After fighting delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Super Nintendo World has finally opened its doors to the public in Japan. Fans have been waiting for its opening within Universal Studios Japan ever since 2016 when concept art first showed off iconic Mario locales in theme park form. Details were few and far between until mid-2020 when aerial photographs showed that construction on the park was almost finished. Shortly after the photos emerged, Super Nintendo World's opening was hit with delays thanks to the pandemic, alongside Osaka declaring a state of emergency and other theme parks canceling their events.
Thanks to the uncertain state of the pandemic around the world, fans had no idea when the park would reopen, as the delay was considered "indefinite." Earlier this month, Nintendo and Universal finally announced that the new Super Nintendo World opening date would be March 18th - only 10 days from the date the announcement was made. Fans in Japan rejoiced as others around the world bemoaned the continuing nature of the pandemic and how they would have to wait to travel to Japan and see the park in all its glory.
Today, Universal Studios Japan and Nintendo issued a press release about the park's grand opening. Legendary Nintendo game designer Shigeru Miyamoto was in attendance, as was the president of Universal Studios Japan. In true theme park fashion, there were plenty of photo ops, lots of confetti, and a significant amount of excitement. Guests were able to enter the park as Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Toad cheered them on. Some of the park's attractions include Peach's Castle, Bowser's Castle, and a new ride and interactive experience called Mario Kart: Koopa's Challenge that's based on Mario Kart. Visitors can also dine at themed restaurants, explore outdoor areas, and even purchase cosplay of their favorite Nintendo characters. One of the park's biggest features is what Nintendo and Universal Studios call "Asobi." This "play experience" allows park guests to purchase a Power-Up Band - similar to Disney Parks' Magic Bands - that tracks their progress in various challenges throughout the park. Visitors can sync their Power-Up Band to their smartphone to compare their progress to other guests' and compete in challenges, including some that require them to use "their entire bodies in dynamic activities."
It's wonderful to see that Super Nintendo World has finally opened. Fans have been clamoring for a Nintendo theme park for years, but the company insisted many times that it wasn't likely to happen. Given the opportunity to experience some of Mario's most iconic locales in person, the park's opening will hopefully help fans forget that the opening of the Orlando, Florida version of the park has been delayed until at least 2025.
While Super Nintendo World is the stuff of dreams for many Mario fans, some may wonder what will become of Nintendo's other famous franchises. Fans of The Legend of Zelda would certainly love to run through the fields of Hyrule and the huts of Kakariko Village, while Animal Crossing players might want to visit Tom Nook and design their own virtual island paradise. It's unknown whether Nintendo will ever incorporate some of its other titles in its theme park ventures. After the delays, though, it's still quite a sight to witness the grand opening of Super Nintendo World.
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March 19, 2021 at 05:17AM
