With the much-anticipated arrival of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD as one of five immersive lands in Universal’s upcoming Epic Universe theme park, guests will soon experience what feels like literally jumping off the tracks on a groundbreaking new roller coaster ride. Sounds wild, right? Let’s break it down.
Epic Universe is Coming — With Five All-New Themed Lands
Universal Orlando Resort is gearing up to launch its boldest theme park project yet: Epic Universe, opening in Summer 2025. After nearly five years in development, the official trailer dropped in January 2024, showcasing over 50 new attractions, restaurants, shops, and even an on-site hotel.
Here’s a sneak peek at the lands you’ll find inside Epic Universe:
- Celestial Park – The gateway to the entire park
- SUPER NINTENDO WORLD – Enter the colorful, interactive world of Mario and friends
- Dark Universe – A moody realm filled with Universal Monsters like Frankenstein
- Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic – Explore the magical streets of London and France
- How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk – Soar into the world of Hiccup and Toothless
And in the heart of the action, the Helios Grand Hotel by Loews will let guests stay inside the theme park itself, a first for Universal.
A Third SUPER NINTENDO WORLD – And It’s Leveling Up
Following its huge success in Japan and Hollywood, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is making its East Coast debut. The Orlando version is rumored to feature:
- Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge – An AR-powered dark ride
- Yoshi’s Adventure – A kid-friendly tour through the Mushroom Kingdom
- Donkey Kong: Mine Cart Madness – A high-speed, track-jumping thrill ride
But this last one? It’s where things get next level.
Universal’s New ‘Boom Coaster’ Tech Will Blow Your Mind
The Donkey Kong coaster isn’t your average thrill ride. Universal has developed a patented new ride system called the Boom Coaster, inspired by the classic mine-cart levels from the Donkey Kong games.
Here’s how it works:
- Riders sit in mine cart-themed vehicles, arranged two by two.
- The visible track looks broken or disconnected at points, simulating danger.
- But underneath, there’s a hidden sideways track, allowing the cart to remain securely in motion.
- The result? Guests feel like they’re leaping across gaps in the track, just like Donkey Kong does in the game — but in reality, they're always safely guided along the hidden rails.
This effect is so convincing, it gives the illusion of mid-air jumps, adding a whole new layer of excitement and immersion.
Real Footage & Expert Insights
Theme park insiders like CoasterTalk and Orlando Park Stop have already analyzed early footage and construction updates, confirming that this ride system is in development for both Japan (launching Spring 2024) and Orlando (coming 2025).
In fact, aerial images from @Bioreconstruct on X (formerly Twitter) show exactly how the new Orlando Donkey Kong coaster is shaping up. From the ride’s layout to the track’s design, it's clear Universal is going all-in to recreate this game-inspired experience in real life.
More Than Just Rides – Immersive Nintendo Fun Awaits
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD in Orlando will also include:
- Toadstool Café – A quirky spot to try dishes inspired by the Mushroom Kingdom
- 1-UP Factory – Packed with exclusive Nintendo merch
- Interactive games & challenges – Use a Power-Up Band to compete and unlock surprises
- Signature dining experiences – Themed restaurants for fans of all ages
Combined with the innovative ride tech and immersive environments, this land is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious theme park projects ever attempted.
Final Thoughts
The Donkey Kong Boom Coaster is about to redefine what’s possible in theme park ride design. With track-jumping effects, a nostalgic game-world theme, and Universal’s immersive storytelling, fans of all ages will get to experience what it really feels like to leap through a level of Donkey Kong Country — no controller needed.
Whether you're a thrill-seeker, gamer, or just a fan of unforgettable experiences, Epic Universe is about to change the game.