Universal Orlando will be opening a Nintendo theme park in the coming years as part of a massive expansion project that will double Universal Orlando’s size. Comcast reps recently confirmed that the upcoming Nintendo theme park in Orlando is expected to open in 2023. The new Super Nintendo World area will be part of Universal’s Epic Universe area, a 750-acre park located across the street from the main Universal Orlando Resort park.
While details available about Orlando’s Nintendo park are minimal, guests can likely expect similar details to those found at Super Nintendo World Osaka, set to open this spring. The Japan location will reportedly offer rides, shops and interactive experiences, including wearable wristbands called “power up bands.” When paired with the accompanying app, the bands allow guests to collect digital coins and use them to play games against other visitors at the park. The Japan location is scheduled to be open in time for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Universal is planning a large Nintendo-themed initiative for its theme parks around the world. The Universal Studios Hollywood park will add its Nintendo area before Orlando one does. Universal will also open a Pokémon area as part of the Universal Orlando Resort theme park’s KidZone area this year. Universal Orlando’s new location and will employ an additional 14,000 workers on top of Universal’s already-existing 25,000 Orlando-based employees.
Thierry Coup, the senior vice president and chief creative officer at Universal Creative, said in a statement, “You’re not just playing the game; you’re living the game, you’re living the adventure. Nintendo’s most iconic locations and experiences will be brought to life, including Mushroom Kingdom, Peach’s Castle, an incredible Mario Kart ride, Bowser’s Castle – and more.”
