It’s finally time: Super Nintendo World is open at Universal Studios Hollywood! Despite virtually jumping into warp pipes for most of my life, I was thoroughly unprepared for how amazing it would be to do in real life. From the moment you step into the world, and the iconic music begins to play, there is no mistaking it…Universal has a hit on their hands. Taking cues from the Super Mario Bros franchise (along with a few other hidden surprises), this new area of the park is sure to have something for everyone. So how does it fare? Let’s see!

THE ATMOSPHERE

Right off the bat, Super Nintendo World captures the look and feel of the video games. From the question mark boxes and bricks spread out to the recognizable enemies roaming the land, you’ll be like that Leonardo DiCaprio meme, pointing out things you love. The kinetic energy from this place is incredible. There is movement EVERYWHERE.

Coins are floating, turtle shells bounce back and forth, and Yoshi is out for a stroll. There is so much going on at once that it’s almost sensory overload…in a good way! It truly feels like you’ve stepped into the world of Super Mario, and for those of us who grew up with it, it really hits that nostalgia. The bright, colorful aesthetic is genuinely incredible.

There are also so many hidden nooks and crannies here that you will be surprised what you stumble upon. Every corner we turned, there was something new to see. It was surprising how much they packed into such a small space.

ACTIVITIES

One of the things people were most excited about for Super Nintendo World was the interaction that would make you feel like you were part of the game. While it IS a lot of fun, the downside is that you need to purchase the armband (an additional $40) to experience the land fully. That said, the armband adds another layer of fun that is worth the price. Once purchased, you pair it with your Universal Hollywood app on your smartphone with a simple snap of a QR code. The app will automatically update your progress as you go along. For those without smartphones, there are kiosks nearby to scan your band and see how far you have come.

The goal of the land is to collect three keys throughout the land in order to unlock the final battle with Bowser Jr. The activities can be found all over, and range from trying to make a Goomba fall off a log to stopping alarm clocks from waking up a piranha plant. You can also earn coins by hitting question mark blocks, as expected. Of course, the Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge attraction is also included in this as well, transferring the coins you earn from the ride over to your profile.

Once you earn three keys and unlock Bowser Jr’s Castle, you fight him in a fun, interactive “game” environment with other guests. On paper, it seems sort of strange, but I am telling you, fans of the Mario games will love it.

My only gripe with the armband is that it is not as secure as you would hope. Mine flew off while doing one of the activities, while Norm’s came off while exiting the Mario Kart attraction. Both times, it caused delays so cast members could retrieve them. We heard much of the same from a few other guests, so the best move may be to keep it in your pocket when you’re not using it.

THE FOOD

The Toadstool Cafe is an adorable eatery that serves food inspired by the games, and as far as theme park fare goes…it’s quite good. We had an assortment of goodies, all of which we thoroughly enjoyed. I had the Mario Burger, which was actually quite juicy and delicious. Norm’s Luigi chicken breast burger was also delightful. The little touches of the mustaches on the bun were hilarious, and we definitely pocketed the tiny hats that accompanied them.

For dessert, I had the Mt. Beanpole Cake, fashioned to look like the hills of one of Mario’s levels. Delicious, but sweet…but that didn’t stop me from eating the whole thing. Norm’s Question Block tiramisu was also quite good. Honestly, Universal kind of kills it in the food department lately…everything keeps getting better. I don’t think anyone will be disappointed by their meal here.

A nice touch of the restaurant is the digital windows both into the kitchen (where Toads are preparing your meal) and to the outside world. Every 15 minutes, Bowser’s ship invades the restaurant, causing the lights to darken and Bullet Bills to wreak havoc on the kitchen screens. It’s a nice touch and lots of fun.

THE ATTRACTION

Of course, as someone who has played Mario Kart for years, I couldn’t wait to see the ride itself. I’m happy to report that it’s an incredible infusion of physical sets and effects and augmented reality technology that really makes you feel like you’re in the game. Seriously, it is jaw-droppingly good. Being able to hurl turtle shells on some of your favorite courses at some of your favorite characters is an absolute blast.

Universal really went above and beyond here, making an unforgettable attraction that is more fun every time you go on it. Even if the AR is too much for you (which, truly, it should not be), watching the ride without the goggles on is also an incredibly fun time. Of course, since the ride is interactive, it’s not a guarantee that you’re going to win the day. Sometimes, Team Bowser does take the W, but that should only encourage you to try again.

My only problem with the ride is that I wish the AR screen was a bit wider. My eyes did wander off to the sides every so often, but I think it might be a slight limitation of the technology. Once you get used to it, though, it’s a breathtaking experience.

OVERALL

Honestly, Super Nintendo World is a fantastic example of taking a known property and bringing it into the real world. Fans of all ages will definitely love this new addition to the park. Now that it is open, we definitely recommend going to check it out if you haven’t done so already…you’ll be happy you did!

Super Nintendo World is now open at Universal Studios Hollywood.