UNIVERSAL Studios is building a new ride based on the hit movie Transformers, and Resorts World at Sentosa slated to open in 2010 will be the first in the world to get the new ride.

The ride will debut first in Universal Studios Singapore in early 2011 before opening at the flagship Universal Studios Hollywood in summer.

The cost of this ride will be additonal investment from RWS on top of the $6 billion to build the integrated resort.

The attraction, according to Resorts World at Sentosa, 'will fuse 3D-HD media, mega special effects and stunning robotics with a ride system that will transform perceptions of theme park experiences'.

In Transformers, Earth's humans are caught in the middle of an intergalactic war between the friendly Autobots and the evil Decepticons, which are able to change into a variety of objects, including cars, trucks, planes and other technological creations.

Resorts World at Sentosa chief executive officer Tan Hee Teck, said on Tuesday: 'It is great that Asia will be the launch pad for the first Transformers attraction.'

'Transformers was introduced to the United States in 1983 but traces its roots to Asia. Optimus Prime, Bumblebee and Megatron are familiar names to Asian audiences, who grew up with the robot toys and love the movie.'

'When Transformers opens in Universal Studios Singapore in 2011, it will be the first of its kind in the world. We may see a surge of Transformers mania.''

Mr Tom Williams, chairman and CEO, Universal Parks & Resorts, said: 'Transformers will be a jewel in our collection of world-class rides based on great movies.'

He said the ride will be built with the help of Hasbro, DreamWorks, director Michael Bay and the film's executive producer, Steven Spielberg, who serves as creative consultant to Universal Parks & Resorts and has worked closely with the company in the creation of some of the world?s most innovative theme park attractions.

Those attractions include Jurassic Park ? the Ride, a featured attraction at UP&R parks in Orlando, Hollywood and Japan, the E.T. Adventure at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Japan, and the War of the Worlds sets at Universal Studios Hollywood.