Six Flags Demon coaster launches virtual reality experience

GURNEE, Ill. (WLS) -- If the twists and turns of a roller coaster are not enough, Six Flags Great America has something new for you.

The Demon was one of the first coasters at the park to go upside down and now it is the first coaster in the world to have virtual reality technology.

The game, called Rage of the Gargoyles, gives riders a mission while they loop 1250 feet in the air.

"We are helicopter pilots, actively fighting off the creatures," Sam Rhodes of Six Flags explained. "Our eyes through the gaming technology act like our weapons, everything we focus on becomes the target."

While on the roller coaster, riders wear a virtual head set to see the game, and use a button on the side of the head set to play.

"Innovation is part of Six Flags' DNA, and this revolutionary VR technology will transform this classic, fan favorite into a cutting-edge thrill," said Hank Salami, park president. "Rage of the Gargoyles VR is the perfect addition to breathe new life into the Demon coaster that has been a part of our arsenal of rides for 40 years."

Demon debuted at the park in 1976 as one of the first coasters in the world to feature a corkscrew maneuver.