logo
Mario, Yoshi and Donkey Kong take over Orlando in Universal's biggest new theme park land

Mario, Yoshi and Donkey Kong take over Orlando in Universal's biggest new theme park land

USA Today22-05-2025
Mario, Yoshi and Donkey Kong take over Orlando in Universal's biggest new theme park land
Show Caption
Hide Caption
Early look at Universal Orlando's Epic Universe's SUPER NINTENDO WORLD
Universal Orlando's Epic Universe park will include five new themed areas including SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. Here's an early look inside.
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD includes themed lands, rides, dining, and interactive experiences based on popular Nintendo franchises.
The Orlando version is the third SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, larger than Hollywood's, and features unique attractions like Yoshi's Adventure.
Mamma Mia! Mario, Luigi and the entire crew arrived in Florida this week.
Universal Orlando's new theme park, Epic Universe, opened to the public on Thursday, May 22. It consists of five new lands for parkgoers to explore, including the highly anticipated SUPER NINTENDO WORLD.
Epic Universe is located in Universal's new south campus, about 15 minutes away from its other parks. The official address is 4700 E. Sand Lake Road in Orlando.
Here's what theme park junkies and avid gamers need to know about SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Universal's Epic Universe.
What is SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Epic Universe?
The new world features rides, dining and immersive attractions based on the Super Mario Bros, Mario Kart, Yoshi, and Donkey Kong franchises. It will feature two specific lands — Super Mario Land and Donkey Kong Country.
Universal described the new world as a 'multi-sensory environment where guests can experience the fun and adventure of Nintendo games in a whole new way" in a previous news release.
'As guests emerge from the pipe, vibrant scenery and exciting kinetic energy surround them as they are greeted by the familiar sights and sounds that they've experienced on their Nintendo game consoles – from the towering Mt. Beanpole and majestic Peach's Castle to swaying Piranha Plants, pacing Goombas, spinning coins, '?' Blocks and more,' according to Universal.
See map of Universal Orlando's Epic Universe
What is the difference between Hollywood and Orlando SUPER NINTENDO WORLD?
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD first opened at Universal Studios Japan in 2021, with Universal's Hollywood location getting its own in 2023. Orlando's land is the third in existence.
Orlando's version resembles Japan's land and will be larger than Hollywood's. It has the first Yoshi's Adventure and Donkey Kong Country in the U.S.
How many rides are in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD Orlando?
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD has three rides for guests to experience.
Gamers can experience some of their favorite Mario Kart courses in real life on Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge. You will also throw shells and collect digital coins to beat Team Bowser.
Universal also shared that the ride has multiple different outcomes, meaning it will be different every time you ride it.
Over at Mine-Cart Madness, guests will enter the majestic Golden Temple and take off on the family coaster to help Donkey Kong protect the Golden Banana.
Yoshi's Adventure will give guests 'breathtaking views of Super Mario Land as they join Yoshis and travel through Mushroom Kingdom landscapes in search of glowing eggs – encountering many familiar characters along the way,' according to Universal.
What are the restaurants at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Epic Universe?
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD has four different eateries, allowing guests to dine like their favorite video game characters.
Its main quick-service restaurant is Toadstool Cafe, which is already a hit at other Nintendo parks worldwide.
"Fuel up at Toadstool Cafe, where you can watch Chef Toad cooking up some of his favorite recipes and see playful scenes of the Mushroom Kingdom through the windows," Universal writes online. "Enjoy tasty creations prepared daily, including soups, salads, and sandwiches, as well as delicious entrees and delectable desserts."
