Summary:

Realm of Terror:

The Realm of Terror house was quite different from last year.   They kept some of the more memorable scenes from the previous season, in addition to adding some new scenes this year.  While a number of scenes remained the same, they added a lot more detail to them.  One of the scenes was a study, with an easy chair, bookcases and an old console stereo with a skull spinning around on the turntable.  There was also eerie lighting, a lot of cobwebs and a nice music soundtrack.  In the nursery, a possessed baby floated up out of it's crib.  Be sure to watch out for the bathroom scene.  They had a water cannon in there that can result in a damp pant leg, if you aren't careful.  I also liked the attic scene, with the green light shining in through the boards in the ceiling and the torture chamber scene that featured a girl chained up to the wall.   And of course I can't forget to mention everyone's favorite, the spinning vortex tunnel.  

I did have mixed feelings on the actors, though.  Most of them knew their roles well and followed through by staying in character.  Their attacks were on target and effective; however, there were some actors who seemed unsure of their roles and just stood there.  Overall, most of the actors were in appropriate costumes and make-up.  

X-Chaos:

This was an open-air, outdoor event.  Basically, it was built out of fence walls, laid out in a zig-zag pattern.  Throughout the attraction there were a few props, but a lot of areas seemed rather empty, with wide pathways.  I think that narrower walkways would have fostered more of a claustrophobic feeling.  While you were walking through, there were a couple of actors popping out at you, through the other side of the fence.  Unfortunately scares were only moderately effective, as the wide paths gave you plenty of room to move away from their attacks.   X-Chaos was the most family-friendly of the two attractions.

The Realm of Terror is Located behind Kristof's Entertainment Center.  After visiting the Haunted House, you can check out a number of great activities that they have to offer (Bowling, Mini-Golf, Go-Karting, Batting Cages, and more).  Kudos to the Realm of Terror.  They made a lot of nice changes to the "Realm of Terror" house since last year.  Even with all the changes, I'm not sure that warranted almost doubling their admission, compared to last year's ticket price of $8.   Either way, it was an enjoyable experience and definitely worth checking out. 

Click here to find out more about this event.