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Super Nintendo World in Japan expanding with Donkey Kong area

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super nintendo world donkey kong universal studios japan

Universal Studios Japan is expanding Super Nintendo World with the world’s first Donkey Kong-themed area.

Universal Studios Japan has confirmed that it is expanding the Super Nintendo World land to include the world’s first Donkey Kong-themed area, scheduled to open in 2024.

Super Nintendo World opened at Universal Studios Japan earlier this year, an immersive space for innovative technology, themed rides, interactive entertainment and Nintendo characters.

Universal Studios Japan is already set to expand Super Nintendo World to include a themed area inspired by Donkey Kong, bringing to life one of Nintendo‘s most popular games.

“Super Nintendo World creates a whole new level of theme park entertainment and has quickly become an exciting, must-do experience for our guests,” said J.L. Bonnier, president and CEO of Universal Studios Japan.

Donkey Kong heading to Japan

“We are thrilled to continue working with Nintendo as we fulfil our vision to bring their characters and stories to life. Our new Donkey Kong themed area will bring even more excitement and fun to the Super Nintendo World experience.”

The Donkey Kong area will feature a roller coaster, interactive experiences, themed retail and F&B. Visitors will feel like they are playing inside the arcade game, which was released by Nintendo in 1981.

Since then, the Donkey Kong video game franchise has sold more than 65 million units worldwide and has been played on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Wii, and Nintendo Switch.

The Donkey Kong expansion will be delivered by the Universal Creative team, as well as Nintendo game developer Shigeru Miyamoto. The addition will increase the size of Super Nintendo World by approximately 70 percent.

Donkey Kong area opens 2024

super nintendo world universal japan

“I am very happy to be able to make the world of Donkey Kong a reality, following the world of Mario” Miyamoto said. I am looking forward to creating a thrilling Donkey Kong experience with the amazing team at Universal.”

“It will take some time until it is completed, but it will be a unique area for not only people who are familiar with Donkey Kong games, but for all guests,” he added.

Universal is developing Super Nintendo World attractions in Singapore, Orlando and Hollywood. Epic Universe at Universal Orlando is also rumoured to feature a jungle-themed area inspired by Donkey Kong.

Images: Nintendo/USJ

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Bea Mitchell

Bea is a journalist specialising in entertainment, attractions and tech with 10 years' experience. She has written and edited for publications including CNET, BuzzFeed, Digital Spy, Evening Standard and BBC. Bea graduated from King's College London and has an MA in journalism.

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