Universal Orlando Resort is gearing up for the grand opening of its highly anticipated new park, Epic Universe, on May 22, 2025. Among the most exciting attractions is Super Nintendo World, which promises to be a vibrant, immersive experience for fans of the beloved franchise. This new addition is set to offer a unique twist compared to its counterparts in California and Japan, making it a must-visit destination for Nintendo enthusiasts.
As visitors step through the portal into Super Nintendo World, they are immediately transported into the heart of the Mushroom Kingdom. The experience begins as they jump into Super Mario's iconic green Warp Pipe, where they are greeted by a world brimming with familiar sights and sounds. "Walking into Super Mario Land is literally like walking into a living, breathing version of your favorite video games," said a recent preview attendee.
Super Mario Land is filled with vibrant colors, life-sized moving game mechanics, and a plethora of Easter eggs that will delight fans of all ages. From the iconic Mt. Beanpole to Princess Peach's Castle, the attention to detail is astonishing. Interactive elements, such as moving Piranha Plants and floating Question Mark Blocks, enhance the experience. Visitors can even earn coins in real-time by punching the blocks with a Power-Up Band, adding an engaging layer to their adventure.
The park features two major rides within Super Mario Land: Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge and Yoshi's Adventure. Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge is a groundbreaking attraction that combines augmented reality, projection mapping technology, and elaborate environments. Riders will sit in a Mario Kart, collecting coins, dodging obstacles, and tossing shells at Team Bowser. "Get ready to hit the Rainbow Road hard," the preview guide noted, highlighting the immersive experience that awaits.
On the other hand, Yoshi's Adventure offers a more relaxed pace, inviting visitors to join Yoshi in a quest to find glowing eggs. This train-like ride provides stunning views of Super Nintendo World, making it a delightful experience for guests of all ages.
But the excitement doesn't stop there. Epic Universe also introduces Donkey Kong Country, a new area that features its own unique attractions and aesthetic. Visitors will find themselves surrounded by tropical landscapes and iconic landmarks like The Golden Temple. The highlight of this section is the Mine-Cart Madness roller coaster, which promises an exhilarating ride as it jumps gaps and careens sideways, creating a thrilling experience that feels both familiar and innovative.
"Mine-Cart Madness abandons the traditional track to jump gaps, go careening sideways, and really play mind games on you in the best way," said a preview reviewer, emphasizing the unique thrill of this attraction.
Super Nintendo World is not just about rides and attractions; it also teases future expansions. A beautiful stained glass display featuring characters from The Legend of Zelda hints at the possibility of more beloved franchises joining the park in the future. The Triforce symbol can also be spotted in the Nintendo Super Star Store, fueling speculation about what lies ahead.
While Super Nintendo World in Orlando shares some similarities with its counterpart in California, including the Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge ride and character meet-and-greets, it also boasts exclusive attractions that make it a unique experience. The Yoshi Adventure ride and the expansive Donkey Kong Country area are just a few of the highlights that set it apart.
For those who have already visited Super Nintendo World in California, the Orlando version offers a fresh perspective and new adventures. "Epic Universe has some exclusive areas and attractions that make it worth the trip for the most die-hard Nintendo fan," a representative stated during the preview.
Beyond Super Nintendo World, Epic Universe promises a variety of other immersive worlds, including Celestial Park, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, and Dark Universe. Each area is designed to provide a unique experience, ensuring that visitors have plenty to explore and enjoy.
As the opening date approaches, excitement continues to build. Super Nintendo World is set to be a highlight of Epic Universe, offering a blend of nostalgia, innovation, and adventure that will captivate fans of all ages. With its immersive environments, interactive attractions, and the promise of future expansions, Universal Orlando Resort is poised to create unforgettable memories for visitors.
Tickets for Epic Universe are now available, including single-day passes and preview passes, allowing fans to be among the first to experience this groundbreaking addition to the Universal family.
