'Sup, Tad here, reporting on one of the coolest rides in Tomorrowland: Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin. And big news, everyone — this fan-favorite ride has officially reopened after several months of refurbishment! It now features upgraded ride vehicles, including new handheld blasters, interactive targets and even a new robot character called Buddy. From explaining the scoring system to sharing my top tips for the new high-value targets, I've got all the deets. To infinity and beyond!
What Is Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin?
Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin is a slow-moving dark ride located inside Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom. Based on the movie "Toy Story 2," it opened at the park in November 1998, replacing Take Flight.
But enough about the history! What do you need to know about the ride?
Simply put: The ride itself is cool — and a ton of fun! Once aboard your XP-37 (aka your ride vehicle), you'll fire laser blasters at various Z targets throughout the ride in the ultimate face-off between you and the Evil Emperor Zurg. These static targets are circles with a big letter "Z" in the middle.
The ride takes you through several scenes where you'll be "shooting" at targets on robots, aliens … and even galactic spiders! The final scene (or final boss, rather) is Evil Emperor Zurg! Be sure to smile … or make a silly face here — this is where the on-ride photo is taken.
In total, the ride is about five minutes.
Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin Scores
I love seeing how high my score can go! So, if you're like me, here's what you need to know.
Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin has seven levels/rankings. The points you accumulated throughout the ride determine your ranking:
- Star Cadet: 0 - 1,000 points
- Space Ace: 1,001 - 10,000 points
- Planetary Pilot: 10,001 - 100,000 points
- Space Scout: 100,001 - 300,000 points
- Ranger 1st Class: 300,001 - 600,000 points
- Cosmic Commando: 600,001 - 999,999 points
- Galactic Hero: 1,000,000+ points (you can now score over 1 million points!)
I won't spill all the details, but if you want to boost your score, aim for the Z targets that are further away. Rule of thumb: If the Z target looks impossible to reach, it's usually because it's worth the most points.
The original secret high-value targets remain, with some new ones to find too. Their value has decreased, but the new blasters make them easier to hit, and they can still rack up points quickly.
Keep an eye out for new white and rainbow targets, as they are worth more points. There's also a score bonus that is distributed based on the number of distinct targets you hit throughout the game. It won't push you into Galactic Hero, but it can definitely give you a boost at the end!
Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin's Newest Updates
Upgraded Ride Vehicles
The current star cruisers have been reimagined and debuted new colors inspired by Buzz Lightyear and Star Command. They also have video monitors to see your score build in real time. Awesome!
Handheld Blasters
In the previous iteration of the ride, the laser blasters were attached to the actual ride vehicle. These new upgrades are now handheld, helping guests aim anywhere!
Also, the blasters have two different laser colors per ride vehicle. The left side shoots red, while the right side shoots green. Your laser is always on, so you know exactly where you're aiming. These blasters also have lighting, sounds and vibrations when you hit your target, enhancing your experience.
Interactive Targets
And speaking of those targets, they are also enhanced! When you aim your laser at the Z targets throughout the ride, they now light up when hit, and they're easier to see. Lily, it's on!
A Brand-New Scene
Perhaps one of the most exciting announcements is that the ride will debut a brand-new scene featuring Buddy! Who is Buddy, you ask? Well, he's your support bot that helps you prep for your mission!
As you venture from scene to scene, Buddy will encourage you and ensure you're fully prepared to take on Evil Emperor Zurg!
FAQs About Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin
Have additional questions about this Tomorrowland ride? I've got you covered!
Does Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin … Spin?
Yes, but it doesn't have to. Each ride vehicle is equipped with a joystick that controls the ride vehicle. However, if you don't want to use it, you don't have to. This is an omnimover ride, so the track goes in one direction. It's similar to Haunted Mansion.
Does Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin Go Outside?
No, the ride itself does not go outside. However, part of the queue does, so pack some sunglasses and water to stay hydrated.
Is This Ride Accessible?
Disney's Disability Access Pass —or DAS — is a service offered to guests who may need extra assistance. Typically, it is reserved for guests who cannot wait in a traditional standby line. Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin can accommodate guests with a DAS.
The ride also offers other accommodations, including audio description and handheld captioning. Guests in a wheelchair must transfer to the ride vehicle. For more information, check out our blog post, Full List of Disability Access for Disney World Attractions.
Is Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin Suitable for All Ages?
Disney's website lists this ride as suitable for all heights and ages. However, tadpoles 7 and under must be accompanied by a guest 14 years or older.
Is This Attraction Eligible for Lightning Lane?
Yes, it is eligible for Lightning Lane Multi Pass as a "Tier 2" ride. When you initially book Lightning Lane Multi Pass, you can select one "Tier 1" ride and two "Tier 2" rides (or just three "Tier 2 rides) — learn more here. This paid system allows expedited access for eligible attractions at the Disney parks by making ride reservations through the My Disney Experience app.
Can I Ride Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin During Early Theme Park Entry?
Yes! Since Tomorrowland is open during Early Theme Park Entry, you can ride this and earn that coveted high score! Want to learn more about this benefit for Disney Resort hotel guests? Hop over to our Early Theme Park Entry guide.
Tips for Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin
Here are my top tips for riding Space Ranger Spin:
- Take advantage of Early Theme Park Entry.
- Do not tap the trigger — hold it down the entire ride. Use your second hand to stabilize the blaster. So one hand holds the trigger while the other keeps your aim steady. Less shaking means more consistent hits!
- Look for targets with a white pulsing ring, as these are made to stand out and are worth double the points. They appear randomly so keep a close eye out.
- When you see a rainbow target, hit it immediately! It activates a quick bonus mode for everyone. It also appears randomly and only in one location at a time for a few seconds before it vanishes and goes somewhere else.
- Smile for the on-ride photo (where Zurg is!).
- Ride early, at night or during the parade. It's busiest in the middle of the day!
Frogs of all ages will love this fun galactic adventure! I love seeing what score I can get, while Mommy Frog loves buying the on-ride photo with Disney PhotoPass as a souvenir.
Have you ever reached Galactic Hero status? Let me know in the comments!
Related: Your Guide to Magic Kingdom Lightning Lane Options and Tiers
Related: Guide to Toy Story Land at Disney World
Stay cool!
