May 22nd (2025) marked a milestone in the global entertainment industry with the opening of Epic Universe, Universal Orlando Resort’s fourth and most ambitious theme park. With an estimated investment of €6 billion and a 44.5-hectare footprint, this new theme park integrates cutting-edge technology and immersive storytelling.
An Innovative Design and Five Themed Worlds
Epic Universe features a radial layout centred on Celestial Park, a space that acts as the park’s hub and access point to the other themed worlds. Celestial Park offers astrology-inspired gardens, interactive fountains, and attractions such as the Constellation Carousel and Stardust Racers, a double-coaster—the longest at Universal Orlando—that simulates a race between two trains at speeds of up to 100 km/h.
The 4 “immersive worlds” that unfold from Celestial Park
From Celestial Park, Epic Universe unfolds into 4 themed worlds:
– The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic: a fusion of 1990s Wizarding London and 1920s Paris, featuring the Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry attraction, which combines omnidirectional vehicles, 3D projections, and advanced animatronics.
– Super Nintendo World: an interactive universe based on Nintendo franchises, with attractions such as Mario Kart – Bowser’s Challenge and Mine-Cart Madness, as well as themed areas such as Donkey Kong Country.
– How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk: a recreation of the Viking world from the How to Train Your Dragon saga, with family-friendly roller coasters like Hiccup’s Wing Gliders and live shows like The Untrainable Dragon.
–Dark Universe: Dedicated to Universal’s classic monsters, it offers experiences like Monsters Unchained, an attraction that immerses visitors in a world of horror and advanced technology.
Cutting-edge technology and services
Epic Universe incorporates technological innovations such as facial recognition systems for park access, ticketing, and express lines, eliminating the need for physical tickets. Additionally, the park uses augmented reality technologies and omnidirectional motion systems in some of its more than 50 attractions, providing unprecedented immersive experiences. The new theme park also houses the Helios Grand Hotel, a 500-room resort that offers direct access and exclusive benefits for its guests.
Impact on the entertainment industry
The opening of Epic Universe represents a direct challenge to Disney’s dominance in Orlando. It is expected to attract a new generation of visitors and set a new standard in the theme park industry. In fact, the new theme park is expected to attract an additional 5 to 8 million visitors per year, with tourists expected to extend their stays by up to a full week.
Sources: Clarín, Forbes, Fast Company.
Images: Epic Universe.
