At the same time the cast of Viva Elvis™ was getting pink-slipped across town, Boyd Gaming was busting out its new-and-improved version of Mystic Falls, the amusement park centerpiece of Sam’s Town. (Or, to use the official nomenclature, “Mystic Falls Park Sunset Stampede Laser Light & Water Show.”) Upgraded for the first time in 17 years, the renovation might advisedly have extended to include some new versions of the animatronic animals. They’re looking a mite tatty and zombified: scary in not entirely the appropriate way. (Look over right, kids, it’s an irate shareholder!) Boyd boasts that its new laser array offers “more powerful and clearer and projections, while using significantly less wattage.” I can attest to the first part of that statement and applaud Boyd for endeavoring to conserve electricity. We weren’t close enough to see the submersible fountain lights well but there are some impressive 3-D projections as part of the nightly spectacle, along with a new laser on the summit of Mystic Falls Mountain “to project mid-air beam effects throughout the atrium.”
This works as advertised, although making the beams optimally visible necessitates pumping a great deal of smoke into the space. It smells and looks like you’re inside a giant hookah. Also, the 15-minute show is just long enough. Those viewers who are susceptible to migraines probably wouldn’t want to subject themselves to a brilliant laser array any more than that. As for the park itself, it’ll never be Disneyland … but hey, it’s free and makes a nice haven from the surrounding hubbub.
On hand to flip the ceremonial switch were Oscar Goodman and Bill Boyd. Some overzealous technie cued the light show before the actual switch-flipping occurred. Also, Mr. Boyd’s microphone was set at such a height that most of his remarks were inaudible. One wanted to go up and give him a hug, part out of sympathy and partly as thanks for what his family has done for Las Vegas. In an industry dominated by takers, the Boyds are givers.
Inadvisedly, our visit also included dinner at the Firelight Buffet. Glacial service and flavorless food made this a regrettable choice. After giving it several tries, I must include this buffet among the city’s worst. If a big spread you simply must have, best head up the street to Boulder Station and there indulge yourself.
