What took so long to bring Mario to the East Coast
Super Nintendo World Finally Warps to the East Coast! But how will It compare to its counterparts
After years of power-ups, warp pipes, and waiting, Super Nintendo World is finally making its way to the East Coast! When Epic Universe opens May 22nd 2025, Orlando will officially become home to the biggest and most advanced version of the land yet. If you’ve been watching enviously (like I have) as Japan and Hollywood got their versions, the wait is over and it’s time to celebrate, because Universal Orlando’s version is going all out to make this one the best of them all.
But how does it compare to its counterparts in Universal Studios Japan and Universal Studios Hollywood? Let’s take a look at what makes each version unique and why Epic Universe’s upcoming land might just be the ultimate power-up.
The Journey to Orlando
Nintendo fans on the East Coast have been waiting years for their chance to step into the Mushroom Kingdom. While Japan and Hollywood got a head start, Orlando’s delay was due to something much bigger, Epic Universe. Rather than squeeze Super Nintendo World into an existing park like its predecessors, Universal Orlando decided to go big, making it a major land in an entirely new theme park.
And honestly? It was worth the wait
With more space, additional attractions, and upgraded technology, Orlando’s Super Nintendo World will be the most expansive version yet, taking everything great about the others and giving it a Flower Power-Up.
Comparing the Super Nintendo Worlds: Japan vs. Hollywood vs. Orlando
Universal Studios Japan, The Original 16-Bit World
Opened: March 18th 2021
What Makes It Special: The first Super Nintendo World and the blueprint for the rest. This version debuted with:
- Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge: The signature AR-based racing attraction
- Yoshi’s Adventure: A family-friendly omnimover ride
- Toadstool Café: Serving up adorable, game-inspired eats
- Power-Up Band interactivity: Letting guests “play” throughout the land
This version set the standard with incredible theming, interactive gameplay elements, and hidden surprises everywhere.
Universal Studios Hollywood – A Compressed 8-Bit Version
Opened: February 17th 2023
What Makes it Special: This version brought Super Nintendo World to the U.S. for the first time, but it had to fit into a much smaller space. That meant:
- Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge: Was the only major ride (no Yoshi ride here)
- Toadstool Café: Still offering all the delicious Nintendo-themed food
- Smaller play area: But still packed with interactive Power-Up Band elements
Hollywood’s Super Nintendo World is a fantastic experience, but it’s not as big as Japan’s and certainly won’t compare to what Epic Universe has in store.
Universal’s Epic Universe (Orlando) – The Next-Gen Version
Opening: May 22nd 2025
Orlando’s version levels up the concept with all the existing attractions from Japan, including
- Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge and Yoshi’s Adventure and brings,
- Donkey Kong Country: Mine-Cart Madness: A first-of-its-kind roller coaster, unique to Orlando!
- Bigger and more interactive: With even more secrets, Power-Up Band activities, and themed experiences
- More advanced technology: With the latest updates from Universal’s other versions
Unlike Hollywood’s more compact version, Orlando’s Super Nintendo World will be massive, giving guests plenty of room to explore, interact, and discover easter (or Yoshi) eggs galore.
Why Orlando’s Version Will Be the Best Yet
With all the lessons learned from Japan and Hollywood, Epic Universe Super Nintendo World is set to be the definitive version. Here’s why:
- The First Donkey Kong Ride in the U.S: The Donkey Kong Country: Mine-Cart Madness coaster is set to bring this new thrill ride to the land, using it’s “fake track” system that makes it look like your cart is leaping over gaps, just like in the games!
- Larger Space: Unlike Hollywood, where space was a challenge, Orlando’s version will be expansive, ensuring more room to explore and interact.
- More Advanced Tech: Universal has had years to refine and improve the land, meaning Orlando’s version will be the most polished and immersive.
- Part of a Brand-New Park: Super Nintendo World won’t just be an expansion, it’s part of an entirely new theme park, Epic Universe, making it a must-visit destination for any gaming fan.
Final Thoughts: Was It Worth the Wait?
No question. While Japan and Hollywood got to experience Super Nintendo World first, Orlando is getting the best version, bigger, better, and packed with even more Nintendo magic.
If you’ve been holding out for the ultimate Nintendo experience, this is it. Get ready to power-up your vacation in 2025 when Super Nintendo World opens at Epic Universe, because this isn’t just another theme park land. It’s a whole new level.
And remember, before you jump into the action, make sure you grab your Epic Universe and Universal Studios tickets from AttractionTickets.com to lock in the best deals!
