Epic Universe's Super Nintendo World Predominantly Nutty Experience
Universal Studios Orlando's Epic Universe unveils Super Nintendo World this week, and the gaming magic is taking a wild detour with the introduction of a Kong of a different kind - Donkey Kong! During the media week preview, we got a sneak peek at what's coming, and it's no ordinary theme park ride.
During our visit, we learned that Epic Universe aims to be a 21st-century theme park, boasting advanced technology and next-level animatronic figures. The highlight of this new theme park experience is undoubtedly the Mine Cart Madness ride from Donkey Kong Country. This thrilling ride features your favorite characters, Donkey Kong, and Diddy Kong, in scenes reminiscent of their classic video game.
Steve Tatham, Universal's Creative Director, shared some insight about the concept behind the park. "Everything here is technology, but it's not about showing off technology," he said. "We want an emotional experience, and the tech is there to enhance it." This approach keeps the focus on the story rather than the technology, creating a more immersive and enjoyable experience for visitors.
To make the experience even more interactive, the park encourages visitors to explore physical spaces to collect points with the help of a Power-Up Band. These bands activate touchpoints throughout the park, allowing you to collect coins, bananas, and other items. You can even spell out "KONG" by tapping different points in Donkey Kong Country.
The best part? Complete enough points across the new land, and you'll unlock a secret, hidden boss battle. Because let's be honest, what's a video game theme park without a secret boss?
Nintendo has been a crucial partner in creating this one-of-a-kind experience, working closely with legendary creative guru Shigeru Miyamoto to ensure every detail is spot-on. While we've seen Mario and Donkey Kong in the first Super Nintendo World, Epic Universe offers an expansion pack with more Nintendo characters potentially on the horizon.
"Epic Universe is never done," says Tatham. "There's always more ideas, always new stories to tell." Here's hoping we'll see more of our favorite Nintendo characters in the future.
Epic Universe opens this Friday, and we can't wait to see what other magical worlds Universal Studios has in store for us!
If you're looking for more gaming news, check out the latest updates on Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, the future of Doctor Who, and the DC Universe on film and TV. Keep gaming!
- The technology used in Epic Universe's Donkey Kong-themed attraction is not just for show-off purposes; it's designed to enhance the emotional experience of visitors.
- The Power-Up Band, a crucial part of the interactive experience at Epic Universe, allows visitors to collect points by activating touchpoints throughout the park.
- Nintendo, a crucial partner in the creation of Epic Universe, is potentially planning to introduce more Nintendo characters in the future, making it an expansion pack of sorts for Super Nintendo World.
