MAMEWorld Forums - The Loony Bin - Rant: Separating the Classes (aka Perks for Rich People)

As the summer approaches, I'm checking to see what new amusement rides are planned for the season and pricing changes. Most of what's out there any more are the big corporate parks. The nearest one is also the busiest, biggest and has the most large rides and coasters. It's a Six Flags franchise. But then there's the pricing. Check this out.

Regular Parking: $20
Premium Parking: $30 (closer to entrance, they started this a couple years ago. all they did was put up a barrier and charge more. early birds used to park there, now it's just for those willing to pay more)

Adult Admission: $61.99 (might as well get a season pass, it's only $30 more)

And here's where it really gets sickening.
THE FLASH PASS.

Why wait in line like all the poor people?
Your time is precious. Spend it doing other things and we'll page you when it's almost your turn to ride! This is just for the main rollercoasters, mostly. But it gets even better.

Regular Flash Pass: $45 (you still wait the full time, just not in line with awful poor people)
Flash Pass GOLD: $80 (significantly reduced wait time)
Flash Pass PLATINUM: $120 (90% reduced wait time, PLUS you can re-ride a second time, unlike people who don't pay all this money)

So essentially, bribing the park gets

Another thing is Flash Pass holders get first dibs on seating before the gates open for the general chum of humanity. So if you've been waiting for that front seat, chances are your wait times are now 90% longer, because it'll keep getting "stolen" away from you. From having experienced this first hand, it is very frustrating and causes anger. And I rarely get angry!

Oh and then for $299, you can get VIP access. Get on any ride instantly. The ultimate in preferred treatment, at a price.

I'll be going to a much smaller park called KNOEBELS instead, I think.

Free parking
Free Admission
Real food cooked by little old ladies
Rides are $1.50-$2.00ea
Two cool haunted house rides
Picnic groves (bring your own food!)
Classic bumper cars (they're... bumpier)

I guess I'm wondering if anyone else is disgusted by this stuff. Money makes the world go round and all, but to blatantly shit on your regular customers by offering extra privileges over the standard park-goer for an extra price really takes the cake. I don't think a ton of people buy these Flash passes, but enough to make me scowl and get all onry like the old bastard I am.