Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at the Magic Kingdom has reopened after an eight-month renovation, introducing a new robot character, Buddy and updated ride vehicles with upgraded blasters and interactive targets. These improvements, featuring onboard video screens and dynamic scoring, coincide with the upcoming release of Toy Story 5, ensuring that the favorite attraction continues to be an exciting experience for guests.

Few things capture the joy of childhood like climbing into a Star Cruiser, playing with Barbie dolls, having the best Beyblade battles, collecting Toy Story toys, and zapping Zerg’s minions at Disney World.And finally, after eight long months behind the scenes, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger spin is returning to Tomorrowland, reminding us why the Disney attraction feels like stepping into a dream.

What is Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger spin?

Disney World’s Tomorrowland just got a big boost. On April 8, 2026, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at the Magic Kingdom opened its doors after an eight-month renovation scheduled to begin in August 2025.Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is an interactive dark ride in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom in Tomorrowland. Riders hope to spin the star cruiser, fire blasters, and snarl at glowing Zerg targets to rack up points and defeat Toy Story’s evil emperor.

Photo: Disney.com

And the most interesting big star about it is a brand new friendly robot named Buddy, created by Walt Disney Imagineering and Pixar Animation Studios.According to the Disney Parks Blog, he appears in an additional scene to train the Space Rangers in the practice area before the action begins.

Ride vehicles also got a new look inspired by Toy Story

Star cruisers now have onboard video screens that show live scores and other fun details. Handheld blasters have also been improved for better accuracy. “With always-on lasers, two different blaster colors per star cruiser, and new light, sound, and vibration effects, players can clearly see where they are aiming, if their aim is accurate, and when they reach the target,” the blog explains.Targets are now more dynamic: previously static Zerg icons glow and react when hit, adding extra excitement.

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spring at Disney World (Credit: Abigail Nilsson/Disney)

Guests can now capture their score and rank in a new PhotoPass photo for the first time, as highlighted by the Disney Parks Blog.

The attraction first opened in November 1998, and these new updates come just before the theatrical release of Toy Story 5 on June 19. The film brings back Buzz, Woody, Jessie and the crew as they confront children’s growing obsession with gadgets.Fans immediately returned, with long lines forming on opening day itself. These enhancements keep over 25-year-old favorites feeling fresh, blending classic charm with modern technology.