Overview

Banshee is an inverted steel roller coaster manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M) and located at Kings Island in Mason, Ohio. Introduced to the park in the mid-2010s, Banshee replaced the former wooden coaster Son of Beast and has been marketed as the longest inverted coaster in the world. As an inverted design, the train runs beneath the track with riders' legs dangling, producing a distinct sensation compared with traditional sit-down coasters.

Design and characteristics

The ride follows a large, twisting layout typical of B&M inverted models, combining high, sweeping drops with rapid directional changes and multiple inversion elements. Its design emphasizes smooth transitions and sustained forces rather than jolting motion. The ride experience is enhanced by a theming package and color scheme intended to evoke the supernatural name "Banshee."

Typical features

  • Inverted train configuration with under-track support.
  • A variety of inversion and airtime elements that produce lateral and vertical forces.
  • Theming and sound elements in the queue and station area to support the ride's name and atmosphere.
  • High throughput and train capacity characteristic of modern B&M installations.

History and development

Banshee was installed on land previously occupied by Son of Beast, a large wooden coaster that experienced operational and structural problems before its removal. Kings Island and B&M collaborated on a modern, steel replacement that would appeal to a broad range of guests while showcasing a contemporary inverted coaster experience. Since opening, Banshee has been a headline attraction for the park.

Ride experience and reception

Riders frequently report that Banshee delivers a sustained, intense experience with a mix of speed, inversions and fluid maneuvers. Reviews often praise the smoothness and pacing common to B&M inverteds. The attraction is a staple of the park's lineup and is commonly cited in comparisons of inverted coasters worldwide due to its length and prominence.

Notable distinctions

Banshee's principal distinction is its status as the world's longest inverted roller coaster. Beyond that, its replacement of a controversial former attraction and its role in modernizing the park's coaster roster are often mentioned when discussing Kings Island's development and ride evolution.