Shockwave was designed by Ron Toomer at Arrow Dynamics, and its seven inversions set a new world record among roller coasters previously held by Vortex at Kings Island, which opened a year earlier.

[5] Then in 1990, Viper opened at Six Flags Magic Mountain, becoming the tallest and fastest looping coaster standing 188 feet (57 m) tall and reaching a maximum speed of 70 mph (110 km/h).

Shockwave, Great American Scream Machine, and Viper were all designed by Arrow Dynamics and featured the same inverting elements in the same order.

Due to the speed and stress from the train negotiating the first vertical loop, a welding fracture developed and needed attention on a regular basis in order to remain safe for operation.

[6] A sharp turn located between the third vertical loop and the mid-course brake run was mostly notable, often resulting in unprepared riders smashing their heads on the restraints.

Finally, riders went over a small bunny hill and made a roughly 210-degree turn to the left, entering the long brake run leading to the station.