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News.com.au
a day ago
- Business
- News.com.au
Inside downfall of iconic Sydney theme park
It was meant to be Sydney's answer to Disneyland – a neon-lit, multi-level temple to gaming glory that promised to bring the future of entertainment Down Under in the late 90s. But by 2000, Sega World had pulled the plug. Now, more than two decades on, former employees have reflected on the ambitious indoor theme park that opened with a bang but quietly fizzled out just a few years later. Sega World Sydney was a short-lived icon of 90s optimism, housed inside Darling Harbour's Pavilion building with a rumoured price tag of over $80 million. Its colourful corridors, virtual reality (VR) simulators, parades and under-18 dance parties were a far cry from Luna Park's rickety charm. Instead, Sega was supposed to be a cutting-edge 'high-tech adventure playground' backed by Sega's global gaming empire. Featuring nine rides and simulators, a bustling food court, live entertainment and over 200 arcade games, it seemed that Sega World had something for everyone – big or small. It was officially launched on March 18 in 1997 by Michael Knight, the Minister at the time responsible for the Sydney Olympic Games and the bustling Darling Harbour precinct. 'They were anticipating huge crowds coming to Sydney and Sega World for the Olympics,' former staff member Andrew said in an interview with Sega fanatic DrScottnik. 'They didn't get they wanted and they weren't making any money,' he added. A big bet that didn't pay off The park was a joint venture between Japanese gaming giant Sega and Sydney Harbour casino developer Jacfun. They poured millions into the project, banking on Olympic tourism and the growing popularity of video games. Instead, ticket sales dwindled despite desperate initiatives such as free entry and free rides. 'We tried various schemes to make people come including free entry, buy passes as you go or buy a ticket at the gate which covered everything. We also tried making games completely free,' said ex-staffer Peter. 'But I guess ultimately, the interest wasn't there.' By early 2000 – just months after the Olympics – Sega had quietly pulled out of the operation, leaving the theme park to gather dust. Not even an auction to sell off the contents of the park in 2001 was able to draw a crowd, with a few hundred-odd punters gathering to pick up arcade games for bargain prices. Jacfun managed to keep the lights on at the site for another three years but by 2003, the dream was officially over. Today, there's little sign that Sega World ever existed at all. Gone, but not forgotten 'I can vividly remember going into the control room and saying, 'Ladies and Gentlemen, boys and girls, Sega world is closed for this evening,' for the very last time,' former manager Jonathon recalled. For many others, Sega World remains a brightly-coloured memory of their childhood. 'My favourite place was shut down for reasons as a kid for reasons that I just couldn't understand,' said ex-visitor Nick. 'It brought us all so much joy and memories. I always remember this as the beginning of the end for that area of the city. For me, the city has never been the same after that,' he said. An online fandom of Sega Sydney lovers still exists, with X accounts dedicated to keeping the memory alive. On eBay, you can even score the iconic Sonic swipe access pass for $277. Many other nostalgic 90s babies weighed in on the clip, sharing their fond memories of the park. 'I went there on my first big Sydney trip. Monorail, aquarium, National Museum and Sega world! Was absolutely ecstatic!,' said one. 'What a nostalgia trip, I think I almost bankrupt my parents by begging to be taken there every school holidays back in the day,' said another. 'I went there as a kid and made friends with another kid after checking out the 3D/4D VR simulation. A few months later he ended up moving away. Fast forward 25 years, he was the best man at my wedding – I'll always have a huge soft spot for Sega World because of that,' shared a third.
