Universal confirms Nintendo presence for all of its parks
by Tom Anstey | 29 Nov 2016
Shigeru Miyamoto – known for creating some of the most critically acclaimed and best-selling video games of all time such as Donkey Kong, Mario and The Legend of Zelda – is working with Universal on the project / Universal/Nintendo
Universal will expand its Nintendo presence beyond Japan by building similar attractions in its Orlando and Hollywood theme parks.
The theme park operator said in a statement that the parks would be expansive, immersive and interactive, with visitors feeling as as if they are inside their favorite games.
According to Universal, the attraction will not exclude amateur or non-gamers, with something for everyone, “regardless of their age or gaming experience level”.
“Planning and creative work on these areas is well underway; they will open separately over the next several years.” said a Universal statement.
“The creative visionaries behind Nintendo’s legendary worlds and characters are working together with the creative teams behind Universal’s blockbuster theme park attractions, with their goal to bring the characters, action and adventure of Nintendo video games to life within our theme parks.”
Each Universal theme park will announce details of its specific Nintendo areas. The first such announcement will come soon, with Japan’s addition expected to be purely based on the Super Mario franchise.
Universal Studios Japan (USJ) has said its Nintendo addition will be developed at a cost of ¥50bn (US$451m, €424m, £363m).
According to USJ, the attraction in Osaka will exceed the size of its Harry Potter element and will feature multiple attractions, dining options and retail venues. The expansion will take four years to develop, with the opening timed to coincide with the 2020 Olympics and Paralympic Games, which are to be hosted in Tokyo.
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Universal will expand its Nintendo presence beyond Japan by building similar attractions in its Orlando and Hollywood theme parks. The theme park operator said in a statement that the parks would be expansive, immersive and interactive, with visitors feeling as as if they are inside their favorite games.
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