Epic Universe: A Comprehensive Review

As soon as踏入Celestial Park—the gateway to Universal Orlando Resort’s latest marvel, Epic Universe—I was enveloped by the enchantment of the journey ahead. Before me lay portals to beloved fictional realms, brimming with magic, mythical creatures, and unforgettable adventures. Despite some initial hiccups, Epic Universe delivers on its promise and then some.

What truly stayed with me wasn’t the rides themselves, except for Monsters Unchained—a jaw-dropping coaster that’s now etched into my memory as one of the best in the world—but the immersive moments that transported me into the worlds I adore. Where else can you bond with Toothless, assist Dr. Frankenstein, or leap into the Mushroom Kingdom and Donkey Kong Country? Only Epic Universe offers such experiences, making it an absolute must-visit.

Super Nintendo World

Super Nintendo World, complete with its Donkey Kong Country area, is a familiar sight for fans of Universal’s other parks, but it remains nothing short of impressive. This was my first Nintendo-themed land, and as someone who grew up with Super Mario World, it felt surreal to step into this pixel-perfect recreation of Mario’s universe.

Entering through a Warp Pipe—complete with sound effects—felt like returning home rather than exploring something new. From the spinning coins atop Mount Beanpole to the detailed nods to iconic games like Super Mario 64 and Donkey Kong Country, every corner of Super Nintendo World feels meticulously crafted. Even interacting with Question Blocks without a Power-Up Band brought a smile to my face.

Despite its charm, the land’s attractions fell slightly short. Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge lacked the speed I expected, and the AR glasses hampered visibility. Yoshi’s Adventure, while adorable, moved painfully slowly, and Mine-Cart Madness, though thrilling, didn’t deliver the same impact when seated in the back. Still, the land’s immersive details far outweighed its rides, and the accessibility features were commendable, given the abundance of stairs.

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

The Toothless meet-and-greet stole the show in Isle of Berk. Watching this animatronic dragon respond to my actions in real-time was awe-inspiring, enhanced by a character actor perfectly embodying Hiccup. Even the static characters like Astrid and Gobber were delightful and true to their portrayals.

Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, my favorite ride in the park, offered a serene yet exhilarating flight over Berk. The music swelled at just the right moments, immersing me in the experience. Meanwhile, Dragon Racer’s Rally and Fyre Drill were enjoyable but slower-paced, better suited for younger guests.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic

The Ministry of Magic land exceeded expectations, particularly the stunning queue leading to Battle at the Ministry. The attention to detail and scale were unparalleled, rivaling even Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. However, the ride itself was jerky and relied heavily on video screens, which detracted from its impact.

The 1920s Paris setting was equally captivating, with Café L’air De La Sirène offering a taste of France. The live band and show Le Cirque Arcanus were highlights, filled with wonder and emotion. Interactive wand experiences, while fun in concept, proved frustratingly inconsistent for me.

Dark Universe

Dark Universe, despite being the land I initially cared least about, became my favorite due to Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment. This ride is a masterclass in balance—intense yet not overwhelming—and left me grinning ear-to-ear throughout. Curse of the Werewolf, a spinning coaster, added variety with its back-to-back seating and dynamic thrills.

While the land’s atmosphere was somewhat diluted by crowds during the day, it transformed after sunset. Meet-and-greets with characters like Ygor and the Wolf Man were delightful, adding to the immersion.

Celestial Park

Celestial Park is more than just a transit point; it’s a cosmic wonderland filled with themed attractions and open spaces for families. Stardust Racers, a dueling coaster, is a standout, offering both adrenaline and whimsy. At night, the glowing coasters transform into celestial sights, while Constellation Carousel provides a calming interlude.

Despite its appeal, Celestial Park suffers from a lack of shade, making the heat a challenge. Packing sunscreen and planning breaks indoors are essential for a comfortable visit.