Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood is bringing Mario, Princess Peach, and Bowser to life - everyone's favorite plumber, princess, and villain!
The Mario-themed Zone
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the new area of Universal opens on February 17, 2023.
Visitors will be able to engage themselves in a fully immersive experience inspired by the famous video game franchise Mushroom Kingdom.
After making its premiere at Universal Studios Japan in March 2021, the Nintendo-themed experience is now making its way to Universal Parks in the United States with the inauguration of this area.
The new zone will have Mario-themed restaurants, a shop, and a ride called Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge. All of these are part of a park design that makes reference to Nintendo's Mario property via its architecture and attractions.
Newest Park Attraction
The new attraction, which takes its cue from the Mario Kart video games, will use augmented reality (AR), projection mapping technology, and physical set pieces to transport riders around a moving ride track. A vibrant, ever-changing, and sensory-stimulating background will be seen.
Patrons will sit in a stadium configuration and use AR eyewear to guide four-seat cars through familiar terrain, ranging from the depths of the ocean to the tops of the skies.
There are several possible scenarios as riders compete for the Golden Cup and acquire coins to help them beat Team Bowser.
All of this will take place inside Bowser's Castle. It is a building topped with a statue of the Mario villain that serves as the entry queue for riders who must first make their way through a labyrinth of twisting corridors before reaching a hall filled with medals and trophies and, ultimately, the ride itself.
Fans of Mario and Nintendo will be able to buy Power-Up Bands, which can be used for interactive games all across the park and are not only limited to the ride.
After completing the four challenges, players will face Bowser Jr. in a final boss battle. But first, they must use their wristbands to interact with punching blocks and collect digital coins and keys from Goomba, Koopa Troopa, Piranha Plant, and Thwomp.
The app can be downloaded for free from the Universal Studios Hollywood website. Visitors to the park may keep track of their scores, compete in teams, and have access to unique experiences with Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach by purchasing and wearing Power-Up Bands.
More Offerings
Toadstool Cafe, the signature diner of the land, will serve a gourmet menu perfected by Chef Toad. Dishes like Toadstool Cheesy Garlic Knots, Super Mushroom Soup, Piranha Plant Caprese, Mario Bacon Cheeseburger, Luigi Pesto Chicken Burger, Question Block Tiramisu, and Princess Peach Cupcake will be available.
Visitors may also buy Mario and Luigi-themed clothes, headgear, and accessories, as well as Yoshi and Bowser stuffed toys and more at the 1-UP Factory.