerful. Riders experience rapid acceleration that creates intense G-forces and psychological fear.

The launches are unpredictable in terms of direction. Riders don't know if they'll be launched forward or backward, which adds to the psychological intensity.

Airtime and Disorientation

Airtime is a critical element of the Possessed experience. Airtime occurs when riders are momentarily lifted out of their seats, creating a sensation of weightlessness. On Possessed, airtime happens multiple times throughout the ride, particularly at the peaks of the vertical spikes.

The inverted seating position intensifies the airtime experience. When riders experience airtime while hanging upside down, the sensation is more intense and disorienting than traditional airtime. Riders feel like they're being pulled away from the track, which creates a sensation of falling or floating.

The disorientation caused by rapid directional changes and airtime is a major part of Possessed's appeal. Riders don't know which direction they'll be facing or which way is up. This loss of spatial awareness creates a thrilling and terrifying experience.

The Braking System and Return to Station

After the final launch, the train gradually slows down as it approaches the station. The braking system uses friction brakes to bring the train to a safe stop.

The braking experience is relatively smooth compared to the intense launches and inversions. Riders are still inverted as the train comes to a stop, which adds to the disorientation.

As the train comes to a complete stop in the station, riders are still hanging upside down. The restraints are released, and riders slowly exit the train, often feeling dizzy and disoriented.

Rider Testimonials and Reactions

Riders of Possessed often describe the experience as intense, disorienting, and unforgettable. Many riders report feeling dizzy and exhilarated after the ride.

Common reactions from riders include:

• "That was insane! I had no idea which way was up."
• "My heart was pounding the entire time."
• "I felt like I was going to fall out of my seat."
• "That was the most intense coaster I've ever ridden."
• "I want to ride again immediately."

The unpredictability of the ride encourages repeat rides. Riders often want to experience the sensation again to better understand what's happening during the ride.

Possessed vs. Wicked Twister: A Comparison

Wicked Twister at Cedar Point was a larger version of the Possessed design. The two coasters shared the same basic inverted impulse mechanism but had some key differences.

Size and Scale

Wicked Twister was significantly larger than Possessed. Wicked Twister featured a height of 215 feet and a speed of 72 mph, compared to Possessed's 115 feet and 55 mph. The larger size made Wicked Twister more intense and intimidating.

Ride Duration

Wicked Twister had a longer ride duration due to its larger size and additional launches. The extended duration meant more time spent inverted and more opportunities for airtime.

Intensity

Due to its larger size and higher speed, Wicked Twister was considered more intense than Possessed. However, both coasters deliver a similar type of experience: intense launches, inversions, and disorientation.

Closure

Wicked Twister closed in September 2021, leaving Possessed as one of the few remaining inverted impulse coasters in North America. The closure of Wicked Twister makes Possessed an even more unique and sought-after ride for coaster enthusiasts.

The Holding Brake: A Feature That's No Longer Operational

The holding brake was one of Possessed's most distinctive features during its early years. The holding brake would engage at the top of the straight vertical spike on the final launch, locking the train in place for a brief moment.

How the Holding Brake Worked

The holding brake created a moment of suspense as riders were held upside down at the top of the spike. The brief pause created anticipation and fear as riders waited to fall backward down the spike.

The holding brake added an extra layer of psychological intensity to the ride. Riders didn't know when the brake would release, creating uncertainty and fear.

Why the Holding Brake Is No Longer Operational

The holding brake is no longer operational on Possessed. The exact reason for the deactivation is unclear, but it's likely due to maintenance issues or operational efficiency.

Valleyfair's Steel Venom is currently the only Intamin impulse coaster in the United States still operating with its holding brake. This makes Steel Venom unique among the remaining impulse coasters.

Impact on the Ride Experience

The deactivation of the holding brake changed the ride experience slightly. Without the holding brake, the ride operates with slightly different timing and pacing. However, the overall intensity and experience remain largely the same.

Possessed's Place in Coaster History

Possessed holds a unique place in roller coaster history. As one of the few remaining inverted impulse coasters, Possessed represents a specific era of coaster innovation and design.

The Inverted Impulse Concept

The inverted impulse concept was relatively new when Superman: Ultimate Escape debuted in 2000. The combination of inverted seating and shuttle launches created a coaster type that was unlike anything else at the time.

The inverted impulse design pushed the boundaries of what was possible in coaster engineering. The design required innovative engineering solutions to safely invert riders while launching them at high speeds.

A Survivor of Multiple Relocations

Possessed's journey from Six Flags Ohio to Geauga Lake to Dorney Park is a testament to the durability and appeal of the design. The coaster has been relocated twice and renamed three times, yet it continues to operate successfully.

The relocation history also reflects the changing landscape of the amusement park industry. The closure of Geauga Lake's amusement park section and the consolidation of Cedar Fair's portfolio meant that rides like Possessed had to be relocated to survive.

A Unique Piece of Coaster Heritage

Possessed carries the legacy of Superman: Ultimate Escape, one of the first inverted impulse coasters. The coaster's history is intertwined with the history of inverted coaster design and the evolution of amusement park attractions.

For coaster enthusiasts, Possessed represents a piece of coaster history that's becoming increasingly rare. As more classic coasters are retired and demolished, Possessed's continued operation makes it a valuable and sought-after ride.

Visiting Possessed: Practical Information for Riders

For those planning to ride Possessed at Dorney Park, here's some practical information to enhance the experience.

Best Times to Ride

Possessed typically has shorter wait times during weekdays and early mornings. Arriving at the park early in the day increases the chances of shorter lines.

During peak season (summer), the ride can have significant wait times. Visiting during off-peak seasons (spring, fall, early winter) generally results in shorter waits.

What to Expect

Riders should expect an intense, disorienting experience. The inverted seating position and rapid directional changes create a unique sensation that's different from traditional coasters.

First-time riders should be prepared for the psychological intensity of hanging upside down. The sensation of vulnerability and the fear of falling are normal reactions.

Safety Considerations

Possessed is a safe ride that's been engineered and tested extensively. The restraint system is designed to keep riders secure throughout the ride.

Riders should follow all safety instructions and ensure that restraints are properly fastened before the ride begins. The ride is not recommended for riders with certain medical conditions, such as heart problems or back injuries.

Physical Requirements

Riders must meet minimum height and health requirements to ride Possessed. Specific height and health requirements should be checked with Dorney Park staff.

Riders should be in reasonable physical health to handle the intense G-forces and disorientation caused by the ride.

The Future of Inverted Impulse Coasters

The future of inverted impulse coasters is uncertain. With the closure of Wicked Twister and the aging of existing installations, the inverted impulse coaster type may become increasingly rare.

Intamin's Design Legacy

Intamin's inverted impulse design was innovative and unique, but it hasn't been widely replicated by other manufacturers. The design requires specific engineering expertise and manufacturing capabilities.

The inverted impulse concept may be revisited by Intamin or other manufacturers in the future, but new installations are unlikely in the near term.

Preservation of Coaster Heritage

As classic coasters are retired and demolished, the preservation of coasters like Possessed becomes increasingly important. These rides represent specific eras of coaster innovation and design.

For coaster enthusiasts and historians, Possessed's continued operation is valuable for understanding the evolution of coaster design and the history of amusement park attractions.

Possessed's Enduring Appeal

Despite its age and the evolution of coaster design, Possessed continues to attract riders and enthusiasts. The unique inverted impulse experience and the coaster's interesting history make it a sought-after ride.

As long as Possessed continues to operate safely and reliably, it will remain an important part of Dorney Park's attraction lineup and a valuable piece of coaster history.