There are also three different snack and beverage kiosks in the themed world:
The Bubbly Barrel - Located in the heart of Donkey Kong Country, you'll find the perfect refreshment for your adventures in the jungle
- Located in the heart of Donkey Kong Country, you'll find the perfect refreshment for your adventures in the jungle Yoshi's Snack Island - Enjoy a variety of juices and fruit-based specialty beverages, inspired by Yoshi's favorite food: fruit!
Enjoy a variety of juices and fruit-based specialty beverages, inspired by Yoshi's favorite food: fruit! Turbo-Boost Treats - Guests can take a pit stop at Turbo-Boost Treats for some Mario Kart race day snacks.
First taste of Universal Epic Universe: Trying its highly themed food, drinks
Will there be shops at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Epic Universe?
There are two souvenir shops — The 1-UP Factory and Mario Motors stores. Guests can also purchase a wearable Power-Up Band for additional interactivity across SUPER NINTENDO WORLD.
'With the Power-Up Band, guests can collect digital coins by punching '?' Blocks and playing interactive activities; collect digital stamps on attractions; earn digital keys to unlock an exclusive showdown against Bowser Jr.; and discover other hidden surprises,' Universal said last year.
'Guests can also access Leaderboard screens in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD to see where they rank amongst fellow guests.'
Are there character meet-and-greets at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD?
Yes! Guests can say hello and pose for photos with some of their favorite characters, including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and Toad.
What are the other four portals at Universal's Epic Universe?
Celestial Park – The first world guests encounter when they arrive, features relaxing gardens, a 'wet play area,' a grand carousel, and a dual-launch racing roller coaster with 5,000 feet of track and speeds up to 62 mph. Celestial Park will also be the gateway to Epic Universe's four other worlds, accessed by themed portals.
The first world guests encounter when they arrive, features relaxing gardens, a 'wet play area,' a grand carousel, and a dual-launch racing roller coaster with 5,000 feet of track and speeds up to 62 mph. Celestial Park will also be the gateway to Epic Universe's four other worlds, accessed by themed portals. How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk gives fans of the 'How to Train Your Dragon' franchise a chance to finally soar like Hiccup, Astrid and their fellow Dragon Riders do on screen.
gives fans of the 'How to Train Your Dragon' franchise a chance to finally soar like Hiccup, Astrid and their fellow Dragon Riders do on screen. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic blends "1920s wizarding Paris from Warner Bros. Pictures' 'Fantastic Beasts' films with the iconic British Ministry of Magic from the Harry Potter series,' according to Universal Orlando, which is already home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley
blends "1920s wizarding Paris from Warner Bros. Pictures' 'Fantastic Beasts' films with the iconic British Ministry of Magic from the Harry Potter series,' according to Universal Orlando, which is already home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley Dark Universe – Guests can expect to 'encounter everything from the experiments of Dr. Victoria Frankenstein to the shadowy landscape where monsters roam in a world of myth and mystery," according to Universal.
Can I buy tickets to Epic Universe? How much are tickets to Epic Universe?
Yes. Guests can purchase single-day admission or multi-day ticket packages to Epic Universe.
Single-day tickets are available for visits starting Sunday, June 1. These tickets start at $139 and can go up to $199 during peak periods. Annual pass holders can purchase single-day tickets at a discounted price.
May dates are unavailable unless you choose the multi-day ticket packages announced last year. The packages include one or more days at Universal's other parks and a single-day admission to Epic Universe.
Universal has also announced other products guests can add onto their admission, including express passes, VIP Tours, photos and costume experiences.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Why The Nintendo Switch 2 Is Living Up to The Promise
Why The Nintendo Switch 2 Is Living Up to The Promise

