Universal Studios has revealed when the US's first Super Nintendo World will open its doors.
That’s right, a whole theme park dedicated to the Japanese video game company, complete with themed rides and attractions based on characters like Donkey Kong, Super Mario, and Yoshi.
There is already a Super Nintendo World in the Japanese city of Osaka, and there are others slated to open around the world, including at Universal Studios Orlando, but California will get the first go at it, and it will open next year at Universal Studios Hollywood.
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Obviously, it’s been a long journey to get to this point, what with several delays and a global pandemic to contend with, but this news will no doubt excite theme park fans and Nintendo fans alike.
The full statement announcing the 2023 opening date read: 'Super Nintendo World opened first at Universal Studios Japan to rave consumer and critical reviews in 2021.
'The US debut of Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood will transport theme park guests and Nintendo fans into the world of Mario, Luigi and Princess Peach to become part of their compelling universe.
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'Super Nintendo World was conceived in partnership with Nintendo and the visionaries at Universal Creative to deliver exhilarating entertainment with innovative technological achievements inspired by characters and video games that have appealed to generations of Nintendo fans for over 40 years.
'The immersive land will be a visual spectacle of vibrant colours and architectural ingenuity located within a newly expanded area of the theme park, featuring a groundbreaking ride and interactive areas, to be enjoyed by the whole family.
'Themed shopping and dining will enhance the entire experience.'
The partnership was initially announced in 2015, promising some ‘immersive experiences’ as well as thrill rides.
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Much like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World will have a designated space within the Universal Studios Hollywood park.
At the Osaka site, fans receive a smart-watch style ‘Power Up Band’ that will be able to track their progression through the park.
Japanese theme park fans can enjoy an AR (augmented reality) Mario Kart experience, as well as a Yoshi’s Adventure train ride for those who fancy something a bit more low-key, and a Donkey Kong themed area that is rumoured to be opening there in 2024.
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The creators of the new Nintendo parks promise that the various attractions will be ‘expansive, immersive, and interactive.’
Their statement adds: 'They will be highly themed and authentic environments filled with multiple attractions, shops, and restaurants.'
Sounds pretty good, right?
With any luck, there’ll be some sort of real-life Rainbow Road attraction, if that doesn’t already feature in the AR Mario Kart.
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As for those on the East Coast of the USA, Universal Studios Orlando is set to host another Super Nintendo World, although that might not be finished until 2025 if reports are to be believed.
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Tom Wood