The Dämonen Gruft dark ride, themed around demons, has opened at Heide Park in Saltau, Germany.

Demon's crypt

The Dämonen Gruft (Demon’s Crypt) dark ride is set in ancient catacombs, where there have been rumours of people reported missing.

Eight cars, each carrying four guests through the seven scene ride, provide a maximum capacity of 480 passengers per hour. Special effects include scent, temperature, theatrical and SFX lighting, smoke, water spalshes and CO2 sprays.

The park's owners Merlin Entertainments commissioned Alterface to develop the ride.

Stéphane Battaille, CEO of Alterface said: “Merlin Entertainments called upon Alterface to oversee the production of the show and ensure every detail, from lighting and sound to media and special effects, was synchronised. Collaborating closely with Merlin on art direction, we brought their vision to life by recruiting the perfect team to realise the frightening promise of Demon’s Crypt.

“Unlike most loading stations, which are often utilitarian, with Demon’s Crypt boarding is the initial scene. It puts guests into the vehicles and the story right at the beginning. From the start it is scary. Scarier than other dark rides you can find in theme parks.”