Geek Girl Authority

time6 hours ago

  • Geek Girl Authority

Why The Nintendo Switch 2 Is Living Up to The Promise

Nintendo's latest console, the Switch 2, has shattered release records by selling 3.5 million units in just four days – double the results of the original Switch launch. The Switch 2 is now the fastest-selling Nintendo console of all time. And it's not surprising, considering all the upgrades and cool new features. The Switch 2 is more than just another slightly newer version of its predecessor. It's an evolution. And it delivers. Nintendo has been promising power – this is it Without destroying the familiarity of the original Switch , Nintendo carefully refined their most popular hybrid console by upgrading the hardware, increasing the screen size, and adding some impressive tech specs. A 7.9-inch full HD display . A bigger screen means better visuals. Combined with the upgraded 1080p and a 120 Hz refresh rate, the Switch 2 provides a crisp, vibrant visual. As a result, colors pop and smaller text is legible. Better speakers . The built-in speakers have been improved for a better overall gaming experience. 4k docked and 120 fps performance . When handheld, you get 4k at 60 fps. Docked, you get 1080p at 120 fps. An impressive chip . The Switch 2 comes equipped with Nvidia's custom Tegra chip with DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) and ray tracing support. DLSS allows the console to upscale low resolution images using AI to enhance the overall experience. A better dock . The Switch 2 dock has a Gigabit Ethernet port and better ventilation, which reduces heat and lag. Ethernet is crucial for hardwiring games that require full internet speed. There are also two USB-C ports for additional peripherals, like a webcam. Better battery life . Official tests show the battery lasts up to around four hours. Compared to the original Switch that sometimes barely hit 2.5 hours ( depending on the serial number ), this is a great improvement. More storage . The Switch 2 comes with 256 GB of internal space and supports microSD Express so you can download bigger install packages. With familiar aesthetics and more power, the Switch 2 delivers what Nintendo fans have been waiting for all this time. The higher price tag is worth it Although some people were surprised to see the new Switch 2 priced at $449.99, it's well worth the cost. Especially when durable Switch 2 cases are affordable for protecting your investment. While all the hardware specs are worth the higher price, there are several other upgrades that make it worth more. Magnetic joycons . The rails on the original Switch felt unstable, but the new joycons snap on magnetically for a secure fit. A joycon that doubles as a mouse . When you need to use menus, the right joycon doubles as a mouse with a built-in roller ball. Better haptic feedback . The haptic feedback is quieter, yet deeper. Pushing the buttons is satisfying and the rumble makes the Switch 2 feel more like a premium console. Bigger joycons . The new joycons on the Switch 2 are about an inch larger with bigger buttons and better analog sticks. Backwards compatibility . There's no need to rebuild your entire collection of games. The Switch 2 is backwards compatible with the original games , both physical and digital. You can port over your entire digital library along with all of your saved data. New games . The launch lineup for the Switch 2 is impressive , with games like Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, Cyberpunk 2077, Fortnite, Hogwart's Legacy, Survival Kids, and more. Social features . Now there's a built-in voice and video chat feature, screen sharing, and webcam support for connecting with others. Performance gains on original games . With all the hardware upgrades, even the original Switch games benefit from improved framerate, sharper visuals, and faster loading times. You can also use new features like GameChat on the original games. These refinements are proof that Nintendo listened to fans and chose to upgrade the new console from top to bottom. This is the Switch you've been waiting for If you've been waiting for Nintendo to finally release a console with power, this is it. The Switch 2 is truly a nextgen console that finally delivers on what Nintendo has been promising for years. It's more than just another Switch. It's an evolution of everything fans loved about the original, yet reimagined with better performance, sharper visuals, smarter hardware, and future-proof features. From the 1080p display to the upgraded joycons, the 4k docked output and an incredible launch lineup, this console lives up to the hype. Whether you're a long-time Nintendo fan or you're just getting into gaming, the Switch 2 will not disappoint. F2P Friday: STRANGE ANTIQUITIES RELATED: 15 Co-Op Games Announced in June 2025

12 GameCube Games That I Want to See on Nintendo Switch Online
12 GameCube Games That I Want to See on Nintendo Switch Online

