Change My Mind: Journey into Imagination with Figment is BETTER than Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

Put away your Element Guns and hear me out. It may sound ridiculous. I may sound crazy. But oh well. I have searched the universe for years, and I will stand by my claim concerning these attractions at the Walt Disney World Resort and back it up with the following…

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Story

Admittedly, the story behind Journey into Imagination with Figment at the Imagination pavilion could be stronger. You explore the senses and visit Figment’s house. However, at least it has a story. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind relies so much on its ride experience and intellectual property that the plot behind the ride itself is rushed, confusing, and doesn’t make much sense. There’s a Xandar Pavilion on Earth…at EPCOT? And for some reason a new villain shows up and plans to go back in time to destroy the universe? Because…reasons? And we will help the Guardians stop him by spinning around in circles and listening to some classic rock music?

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The Queue

As you wait in line for Journey into Imagination with Figment, you are treated to the inner workings of the Imagination Institute with throwbacks to older Disney films such as Flubber (1997) and Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989). In addition, you have a minor pre-show and are treated to a little spark of imagination. And thankfully, because the ride is so unpopular, you can usually walk right on, allowing you to enjoy more rides, shows, and attractions at the theme Park.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind requires you to fumble around with a virtual queue or purchase an Individual Lightning Lane, adding the cost to your Disney Park admission. Despite some of the more thrilling parts of the ride, it will cost you over an hour wait (even with a virtual queue) or $20 per person (give or take).

Longevity

Journey into Imagination with Figment is not tied to any intellectual property. It is simply a fun romp with Figment using unique props and special ride effects. Like Spaceship Earth or even the Haunted Mansion at Magic Kingdom, its lack of being tied to a specific TV show or movie makes it timeless (if even renovated).

Meanwhile, the Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind ride is tied to the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the Avengers films. Although that isn’t inherently bad, it will allow the attraction to potentially age quickly as it references elements of pop culture that have already begun to fall in popularity (the past few MCU films have not done well). This is why once-popular attractions such as Muppet Vision 3D and Dinosaur (both based on once viable properties) are frequently on Guests’ lists of most-skipped attractions.

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Ride Experience

This one may be the most controversial of all the reasons on this list. Yes, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind offers a fun rollercoaster in the dark, but it’s not that original of a concept. It’s just like Tron, Rock n Roller Coaster, and Space Mountain with similar thrills, drops, and banks similar to other Walt Disney World coasters. However, Journey into Imagination with Figment is unlike anything at EPCOT, Magic Kingdom Park, Hollywood Studios, or Animal Kingdom. Sure, it may be less exciting since it’s not a spinning roller coaster. But then again, not everyone likes roller coasters, and not everyone can enjoy them.

Disneyland (and Walt Disney World) were built on the premise that a theme Park could be enjoyed together by all members of a family. And no toddler, grandparent, or person with a disability will be riding Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. And isn’t that why families come to Disney World? To spend time together?

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Anyway, I welcome any and all to change my mind as I know this opinion may not be the most popular!

Disclaimer: This article was originally written by Dr. Nigel Channing of the Imagination Institute. His views do not necessarily reflect those of DisneyDining.com or its staff of writers.