As Universal prepares for launch of its first Nintendo theme park attraction in 2020, Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime has revealed some details for the upcoming attraction, promising “immersive amusement interactive situations” and potential smartphone interactivity for the highly-anticipated addition.
"It's a huge opportunity," said Fils-Aime, speaking to
Alist Daily. "What this promises for the guest at the Universal Studios theme parks is something that's really magical.”
In addition to the immersive nature of the themed area, Fils-Aime said that Universal’s creative team is developing the attraction with smartphone interaction in mind. While not revealing specific details, he said that phones would play a role in Nintendo attractions at Universal Parks.
"These theme park designers are considering that so many of their patrons have a smart device," he said. "They're thinking about what that means to the overall experience. Certainly it is something that they are considering as they work with us to create this theme park experience."
Universal Studios Japan (USJ) has said the upcoming Nintendo attraction will be developed at a cost of ¥50bn (US$451m, €424m, £363m).
According to USJ, the attraction in Osaka will exceed the size of its Harry Potter element and will feature multiple attractions, dining options and retail venues. The mainly Mario-themed expansion will take four years to develop, with the opening timed to coincide with the 2020 Olympics and Paralympic Games, which are to be hosted in Tokyo.