There are tons of different strategies we use when we go to Disney World! We have our rope drop plans, snack guides, entertainment plans, and more, because without a plan, you’re going to miss out on something.
Magic Kingdom
In Magic Kingdom, there are lots of different ways to plan and structure your day. One thing we even plan for is how to “win” on popular rides in the park, but in 2026, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin will need a brand-new ride strategy.
In case you missed it, Buzz Lightyear is getting a major makeover in Magic Kingdom! The shooting-style ride closed in August 2025 for a year-long refurbishment.
It’s closed!
There are lots of changes hitting the popular ride like a new scene at the beginning of your journey through space. The new scene will introduce us to “Buddy,” the friendly robot! He will make sure you’re prepared for your mission. During this new scene, you will be able to see some of the new, interactive target features.
©Disney
The ride vehicles are also getting a facelift thanks to a new design with colors inspired by Buzz, and the blasters will be updated so you can actually pick them up! Each vehicle will also have video monitors that provide real-time scoring updates and other features. The new blasters will now include an always-on laser and come in two different colors.
©Disney
The ride will also have new Z targets that will feature new technology that will allow them to react and light up when hit. So now we won’t have to guess if we’re hitting the right target! Disney has shared some behind-the-scenes videos and pictures so we know what to expect.
©Disney
These changes are all super exciting, and several fans felt they were long overdue, but what do these have to do with ride strategy? Well, if you’re competitive like us, becoming a galactic hero might be more difficult! If you don’t know, becoming a galactic hero was the ultimate way to “win” this ride because it meant you scored 999,999 points and couldn’t score anymore. It’s the highest rank you can earn at Star Command!
New ride vehicle for Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin
In the past, we had the key to becoming a galactic hero down to a science. Throughout each room, there were specific targets to hit for the maximum amount of points. In room 1, the robots on the left had a target on each hand. If you shot the left, as it was worth 100,000 points. The Claw on the ceiling on the right side of that room was another 100,000-point target!
Shoot the target in the left hand OVER AND OVER!
In the second room, the volcano had 2 targets on it. If you hit the top target, it was worth 50,000 points and made the volcano erupt!
Aim for the top target!
The last big point target was Zurg himself. It was located on the right side of the room, directly under him for the word “Pitiful” — there’s a target just under it, and it was worth 100,000 points.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin before the refurbishment
Becoming a galactic hero was actually one of the best parts about this ride for it! It gave us bragging rights and fed our competitive souls in ways we couldn’t imagine. We would be shocked if Disney removed this element of the attraction since it is such a popular feature.
Galactic hero!
We won’t know what our new strategy will look like until the ride reopens sometime in 2026. That doesn’t mean we can’t try to anticipate what it will be! Over in Disneyland, their version of this attraction was updated several years ago, and it looks similar to what Disney has shown us regarding the new changes.
Astro Blasters in Disneyland
In Disneyland, the different types of targets are worth different amounts. There are also several hidden targets, like one on Zurg’s chest in a few of the scenes. It also gives you 100 points every time you pull the trigger 5 times without hitting something as a “way to keep trying” bonus. Fun fact, on Astro Blasters, you can actually find out your exact score even past 999,999 if you go check out your ride photo.
Galactic Hero
We won’t know for certain if Disney World’s version of the galactic hero until Disney shows us more or we ride the new attraction next year. This ride strategy will be of the utmost importance once the ride opens, so be sure to keep following DFB for all of our tips, tricks, and strategies for your Disney vacation!
The Disney World Changes We’re DREADING in 2026
Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!
WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Have you ever become a Galactic Hero? Tell us in the comments!
Our handy (and portable!) ebook guides make sure you get the best deals and can plan a vacation of a lifetime.
We are a family of 3 and our son likes to be the single rider. He gets the highest score of 999,999 and then slides to the other side and uses the other blaster to get 999,999 on that one too!