Universal Studios' Super Nintendo World Is Mind-Bogglingly Crazy
Universal Studios' latest collaboration with Nintendo, Super Nintendo World at Epic Universe, brings a whole new level of gaming immersion with the addition of a Donkey Kong Country area. This expanded universe transports guests straight into the world of the iconic game, and it's nothing less than extraordinary.
io9 had the opportunity to attend the media preview for the new land in Universal Orlando. While the West Coast park already showcased Super Nintendo World in 2023, Epic Universe takes it to another level, with an exhilarating new Donkey Kong Country ride. As with the universal gaming style, it's not simply a spectator's game. You can compete in real-time matches and race laps on Rainbow Road, all while experiencing the world beyond the screen.
Universal Creative Director Steve Tatham shared insight into the concept behind this next-generation theme park. He emphasized that enhanced technology and cutting-edge figures are integral to their interactive experiences, but not the primary focus. Instead, the story takes center stage. "We use technology to aid the emotional experience, not shout about it," Tatham explained. And this is evident in the various offerings, especially the Mine Cart Madness ride. The Donkey Kong Country adventure features all the characters you love, and each scene feels ripped straight from the game.
The participatory aspect shines brighter than ever as you navigate the nooks and crannies of Donkey Kong Country, engaging in mini-games and collecting points to unlock secret areas. With the Power Up Band, you can tap various points scattered throughout the land to collect bananas, coins, and other fun rewards. And if you've amassed enough points, you'll unlock a hidden boss battle—because no video game land would be complete without an epic showdown.
Tatham emphasized the close collaboration with Nintendo, particularly Shigeru Miyamoto, in creating this immersive experience. "The partnership ensures every detail is exactly as it should be to create an authentic experience for the fans," he said. As a testament to their efforts, the new land seamlessly captures the spirit of Donkey Kong Country while providing guests with an unforgettable adventure.
While the focus is on the Donkey Kong Country area at the moment, Epic Universe promises more to come. "Epic Universe is always evolving," Tatham teased. "There are always new stories to tell, new characters to introduce, and new worlds to explore." So who knows? Perhaps we'll see Zelda, Star Fox, or even some Pocket Monsters in the future.
Epic Universe opens its doors this Friday at Universal Studios Orlando. So gear up for an unforgettable gaming-meets-reality adventure. Don't forget to collect those points and conquer that secret boss battle!
For more io9 news, stay tuned for updates on the latest Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, DC Universe, and Doctor Who releases. Get ready to embark on the ultimate gaming theme park journey, Super Nintendo World-style.
- The future of Super Nintendo World at Epic Universe includes potential expansions featuring iconic video game characters like Zelda, Star Fox, and Pocket Monsters, as teased by Universal Creative Director Steve Tatham.
- io9 had the unique opportunity to attend the media preview for the Donkey Kong Country area of Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Orlando, reveling in the immersive and interactive gaming experience the collaboration between Universal and Nintendo promises.
- Enhanced technology plays a significant role in creating the participatory and emotional immersion within Super Nintendo World, with innovative experiences like the Donkey Kong Country Mine Cart Madness ride, but it is the story that remains the primary focus, as emphasized by Tatham.
