Roaming R2-D2 now testing at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge on both coasts
It appears as though roaming droids in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge could be a possible reality soon, as an R2-D2 unit has been spotted roaming through the lands at both Disneyland and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
As reported by The Orange County Register, the droid is being used in “play tests” as part of an ongoing process that looks at new ways for guests to experience and interact with the Disney Parks. According to Disney officials, though, the experiences being tested may or may not end up as actual theme park offerings.
R2-D2 has been spotted roaming near the entrance of Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run at Disneyland park and around the land at Walt Disney World, based on the photo below:
One of the earliest announced offerings for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge was roaming droids, though they didn’t make it to the final version when the lands opened this year at both resorts. Roaming aliens were also teased in pre-opening footage at D23 Expo 2019, but those didn’t make it to the final product, either. We asked Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Bob Chapek about this earlier this year:
Currently, unless you happen upon one of these tests, you can only interact with Artoo inside Droid Depot at Galaxy’s Edge, and meet BB-8 in Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. These play tests are the droid’s first journey outside of Droid Depot at both parks. According to the Register, the test at Disneyland saw cast members walking alongside Artoo as he made his way around Galaxy’s Edge.
For now, there are no set plans to use these roaming droids in the land at either resort, but it’s certainly a fun sight to see when you’re heading to pilot the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy!
Stay tuned for more updates on these droid play tests as they occur!
I do Firmly believe that the roaming R2 could be a sign that Disney is still going through with their plans to add roaming droids (characters) in GE! and No, I don’t at all mind that a Cast Member is accompanying it. Honestly having a CM with the droids at all times might be for the best since people (kids and grown ups) nowadays can’t keep their hands to themselves. Play tests or not It does seem like Disney wants droids (and hopefully aliens) to be out and about in GE. Fingers Crossed!
I really, really, REALLY thought there would be Aliens wandering around Galaxy’s Edge & working in the shops. It would make the experience much more realistic.
I agree, I’d like to see some Alien characters start popping up later this year (2020). Galaxy’s Edge is still lacking that kinetic energy and interactivity that was promised from the beginning but never came to see the light of day.