A new handheld device has been introduced to give guests more active control over their digital and physical ride experiences.
Developed by the Austrian immersive experience provider Attraktion!, the newly announced Playblaster aims to turn passive audiences into active participants. The device allows players to aim at targets, trigger game functions, and collect points across a variety of attraction formats. Operators can integrate the hardware into existing setups to introduce competition and encourage repeat visits without necessarily altering the primary ride system.
The device incorporates multi-sensory feedback mechanisms to enhance player engagement. These features include a score display, an integrated speaker, programmable LED effects, a vibration module, and a responsive trigger.
It is being made available in two distinct formats to suit different operational needs. Playblaster Link is a wired solution designed for secure, fixed integration into ride vehicles or static seats. Alternatively, Playblaster Air operates entirely on battery power. This wireless version offers up to 10 hours of use without requiring a charge, which facilitates greater freedom of movement for interactive walk-throughs or arena-style games.
Integration and technical specifications
Markus Beyr, CEO of Attraktion!, explained the system’s technical approach. “What makes the system unique is its use of cutting-edge technologies, allowing seamless, low-cost hardware and software integration into any kind of projected or LED environment, from domes and 360-degree venues to individual screens, all using one platform and a single server,” he stated. Beyr added that this integration is “combined with a more precise shooting target system than we have seen to date.”
The hardware is compatible with various attraction formats, such as Circulum 360, standalone arcade games, and custom media environments. Attraktion! is offering the unit not only for its own portfolio but also as a standalone solution for third-party dark ride manufacturers and system integrators who require interactive hardware for external projects.
The Playblaster is already in action on the Angry Birds™ Pigvasion interactive game at the Circulum 360 attraction at Querion in Poland. The experience is based on the popular multimedia franchise from Rovio Entertainment Ltd.
Guests are seated on individually controlled motion platforms arranged across two rotating levels. The experience combines 3DOF motion, platform rotation, special in-room effects, and a fully surrounding 360° media environment powered by a spectacular 10K projection system.
Software compatibility and customisation
For content developers, the system is built to fit into standard interactive workflows. It includes ready-to-use plugins for both Unity and Unreal Engine, allowing the device to connect directly with games and custom applications. The company’s in-house team is also available to develop interactive content, ranging from ready-to-license games to fully tailored experiences based on a venue, brand, or IP.
Furthermore, the physical design of the unit can be customised to match specific creative themes. Instead of a standard shape, the device can be modified into a futuristic blaster, a camera-style controller, a fantasy wand, or another custom object. This flexibility allows the hardware to function as a cohesive prop within the attraction’s narrative.
The launch comes during an active year for Vienna-based Attraktion!, which operates Immersium: Wien and recently received industry shortlistings for its Circulum 360 Interactive and FlyXD formats at the 2026 Park World Excellence Awards.
Industry professionals can view the new hardware at the upcoming IAAPA Expo Europe 2026 in London at booth S2737, for which Attractions Daily is an official media partner.
