Super Nintendo World was set to launch in Japan on February 4. However, the grand opening was recently postponed following the declaration of a State of Emergency in Osaka Prefecture.
Rides and attractions at the themed expansion include Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge and Yoshi’s Adventure, as well as Bowser Jr. Shadow Showdown.
“Think of Super Nintendo World as a life-size, living video game where you become one of the characters. You’re not just playing the game; you’re living the game, you’re living the adventure,” said Thierry Coup, senior VP and CCO, Universal Creative.
March 18 opening date
There will also be characters, retail outlets and F&B, including Kinopio’s Cafe and Yoshi’s Snack Island. Power Up Bands can be linked to smartphones, allowing guests to collect digital coins and compete with other visitors.
“You’ll be able to go up and keep score and play with the various games. That also translates to a score-keeping capability if you choose to do so within the rides. It actually interfaces back with your game console,” said Universal Parks & Resorts CEO Tom Williams
Super Nintendo World is also heading to Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Singapore and Universal Orlando Resort’s Epic Universe.
Universal Orlando Resort recently revealed it had resumed work on Epic Universe, after pausing construction during the pandemic in July 2020.
Nintendo launch delayed
According to the Orlando Sentinel, Universal told Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings that Epic Universe is now set to open in early 2025. It was previously scheduled to launch in 2023.
Construction started on Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood in August 2020, with first-look images of the Nintendo-themed area emerging online.
In October, Universal Studios Japan held the opening ceremony of the new Mario Cafe & Store ahead of the launch of Super Nintendo World in spring 2021.
