The construction of the new Universal theme park in Orlando was restarted after the delays caused by the pandemic COVID-19. Originally scheduled to open in 2023, the Epic Universe – which will include Orlando’s own Super Nintendo World – is now scheduled to open in early 2025, according to Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, as reported by Orlando Sentinel.
Universal issued a statement following Demings’ remarks, noting that construction began “immediately, but it should take several months before it reaches maximum speed as Universal reorganizes the project and regroups the teams of suppliers and contractors”. The company’s statement did not give a new deadline for the opening of the park; we’ve contacted you for comment and will update this article with all the information we receive.
The Epic Universe will be Universal’s third theme park in Orlando, reportedly with stores, restaurants and hotels. The site is expected to occupy a 750-acre facility. Universal has not submitted explicit plans for the Orlando website.
Universal Studios Japan’s Super Nintendo World theme park in Osaka was originally scheduled to open on February 4, but the opening was postponed due to the pandemic. However, Universal “smoothly inaugurated” the theme park in February, and images of the park began to circulate on social media. It is expected to be officially opened as soon as the state of emergency in Osaka is lifted.
Nintendo launched an in-depth Nintendo Direct also in 2020, showing the two main attractions of the Super Nintendo World: Mario Kart Koopa’s Challenge and Yoshi’s Adventure. The park also includes Nintendo-themed food stalls and restaurants, as well as various playable elements throughout the park.