The Sun
25-04-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Major car brand makes huge change to flagship motor that will make drivers feel like they're in a SPACESHIP
A MAJOR car brand has made a huge change to its flagship motor that will make drivers feel like they're in a spaceship. A refreshed version of the Mercedes Benz EQS EV limo is set to hit the market next year - but customers may be in for a shock. 3 3 Instead of a traditional steering wheel, the model will come complete with a futuristic "yoke" wheel. Yoke wheels are usually U or T-shaped - rather than circular. And unlike conventional steering wheels, where the driver's hands can be placed anywhere around the circumference, yokes generally have two horizontal grips - a bit like a joystick. In this way, they create a futuristic, techy feel that is also present in many F1 cars. Fans of the 1980s Knight Rider series may equally see similarities between the yoke and the steering unit in Michael Knight's talking car, KITT. Mercedes is not the first brand to introduce a yoke - with Tesla launching its own version in 2021 as part of its Model S and Model X. However, the feature drew criticism from customers for its lack of practical usability. Mercedes is determined to avoid the same mistakes - and has combined the funky shape with a host of snazzy controls for an optimal user-friendly experience. With the merest of hand movements, drivers will be able to access their audio settings, cruise control and hands-free phone operation on two panels in the middle of the wheel. Plus, the model will have what's called a "steer-by-wire" system, meaning the steering wheel and front wheels are connected electronically rather than mechanically. Mercedes reveals its new luxury EV with 'superscreen' passengers can play video games or watch Netflix on while on move The system will automatically know how much angle is required - meaning the driver is never required to fully rotate the yoke. This comes as part of the brand's transition towards self-driving cars. Markus Schäfer, chief technology officer for development and procurement, explained: "Steer-by-wire is another big step towards the mobility of tomorrow, and we're proud that we will be launching such a system in 2026. "The technology enables a unique customer experience that goes far beyond steering alone. "In combination with Level 3 conditionally automated driving, it will enable an even more immersive entertainment experience in the medium term. "That's because the flat steering wheel provides a better view of the display when streaming your favourite show, for example." It comes after the brand gave a sneak peak into its Vision V electric range, which is also set to launch in 2026. The vans will feature plush white leather seats and clear acrylic storage compartments attached to the doors. The cabinets are said to mimic display cabinets in high-end designer stores, and can be used to carry handbags or sunglasses. And, passengers can even separate themselves from the driver with a glass panel, which creates a "private lounge."
Scottish Sun
25-04-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Major car brand makes huge change to flagship motor that will make drivers feel like they're in a SPACESHIP
The quirky feature will emulate the feeling of driving an F1 car OUT OF THIS WORLD OUT OF THIS WORLD Major car brand makes huge change to flagship motor that will make drivers feel like they're in a SPACESHIP Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A MAJOR car brand has made a huge change to its flagship motor that will make drivers feel like they're in a spaceship. A refreshed version of the Mercedes Benz EQS EV limo is set to hit the market next year - but customers may be in for a shock. 3 The new Mercedes EQS EV limo is set to launch next year Credit: Mercedes-Benz AG 3 The yoke has a semi-circular shape with controls placed on two central panels Credit: Mercedes-Benz Instead of a traditional steering wheel, the model will come complete with a futuristic "yoke" wheel. Yoke wheels are usually U or T-shaped - rather than circular. And unlike conventional steering wheels, where the driver's hands can be placed anywhere around the circumference, yokes generally have two horizontal grips - a bit like a joystick. In this way, they create a futuristic, techy feel that is also present in many F1 cars. Fans of the 1980s Knight Rider series may equally see similarities between the yoke and the steering unit in Michael Knight's talking car, KITT. Mercedes is not the first brand to introduce a yoke - with Tesla launching its own version in 2021 as part of its Model S and Model X. However, the feature drew criticism from customers for its lack of practical usability. Mercedes is determined to avoid the same mistakes - and has combined the funky shape with a host of snazzy controls for an optimal user-friendly experience. With the merest of hand movements, drivers will be able to access their audio settings, cruise control and hands-free phone operation on two panels in the middle of the wheel. Plus, the model will have what's called a "steer-by-wire" system, meaning the steering wheel and front wheels are connected electronically rather than mechanically. Mercedes reveals its new luxury EV with 'superscreen' passengers can play video games or watch Netflix on while on move The system will automatically know how much angle is required - meaning the driver is never required to fully rotate the yoke. This comes as part of the brand's transition towards self-driving cars. Markus Schäfer, chief technology officer for development and procurement, explained: "Steer-by-wire is another big step towards the mobility of tomorrow, and we're proud that we will be launching such a system in 2026. "The technology enables a unique customer experience that goes far beyond steering alone. "In combination with Level 3 conditionally automated driving, it will enable an even more immersive entertainment experience in the medium term. "That's because the flat steering wheel provides a better view of the display when streaming your favourite show, for example." It comes after the brand gave a sneak peak into its Vision V electric range, which is also set to launch in 2026. The vans will feature plush white leather seats and clear acrylic storage compartments attached to the doors. The cabinets are said to mimic display cabinets in high-end designer stores, and can be used to carry handbags or sunglasses. And, passengers can even separate themselves from the driver with a glass panel, which creates a "private lounge."
