Color me shocked (like a Pikachu), but Universal Studios and The Pokémon Company have announced that a permanent Pokémon attraction will be coming to its theme parks sometime in the future. This is really a no-brainer type of deal, especially since Universal hosts Super Nintendo World at three of its global locations.
In a press release from both companies, the company’s said, “Universal Studios Japan is proud to build on its prior success and bring to life the world of Pokémon in new and enriching ways for the first time. Following its debut in Japan, Universal Destinations & Experiences will deliver unique Pokémon experiences across the company’s global footprint. Further details about the project will be announced at a later date.”
As one would expect, this Pokémon attraction will roll out in Osaka, Japan first before making its way to Universal Studios Florida. The attraction is supposedly based on a “hyperrealistic experience that stimulates all five senses,” which sounds a bit more extreme than I was expecting. I don’t know if I want to smell Pokémon that badly.
Featured: The PokéPark Kanto is serving as example imagery. You can view more information about this theme park here.
Tsunekazu Ishihara, president and CEO of TPC, said, “Since announcing our long-term alliance in 2021, we have collaborated with Universal Studios Japan to produce authentic Pokémon experiences such as the NO LIMIT! Parade and Halloween shows… Our mission is to enrich both the real and virtual worlds through Pokémon, and with this project, we aim to create theme park entertainment that surprises and delights fans around the globe.”
Mark Woodbury, chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, added, “The Pokémon Company is one of the most beloved interactive franchises in the world, and through our ongoing partnership, we will continue bringing its vibrant world to life in new and innovative ways for years to come.”
It’s interesting that this attraction is not listed as an expansion to Super Nintendo World, but maybe that has to do with the layout of the parks. At any rate, I’m not sure if this location will open before 2027, so I wouldn’t book a trip to Japan for later this year in anticipation.
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Written by Peter Glagowski
Peter has been a freelance gaming and film critic for over seven years. His passion for Nintendo is only matched by the size of his collection.
