Epic Universe's Super Nintendo World Unquestionably MMad, Over-The-Top Insane!
Universal Studios and Nintendo's Epic Union Unveiled: A Gaming-Themed Metamorphosis
Universal Studios and gaming titan Nintendo's partnership took a giant leap this week with the unveiling of Super Nintendo World at Universal Orlando's Epic Universe, boasting a greater Kong and a Donkey Kong Country expansion. Here's the dirt on the new gaming paradise.
We were lucky enough to score an invite to the media preview for Epic Universe's Super Nintendo World, and holy moly, it was a mind-blowing ride (no pun intended). Although the West Coast park got a taste of the land in 2023, Epic Universe amps it up with an extra-awesome Donkey Kong Country area, complete with a fresh Mine Cart Madness ride. Just like its predecessor, it's more than just sitting back and watching; you get to play, Mario Kart-style. Steve Tatham, Universal's Creative Director, gushed about the new tech-driven theme park experience, "The idea of Epic Universe is to create a next-level theme park, a 21st-century theme park" he said. "We're leveraging super-advanced technology, state-of-the-art ride systems, and badass animated figures[1]", he explained about the whiz-bang technology powering some of Epic Universe's most groundbreaking experiences.
One of the standout highlights? Donkey Kong Country's exclusive Mine Cart Madness ride, where you'll ride shotgun with none other than the legendary Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong in scenes straight out of the classic game. The ride's tech is off the charts, and it's nothing short of a blurry kong-gratulation to Nintendo for executing it so darn well!
Tatham elaborated, "It's all about the tech, but the tech never overshadows the story. People have an emotional experience, and that's aided by tech[1]", he explained. Rather than letting the tech steal the show, Tatham and the Nintendo crew ensure story takes center stage, "We're not flashing our tech just to prove we can use it. We're using it in service of the story[1]".
Enter the world of participatory entertainment when you crash through the nooks and crannies of Donkey Kong Country, play tangible mini-games, or bongo-funk-out with friends. What's more? Collect points throughout the land with the Power-Up Band to unlock hidden secrets, like an epic boss battle. Because seriously, who doesn't need a secret boss fight in a video game-themed land[1]?
Epic Universe's version of the Nintendo land is only the latest phase of their collaboration. As Nintendo looks to expand its cast of game characters beyond traditional games, who knows what's next? Hyrule heroes, Star Fox pilots, or even pocket monsters? "Epic Universe will never reach completion, because there's always more to come, new stories to tell[1]."
Keep an eye peeled for future releases from Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, the DC Universe, and even more Doctor Who. Buckle up for the rollercoaster ride that Epic Universe promises to be, it opens on June 15th, 2024.
[1] Based on enrichment data
- The new Super Nintendo World at Universal Orlando's Epic Universe, a collaborative project between Universal Studios and gaming giant Nintendo, showcases advanced technology, indicating that tech-driven lifestyle and entertainment experiences are shaping the future of theme parks. (io9, technology, entertainment, future, lifestyle)
- In the Donkey Kong Country area of Super Nintendo World, visitors can collect points using the Power-Up Band to unlock hidden secrets, like secret boss fights, providing a blended experience of traditional gaming and theme park adventures. (gaming, tech, Donkey Kong Country, secret boss fight)
- With the success of Super Nintendo World, it appears that Universal Studios and Nintendo are working to expand their collaboration beyond traditional games, hinting at potential additions of characters from franchises like Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, DC Universe, and Doctor Who in the future. (Universal Studios, Nintendo, Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, DC Universe, Doctor Who, collaboration)