The Irish Sun
25-04-2025
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
Major car brand makes huge change to flagship motor that will make drivers feel like they're in a SPACESHIP
A MAJOR car brand has made a huge change to its flagship motor that will make drivers feel like they're in a spaceship. A refreshed version of the Mercedes Benz EQS EV limo is set to hit the market next year - but customers may be in for a shock. 3 The new Mercedes EQS EV limo is set to launch next year Credit: Mercedes-Benz AG 3 The yoke has a semi-circular shape with controls placed on two central panels Credit: Mercedes-Benz Instead of a traditional steering wheel, the model will come complete with a futuristic "yoke" wheel. Yoke wheels are usually U or T-shaped - rather than circular. And unlike conventional steering wheels, where the driver's hands can be placed anywhere around the circumference, yokes generally have two horizontal grips - a bit like a joystick. In this way, they create a futuristic, techy feel that is also present in many F1 cars. read more motors news Fans of the 1980s Knight Rider series may equally see similarities between the yoke and the steering unit in Michael Knight's talking car, KITT. Mercedes is not the first brand to introduce a yoke - with Tesla launching its own version in 2021 as part of its Model S and Model X. However, the feature drew criticism from customers for its lack of practical usability. Mercedes is determined to avoid the same mistakes - and has combined the funky shape with a host of snazzy controls for an optimal user-friendly experience. Most read in Motors With the merest of hand movements, drivers will be able to access their audio settings, cruise control and hands-free phone operation on two panels in the middle of the wheel. Plus, the model will have what's called a "steer-by-wire" system, meaning the steering wheel and front wheels are connected electronically rather than mechanically. Mercedes reveals its new luxury EV with 'superscreen' passengers can play video games or watch Netflix on while on move The system will automatically know how much angle is required - meaning the driver is never required to fully rotate the yoke. This comes as part of the brand's transition towards self-driving cars. Markus Schäfer, chief technology officer for development and procurement, explained: "Steer-by-wire is another big step towards the mobility of tomorrow, and we're proud that we will be launching such a system in 2026. "The technology enables a unique customer experience that goes far beyond steering alone. "In combination with Level 3 conditionally automated driving, it will enable an even more immersive entertainment experience in the medium term. "That's because the flat steering wheel provides a better view of the display when streaming your favourite show, for example." It comes after the brand gave a The vans will feature plush white leather seats and clear acrylic storage compartments attached to the doors. The cabinets are said to mimic display cabinets in high-end designer stores, and can be used to carry handbags or sunglasses. And, passengers can even separate themselves from the driver with a glass panel, which creates a "private lounge." 3 The yoke gives customers a futuristic experience Credit: Mercedes-Benz
Daily Mail
24-04-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mail
Mercedes to replace steering wheel with futuristic spaceship-like yoke for its latest EV
Forget about going woke; Mercedes-Benz is going yoke... The German car giant will soon fit half-size steering wheels to its flagship electric vehicle, making owners feel like they're at the controls of a spaceship rather than a family car. It is not the first brand to offer the futuristic controls instead of a traditional wheel. Tesla made its yoke available for Model S and Model X customers from 2021. However, the move was hugely criticised for a combination of practical usability issues and limited customer demand. Mercedes believes its system won't succumb to the same fate as its US rival, though. That's because its engineers have combined it with a new electronic steering setup - but is it a case of fixing something that wasn't broken in the first place? A yoke steering wheel is a non-circular steering control, often resembling a joystick or aircraft control wheel, with a U or T-shaped design. For those of a certain vintage, it should remind you of the steering wheel in the popular 1980s series Knight Rider featuring David Hasselhoff as Michael Knight with his talking car, KITT, which had a similarly minimal steering unit. F1 steering wheels are also a similar shape. Mercedes-Benz will make its controversial cut-down version available for its heavily updated EQS EV limo, which is due to arrive in 2026. The traditional wheel centre with the Mercedes emblem, airbag unit and horn is the contrasted by an almost rectangular wheel, with a bowed bottom section and not upper loop at all. Controls for the audio settings, cruise control, hands-free phone operation and more are located across two panels - as with a modern conventional wheel - though the shape of the rim provides only enough room for the hands to be placed at 9 and 3 o'clock positions. The futuristic half wheel is attached to an all-new 'steer-by-wire' system as Mercedes becomes the first German brand to introduce