Atlantis vs. Star Trek a toss-up

Friday, Jan. 16, 1998 | 10:48 a.m.

Which is better?

Theme-park aficionados often dodge such questions because asking them to choose the better ride is like asking parents to say which of their children they love more.

There's a lot to like about Ride for Atlantis and many similarities with Star Trek. Start with the themed environments at the gate. The 30-foot statue of Neptune and the centerpiece water feature (both visible from public access at no charge) are striking. So are the models of USS Enterprise, Voyager and the Klingon Bird of Prey at Star Trek.

Atlantis' queue line through the heavens room sets a mood. Filled with fog, sound and visual effects, the room appears to be perched on a cloud and bright fiber-optic cabling and flags throughout the room prepares riders for a voyage into surrealism.

Star Trek's line may hold an edge because of the museum-like quality of that attraction. Fans of the TV series will enjoy seeing all the props, costumes and film clips on display.

The safety warning message is done with a sense of humor at both venues. At Atlantis, Michael Jeter, the nerdy school teacher from "Evening Shade" explains the ride premise in his role as the race guide. At Star Trek, a video urging pregnant women off the ride shows spouses parting ways with the man nonchalantly getting back in line after his partner leaves.

Riders who have sampled both rides say the simulator mechanics on Race for Atlantis seem to be smoother than those of its counterpart at the Las Vegas Hilton.

There's more action and a better story line leading into the simulator at Star Trek, but the 3D film offered at Atlantis features images that appear to jump off the screen and into your lap. It's like being locked inside a giant video game.

The film production studio that put together special effects for Atlantis -- Rhythm & Hues of Culver City, Calif. -- also had that role at Star Trek.

Finally, the price for Atlantis is more conducive to families. If you have Nevada identification, a family of four can get in for $24 or less -- with second rides for $18. Star Trek would cost just under $40 for four.

So which is better? Atlantis gives you a terrific 3D ride experience, Star Trek gives you a franchise and a more realistic immersion experience.

You may not be able to choose.

By Richard N. Velotta