Epic Universe's Super Nintendo World: A Wild, Nintendo-Inspired Experience
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Universal Studios and gaming titan Nintendo are ramping up their partnership, unveiling the expanded Super Nintendo World at Universal's Orlando's Epic Universe this week. But it's not just the familiar Mario Kart races that'll have you grinning ear-to-ear—say hello to an all-new Donkey Kong Country area, complete with a feisty new Mine Cart Madness ride!
We got a sneak peek of the Epic Universe's version at Super Nintendo World's media week preview. While its West Coast counterpart opened in 2023, this new land doesn't mess about; it's got an "expansion pack" upgrade that'll leave you stomping with excitement.
Universal Creative Director Steve Tatham shared some insights into this 21st-century theme park's concept. "We've adopted advanced technology, housing state-of-the-art ride systems and animated figures to create a cutting-edge theme park—yet it's the story that takes center stage," he said. One of the star attractions undoubtedly is the Donkey Kong Country's Mine Cart Madness ride, where you meet the hyperactive Donkey Kong alongside his pal, Diddy Kong, in scenes lifted straight from the legendary game.
Just like any true gamer, you can engage in real-time gaming. But, unlike screen-based gaming, here the technology serves as a battleground where you and the other park-goers can jump, dodge, and gather points in an epic showdown on Mario Kart's Rainbow Road. Talk about gaming experience taken to the next level!
Tatham reiterated, "We're not touting our technology to wow guests; we're using it to bring stories to life." So, expect a heartwarming, emotional rollercoaster of a time reminiscent of Nintendo's legendary design philosophies.
With engaging gameplay, the power-up band adds to the fun! You can wear this band to gather points throughout the world by tapping various hidden spots. Tatham explains, "You can collect Power-Up points, like 'K' shapes for K-o-n-g, as well as bananas, coins, and other cool objects."
Get hooked as you race through Donkey Kong Country's nooks and crannies, or try your hand at mini-games like bongos. Accumulate enough points across the entire land, and watch out for the secret hidden boss battle—because who doesn't love a boss fight at a video game theme park?
Epic Universe's Super Nintendo World is the latest addition to the collaboration between Universal and Nintendo. The partnership had rigorous oversight from Nintendo's creative genius, Miyamoto-san, who ensured each element was spot-on to preserve that authentic experience.
While the Epic Universe's Super Nintendo World focuses on Mario and Donkey Kong, there's a whole Nintendo universe out there! Could Link, Fox McCloud, or even Pikachu make an appearance in the future? Well, Tatham playfully teased about Epic Universe, "This is a place where ideas never end—where new stories are always waiting to be told."
Epic Universe at Universal Orlando opens this Friday, promising a gaming wonderland you won't want to miss!
In case you're still searching for more fun, check out the latest updates on Marvel, Star Wars, Star Trek, DC Universe, and Doctor Who releases. Here's everything you need to know about the ever-evolving geek galaxy!
- Gizmodo reports that the expanded Super Nintendo World at Universal's Orlando's Epic Universe, which includes an all-new Donkey Kong Country area, is set to provide a unique gaming experience, using advanced technology to bring stories to life, much like IO9 promised in their coverage of the theme park.
- As indicated by Universal Creative Director Steve Tatham, the future of Super Nintendo World at Epic Universe might hold even more surprises for gamers, potentially including appearances of iconic characters such as Link, Fox McCloud, or even Pikachu.
- Technology enthusiasts and lifestyle aficionados alike will find entertainment in the power-up band offered at Super Nintendo World, allowing visitors to engage in real-time gaming, collect points, and possibly unlock secret boss battles, all reminiscent of entertainment provided by technology pioneers like Nintendo.