Yahoo

time8 hours ago

  • Yahoo

12 GameCube Games That I Want to See on Nintendo Switch Online

The GameCube era was one of Nintendo's most creatively experimental periods, and it's long overdue for more representation on Nintendo Switch Online. At the time of writing, only three GameCube titles have made their way to Switch Online on the Switch 2: The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-Zero GX, and Soulcalibur II. These are without a doubt great titles, but it's a shame there aren't more. I'm not just talking about bestsellers either, there are plenty of weird and wonderful titles that deserve a second chance through Switch Online. Whether it's to preserve history, introduce new players to long-lost gems, or simply make these games accessible without sketchy emulators and ancient hardware, there's a strong case to be made for bringing them back. Super Smash Bros. Melee redefined what a platform fighter could be and remains a title that sees competitive tournaments worldwide, over two decades after its launch. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate has certainly perfected the series, but Melee is an absolute classic that deserves to be celebrated without having to dig through sketchy ROMs or have access to a GameCube. Adding Melee to Nintendo Switch Online would be more than nostalgic fan service — it's a preservation of gaming culture. While Nintendo has never prioritized online play for Switch Online titles, the game flourish with official support and rollback netcode. Please, Nintendo. Long before New Horizons became a global phenomenon, the original Animal Crossing introduced players to a charming real-time world. While newer entries in the series have refined the formula, the GameCube original still offers a uniquely cozy, slower-paced experience. Its regional quirks, NES game emulation, and surprisingly witty villager dialogue give it a nostalgic charm modern versions can't fully replicate. Plus, many longtime fans never got to play the original, making it one of Nintendo's most inaccessible classics. While Mario Kart World is being praised for its massive multiplayer and open-world gameplay, I'm still dreaming about the innovative two-character kart from Double Dash. One player drove while the other managed items, adding a strategic layer that no other Mario Kart title has replicated since. A one-of-a-kind installment and a couch co-op classic, this would be a top title if added to Switch Online. The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures is one of the franchise's most inventive—and most overlooked—entries. Up to four players controlled different colored Links, working together (or sometimes against each other) to solve puzzles and defeat enemies, making it one of the most chaotic Zelda titles ever made. Back in the day, full multiplayer gameplay required players to own a Game Boy Advance and a link cable to connect to the GameCube. For this reason, not many people have truly experienced the game the way it was meant to be played. A Switch Online version could scrap that hardware requirement, letting players tackle the adventure locally or online without the extra barrier. Four Swords Adventures is practically begging for an updated release in today's hyper-multiplayer space. If you tried to explain Viewtiful Joe to someone who wasn't there when it launched in 2003, they'd think you were making it up. It blended fast-paced 2D beat-'em-up action with a slick comic book aesthetic and clever time-bending mechanics. Joe was starring in his own superhero movie, with slow-motion 'VFX' powers that turned each battle into a stylish, strategic spectacle. While Viewtiful Joe was critically acclaimed, it has faded away to video game history over the years and is in desperate need of a revival, even just on Switch Online. This third-party gem would be an absolute hit for Switch owners looking for a little something outside the norm to dive into. Star Fox Adventures has one of the weirdest backstories in Nintendo history. It started out as two separate N64 64 projects—an action adventure sequel to Star Fox 64 and something called Dinosaur Planet, which was owned by Rare—before the two ideas were morphed together and pushed to the GameCube. The result was a full-fledged 3D action-adventure, blending Zelda-style exploration with the Star Fox universe's colorful characters and lore, on a planet full of dinosaurs. The story is surprisingly in-depth, the puzzles and fighting are challenging, and we loved giving Fox McCloud a chance to stretch his legs instead of being cooped up in a ship all day. This title is a hidden gem, and Star Fox is a Nintendo character that doesn't get enough attention these days. A new life on Switch Online would be a brand-new adventure for the series. Wario World may not be the most famous title in Nintendo's catalog, but it's one of the most charming oddities from the GameCube era. It gave Mario's greedy, mischievous rival his own 3D action platformer — blending beat-'em-up combat, puzzle-solving, and treasure hunting into a uniquely Wario-flavored adventure. The arcade-inspired levels were filled with over-the-top boss battles as Wario pocketed as much treasure as he could find. There's been absolutely no news of a new Wario game outside the popular WarioWare party series, so we should at least give this lovable villain a chance to shine on Switch Online. Developed by Sega, Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg is one of the most creative platformers of its era, if not all-time. The premise is equally odd and epic: a boy in a chicken suit rolls giant eggs through vibrant levels, hatching creatures, solving puzzles, and battling enemies in a quest to save Morning Land from eternal darkness. Intrigued? Playful, weird, and surprisingly deep, this is one of those quirky titles that has never gotten a sequel. A new life on Switch Online would give nostalgic players a chance to revisit this wacky game and new players an intro to a weird era of gaming. Rayman 3: Hoodlum Havoc built on the charm of its predecessors while injecting a more cheeky tone and fast-paced combat. Its sarcastic dialogue, fourth-wall-breaking humor, and memorable characters (like the fan-favorite bouncy amphibian Globox) gave the game a unique identity that stood out from other platformers. They just don't make snarky games like this anymore. Rayman is one of those IPs that has always lived just under mainstream gaming and Switch Online would be a great place to introduce this oddball installment of the series. Tak and the Power of Juju is one of the mst underrated 3D platformers of the early 2000s, embodying the core of the GameCube era's quirky experimental spirit. This game stood out for its lush environments, puzzle-centric level design, and a distinct sense of humor rooted in Nickelodeon's signature style (it even spawned a full animated series later on). Set in a mystical jungle world where Tak, a young shaman's apprentice, must wield the power of nature spirits, the game blended traditional platforming with magical powers and environmental interactions. The adventure was full of creative ideas and wacky antics, making it a cult favorite.

