We’re so excited we could burst.
This one has been in the pipeline for years and the anticipation was killing us! But it looks like Super Nintendo World in Tokyo has finally opened! Although we can’t make the trip just yet, we’re so looking forward to it. [Featured image: Noki Maeda / Yomiuri / The Yomiuri Shimbun via AFP]
And yes, you’ll be able to take on the challenge of real-life Mario Kart. Any rules against dressing up as Koopa Troopa for the occasion?
The heavily-anticipated park opened at Universal Studios Japan in February. However, Super Nintendo World will also be appearing at Universal Studios’ parks in Los Angeles (most likely 2022) and Orlando (2023).
Along with the Mario Kart experience, there are also Yoshi-themed rides for the fans of everyone’s favourite, cute-as-hell dinosaur.
Visitors can also be equipped with “power-up bands” that keep your scores as you explore the park. These also allow you to collect virtual coins as well as punching enemies and item blocks.
What is the Mario Kart ride at Super Nintendo World like?
Now, the bit you’ve all been waiting for! The Mario Kart ride sees four-person karts ‘race’ around a course based on levels from the game, and featuring famous Nintendo characters. Augmented reality headsets are expected to bring the indoor ride to life, and there’s even a prize if you’re able to beat Bowser and his team. The route will take riders through a series of classic Mario Kart worlds, from Wario’s Castle to Jungle Parkway.
Other rides include a gentler Yoshi ride that takes you all around the park (this is expected to follow at the remaining parks), a Mushroom Kingdom, and both Peach’s Castle and Bowser’s Castle.
What about the games and challenges at Super Nintendo World?
It’s not just about the rides here, because there’s plenty else to get stuck into! The Super Nintendo Worlds are intended as a fully immersive journey through some of the world’s most beloved video games, which will boast shops, restaurants, and interactive gameplay in addition to the rides.
That last part is arguably the most exciting, for the use of hi-tech ‘Power Up Bands’ will invite you to become part of the game. Visitors are invited to explore the park whilst collecting digital coins, participate in challenges, and even go head-to-head with rival gamers through smartphone apps and Nintendo Switches. You’ll even be unable to unlock ‘boss battles’, where perhaps you’ll be able to kick Waluigi in the balls.
And yes, you CAN punch blocks!
Mushrooms that make you twice the size are not currently planned, but you never know. In the meantime, all that’s left to do is start saving for plane tickets, and maybe sharpening your Mario Kart skills on your console of choice…
More information can be found at the Universal Studios website. And for those that cannot wait to see what it is like, take this virtual tour.
Those who cannot attend in person are also invited to take a virtual tour!