
After months of downtime, a major special effect on Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at Disneyland Park has finally returned. As of this morning, the moving and firing cannons aboard the attraction’s First Order Star Destroyer are fully operational once again, Disneyland officials confirmed.
Related: Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance – What You Need to Know About This New Ride!
A Long-Awaited Fix
Rise of the Resistance, one of Disney’s most technologically advanced rides, debuted at Disneyland in January 2020 as part of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. The ride, which combines trackless vehicles, massive physical sets, animatronics, and projection mapping, places guests in the middle of an intense battle between the Resistance and the First Order.
One of the most dynamic moments occurs in a hallway lined with massive turbo laser cannons, which move and fire as guests race through the enemy warship.
However, in recent months, guests noticed that the cannons had stopped moving, reducing the intensity of the ride’s climactic chase scene. While the attraction continued operating without the effect, longtime fans of the ride pointed out that the missing movement made the scene feel noticeably less immersive.
Now, after extended maintenance and behind-the-scenes work, the cannons are back to their full firing glory, enhancing the ride’s battle sequence and restoring the sense of chaos that Imagineers originally intended.
The Challenges of High-Tech Theme Park Rides
Rise of the Resistance is widely regarded as one of Disney’s most ambitious theme park attractions, but its complexity has led to frequent breakdowns and ongoing maintenance challenges. The blend of multiple ride systems, including a trackless dark ride, a motion simulator, and an elaborate drop sequence, makes it one of the most intricate attractions Disney has ever created.
While Disney has not disclosed the exact reasons behind the cannon effect’s prolonged downtime, similar issues in the past suggest technical and mechanical wear and tear may have played a role. The large-scale motion of the cannons, combined with precise timing and effects synchronization, likely required extensive troubleshooting and recalibration to restore.
NEW: The cannons on Rise of the Resistance at Disneyland Park are moving and firing again. BOOM. pic.twitter.com/ICxiwzvrT6
— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) January 31, 2025
A Win for Disneyland Guests
For Disneyland visitors, the return of the firing cannons marks a welcome improvement to Rise of the Resistance, which continues to be one of the most popular attractions at the park. The update is also a positive sign that Disney remains committed to maintaining and enhancing guest-favorite experiences, ensuring they operate as intended.
With the cannons once again firing on all cylinders, guests can now experience Rise of the Resistance in its full immersive glory. Whether it’s a first-time rider or a returning Star Wars fan, the attraction’s battle sequence is now more thrilling than ever, making a trip to Galaxy’s Edge even more exciting.
For those planning to ride, expect high demand, as Rise of the Resistance remains one of Disneyland’s most in-demand attractions. Be sure to check the Disneyland app for wait times and availability, and prepare for a fully operational battle against the First Order!