Epic Universe's Super Nintendo World Sparks Madness Reminiscent of a Nutty Theme Park
Universal Studios and Nintendo's Epic Collaboration: Epic Universe Donkey Kong Country Arrives with a Twist
Get ready for an exhilarating Nintendo ride in Universal Studios Orlando! As Super Nintendo World opens its doors at Epic Universe this week, it introduces a transformative Donkey Kong Country expansion. And buckle up, because it's not just about Mario Kart anymore—King Kong makes his grand entrance!
io9 was present at the media week preview for Epic Universe, Orlando's new amazing world. Even though its West Coast counterpart launched Super Nintendo World in 2023, the Orlando park promises a whole new gaming experience with its Donkey Kong Country twist. Stepping up the game is the thrilling Mine Cart Madness ride, featuring Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong, and inspired by the iconic game series.
According to Universal Creative Director Steve Tatham, the goal of Epic Universe is to create a 21st-century theme park with state-of-the-art technology and mind-blowing figures. Tatham explained that although technology plays a vital role, it's the storyline that's paramount. Super Nintendo World invites you to embark on a thrilling, emotional journey through the magic of gaming, without being overwhelmed by screens.
The park encourages participation, fostering a sense of community as visitors collaboratively play, compete, and explore to discover hidden treasures. With a Power Up Band, players can engage in a real-world experience, earning points by collecting objects and unlocking secrets. Achieve enough points, and you'll encounter a hidden boss battle, a staple of any video game experience.
From its welcoming accessibility to its immersive gamification, Super Nintendo World at Epic Universe embodies Nintendo's essence. Every piece of the park has been designed in collaboration with Nintendo partners and Miyamoto-San, ensuring authenticity at every turn.
While the focus is currently on Donkey Kong Country, co-creative director Tatham hinted at Universal's plans for future expansions, maintaining, "Epic Universe will never be done, because there’s always more ideas." Is this the entertaining prelude to futurecontains popular Nintendo franchises like Zelda or Star Fox? Only time will tell!
Prepare to embark on an unforgettable gaming adventure in Orlando—Super Nintendo World at Epic Universe opens this Friday. Travel and accommodations were provided for this inspiring review.
Looking for more io9 news? Discover when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what's next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.
Gizmodo, too, reports on the upcoming expansion at Super Nintendo World in Universal Studios Orlando, anticipating potential appearances of popular franchises like Zelda and Star Fox in future expansions, as hinted by the co-creative director. Lastly, io9 recommends keeping tabs on the latest movie, TV, and pop culture updates, including Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, and Doctor Who, to stay in the loop about future developments at Epic Universe.
