Epic Universe: A Comprehensive Review

From the moment I stepped into Celestial Park – the gateway to Universal Orlando Resort’s newest theme park, Epic Universe – I was enveloped in a sense of wonder and anticipation. As I looked ahead, four portals promised to transport me into the enchanting worlds of my favorite fictional universes, filled with magic, monsters, dragons, and plumbers. While the journey through these realms has its challenges, Epic Universe more than lives up to its name, offering an unforgettable experience.

What will linger most vividly in my memory from Epic Universe isn’t just the attractions – though the animatronics-filled thrill of Monsters Unchained stands out as one of the world's best rides – but the immersive moments that truly transported me from Orlando into the heart of these beloved stories. Where else could I gain the trust of Toothless from How to Train Your Dragon, assist Dr. Frankenstein in capturing Dracula, leap into the Mushroom Kingdom and Donkey Kong Country, or travel back in time to the Wizarding Worlds of 1920s Paris and 1990s London? Only at Epic Universe, making it an essential destination for any enthusiast.

Super Nintendo World

Image Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

Super Nintendo World and its Donkey Kong Country area may have debuted in other Universal parks, yet the rendition at Epic Universe remains a spectacle. As a lifelong fan whose journey to writing for IGN began with countless cherished nights playing Super Mario World with my mom, stepping into Mario’s world was a dream come true.

Emerging from Celestial Park through a Warp Pipe-shaped portal – complete with iconic sound effects – felt like a homecoming. The familiar elements were all there: the flagpole atop Mount Beanpole with its spinning coins, menacing Thwomps, Koopas, and a stack of Goombas; Peach’s Castle with its beckoning paintings reminiscent of Super Mario 64; and the K-O-N-G letters scattered throughout Donkey Kong Country, mirroring the game's collectible challenge. The transition from video game to reality was executed with stunning precision.

The Question Blocks added an interactive layer to the experience. With a Power-Up Band, guests can transform Super Nintendo World into a game, collecting digital coins, stamps, and keys. Even without one, the joy of engaging with these beautifully designed, illuminated cubes was a highlight, tapping into the essence of what makes theme parks so special.

Image Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

The meticulous attention to detail, including Pikmin hiding in corners, a Yoshi’s Story book in the queue, and countless nods to Nintendo’s rich history, made waiting for Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge an enjoyable experience. An underground area even featured an 8-bit Mario pop-up triggered by the Power-Up Band.

However, the land's attractions felt slightly underwhelming. Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge lacked the expected sense of speed, and the AR glasses restricted my view, detracting from the immersion. Yoshi’s Adventure, while boasting the most adorable queue, was frustratingly slow, leaving me exposed to the Orlando sun. Mine-Cart Madness was a bit rough, and the signature track jumping illusion was less impressive from the back seat.

Despite this, the joy of simply exploring Super Nintendo World far outweighed any ride shortcomings. The land's accessibility, with plentiful elevators compensating for the numerous stairs, was a thoughtful addition.

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

The Toothless meet-and-greet at Epic Universe’s Isle of Berk was an unparalleled character encounter. The life-size animatronic dragon responded in real-time, extending his head for a pet, closing his eyes, and making approving sounds. The technology was breathtaking, and the experience was enhanced by a character actor perfectly embodying Hiccup, Toothless’ companion.

The land itself vibrantly captured the spirit of Berk, complete with colorful dragons, mischievous sheep, and abundant water features. Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, my second-favorite ride and the best family coaster in the park, offered a smooth and thrilling tour of Berk, enhanced by John Powell’s iconic score.

Image Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

Dragon Racer’s Rally and Fyre Drill, while enjoyable, were more suited to younger audiences. Dragon Racer’s Rally allowed control over the ride vehicle but lacked the sensation of flying and music. Fyre Drill, with its cute dragon and human cutouts, was a slow water ride with less powerful water guns than I hoped for.

The multilevel playground was a highlight for younger guests, offering a prime view of the land and a much-needed space for kids to expend energy. The live show, The Untrainable Dragon, showcased impressive dragon animatronics, though the story could have been stronger.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic

Image Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

Epic Universe’s Harry Potter land, with its focus on the Battle at the Ministry and its jaw-dropping queue, exceeded expectations, particularly with its immersive recreation of 1920s Paris. Dining at Café L’air De La Sirène, enjoying French onion soup and a butterbeer crepe, transported me to the heart of the city, enhanced by the live band and the adorable Puffskein, Plume.

The land’s ambience, with its towering buildings and 1920s-dressed character actors, set the stage for the exceptional Le Cirque Arcanus show. This performance, filled with fantastic beasts and talented performers, was a highlight that left me laughing, amazed, and even emotional.

The interactive wand experiences, however, were less successful. Casting spells required multiple attempts, which was frustrating. The queue for Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, though, was a marvel, rivaling even the Star Destroyer in Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.

Image Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

Traveling through the Métro-Floo to 1990s London’s Ministry of Magic was equally impressive. The detailed offices, reception booths, and moving wanted posters set the scene for the ride’s narrative. However, the ride itself, while impressive, was jerky and relied heavily on video screens. It lacked the charm of more practical effects-driven rides, though fans of Harry Potter will find much to enjoy.

Dark Universe

Image Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

Initially, Dark Universe seemed less appealing to me, but it left a lasting impression, primarily due to Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment. This ride, featuring Universal’s classic monsters, was a thrilling yet accessible experience, seamlessly blending video screens with stunning animatronics. I rode it four times without feeling any discomfort, solidifying it as the standout attraction of Epic Universe.

Image Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

Curse of the Werewolf, a spinning roller coaster, added to the fun, allowing riders to see each other’s reactions. Though slightly more aggressive, it was still enjoyable for most. The land's atmosphere, while atmospheric with the Frankenstein Manor and Burning Blade Tavern, was less impactful during the day due to the bustling crowd. Nighttime visits, however, enhanced the eerie feel.

The meet-and-greets, with characters like Ygor and Frankenstein’s Monster, were delightful, showcasing Universal’s commitment to immersive experiences through their talented cast.

Celestial Park

Image Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

Celestial Park is far more than a mere gateway to the other lands. Its cosmic theme is reflected in its shops, restaurants, and the exhilarating Stardust Racers. This dueling coaster rivals Islands of Adventure’s VelociCoaster, offering thrilling inversions and a sense of competition as riders speed past each other.

At night, Stardust Racers transforms into a spectacle of shooting stars, enhancing the ride experience. The Constellation Carousel, while slower, offers a serene dance among the stars, though the view is somewhat obstructed by the ride’s structure.

Celestial Park provides ample space for kids to play, though shade is scarce. With temperatures often in the 90s, it’s crucial to come prepared with sunscreen and plan indoor breaks or visit during cooler months.