an electronic-only steering setup. It is part of the company's move towards 'Level 3' automation: this is the self-driving stage that allows driving-assistance features in a vehicle to handle most tasks under specific conditions - such as speed and steering during slow-moving motorway traffic - though the human driver must be ready to take over the system at request. Steer-by-wire adjusts the weight, speed and feedback of the steering depending on the how fast the car is moving and the turning angle required. It does so using a combination of electronics, sensors and small motor at the base of the steering wheel. Steer-by-wire adjusts the weight, speed and feedback of the steering depending on the how fast the car is moving and the turning angle required This allows the system to calculate how much steering angle is required and recalibrates the rack so the driver never needs to fully rotate the yoke. For example, when carrying out low speed manoeuvres - think three-point turns and parallel parking - the system adjusts so the car's wheels can turn from lock-to-lock with as little as a half turn of the cutaway steering wheel. As such, there's no need for full rotations, which would typically require the driver to handle an entirely circular wheel rim and spin the wheel quickly. Later in the same journey, when the owner takes the car on a fast flowing scenic drive, the steering setup adjusts so the same amount of rotations in the wheel allow for smooth, controlled changes of direction. This lack of adjustability was the flaw with Tesla's yoke introduced almost half a decade ago. Tesla linked the bold steering wheel shape to a traditional mechanical system with a fixed steering ratio, causing a practicality headache for users who were left clutching for a wheel rim as they frantically tried to spin the yoke fast enough to change direction at low speeds. The US brand has since introduced a steer-by-wire setup for Cybertruck, though a yoke wheel is not available for its largest and most expensive vehicle. Mercedes says its system's flexibility not only improves the steering dynamics and ease of use; it will give drivers a better view of Netflix when on the move too. 'Steer-by-wire is another big step towards the mobility of tomorrow, and we're proud that we will be launching such a system in 2026,' explained Markus Schäfer, chief technology officer for development and procurement. 'The technology enables a unique customer experience that goes far beyond steering alone. In combination with Level 3 conditionally automated driving, it will enable an even more immersive entertainment experience in the medium term. 'That's because the flat steering wheel provides a better view of the display when streaming your favourite show, for example.' There have been concerns raised about steer-by-wire systems over concerns that any gremlins in the electronics could leave drivers exposed with no control over their vehicles Safety concerns Where concerns have previously been raised with steer-by-wire systems is safety, especially if there are electrical gremlins that trigger it to stop operating as it should - potentially leaving drivers out of control. Mercedes says it has combated this with its own fail safes developed while covering over one million kilometres (621,000 miles) in lab tests and another million km racked up at proving grounds. Its steer-by-wire setup 'relies on a redundant system architecture in addition to high-precision sensors and high-performance control units,' it explained. 'This means that there are basically two signal paths and thus twice the number of actuators required, as well as a redundant on-board data and power supply. This always ensures steering ability. 'Even in the most unlikely event of a complete failure, lateral guidance is still possible thanks to rear-axle steering and targeted wheel-specific braking interventions via ESP [Electronic Stability Program].' Are yoke steering wheels legal? When Tesla introduced its yoke wheel for the Model S and X, the Department for Transport was pushed to provide clarification about its legality in the UK. In an official statement, it said: 'The regulations relating to steering equipment (UN-ECE Regulation 79) does not stipulate any shape or size of the steering wheel.' It means a car's steering controls can be pretty much anything, from a wheel to joystick or handlebars. It is considered legal as long as it can be used to maintain control of the vehicle and meet UK MOT standards for excessive play or movement. Another complaint with steer-by-wire is that it lacks the consistency of steering feel, with the amount of input forever changing depending on the speed travelled and driving conditions. Toyota and its luxury subsidiary Lexus (with its RZ model also being developed with a yoke) are also in the midst of developing their own system, while Infiniti (owned by Nissan) became the first mainstream maker to provide steer-by-wire in 2014 in the Q50 saloon. However, because this had a back-up mechanical steering arrangement, it was rendered pointless. The facelifted Mercedes EQS, which should come with an increased driving range, is due to debut the technology when it arrives in showrooms next year. The current version costs from £99,845 in the UK, but expect the additional technology to push the entry price above the six-figure mark.
