X2 at Six Flags Magic Mountain permanently retires

The distinctive coaster’s retirement comes amid injury lawsuits, with the park citing guest confidence while maintaining that X2 consistently passed safety tests.

2 min read

There will be no farewell rides on X2 at Six Flags Magic Mountain. The California park confirmed its permanent retirement on 29 September, following a closure that began on 12 July.

Originally opened as X in 2002, the attraction introduced the world’s first fourth-dimension roller coaster, with seats rotating through 360 degrees. It returned as X2 in 2008 with new trains and special effects. Those rotating seats helped establish a following that extended well beyond California.

Park president Brian Oerding said X2 had welcomed more than 16 million guests since its 2008 relaunch. In announcing its retirement, he acknowledged its significance to enthusiasts and thanked the employees who operated and maintained it.

The decision follows lawsuits alleging serious brain injuries. PEOPLE reports that lawyers representing claimants say more than 100 riders have alleged traumatic brain injuries over the past two years.

Oerding said X2 consistently passed safety tests, but described retirement as “the right thing to do”, citing the effect on guest confidence. The park’s statement acknowledges those concerns without accepting the allegations about what caused the reported injuries.

The TT Take:

You can be sad to lose a distinctive coaster and still understand the decision to retire it. X2’s legacy deserves recognition, while the serious injury allegations deserve careful attention. Magic Mountain still has plenty of great coasters, and it is too early to judge what this closure means for the park’s wider appeal.

Source: PEOPLE, Associated Press, Entertainment Weekly