This Mario-Style Case for Nintendo Switch 2 Is Just $19 With This Lingering July 4th Deal
This Mario-Style Case for Nintendo Switch 2 Is Just $19 With This Lingering July 4th Deal

CNET

time19 hours ago

  • CNET

This Mario-Style Case for Nintendo Switch 2 Is Just $19 With This Lingering July 4th Deal

The Nintendo Switch 2 has been around for just about a month and has already set records for units sold. CNET's Scott Stein made mention of its improved graphics and slim design. If you've already purchased this popular handheld, then adding a case for protection is a great way to get some peace of mind. We've found this Palpow Nintendo Switch 2 Mario-style case for just $19 -- thanks to a lingering Fourth of July deal. This saves you $5 off its usual price if you're a Prime member. This is an adorable way to secure your prized handheld gaming device and protect your investment. This Palpow case recalls Mario's signature red shirt and overalls look and includes two yellow buttons that clasp shut. Two elastic straps secure the Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo OLED into place and two side zippers keep everything in place. The case's red outer shell has a strong exterior that can withstand bumps, falls and scratches so your handheld console doesn't have to. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. The inside of this case has storage space for up to 10 games as well as a small pocket you can use to store charging cables and accessories. Once you place the Nintendo Switch 2 in the case, you can use two elastic straps to keep it secured. Looking for more accessories for your Nintendo Switch 2 but not sure if this one fits your needs? We've got a list of third-party accessories available in case you want more options. We're also keeping track of lingering Fourth of July and early Prime Day deals so you can keep saving on tech, accessories, kitchen appliances and more. James Martin/CNET Amazon Prime: 30-day free trial See at Amazon Prime Day requires an Amazon Prime membership, though you don't have to be a paying member to get in on the savings. Start your 30-day Prime free trial now and you'll be able to shop the best deals without paying for a subscription -- just remember to cancel before it renews. See at Amazon Best July Prime Day Deals 2025 CNET's team of shopping experts have explored thousands of deals on everything from TVs and outdoor furniture to phone accessories and everyday essentials so you can shop the best Prime Day deals in one place. See Now Why this deal matters Buying a case to protect your Nintendo Switch 2 is one of the best ways to make sure your investment stays safe. If you're a Mario World fan, this Mario-style case is especially stylish and practical, with multiple slots, straps and zippers that will protect both your new console, games and extra accessories. At $5 off, this is one of the first discounts on third-party gear for the Nintendo Switch 2.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store