Nintendo to Bring Super Mario to Life via Global Theme Parks

Nintendo and Universal Studios are teaming up in a major way to launch "worlds" in Hollywood, Orlando, and Osaka.

November 29, 2016

Not Available Lead — Image via Complex Original

James Cameron thinks he's doing something super cool by slapping us with four Avatar sequels and a massive Pandora-themed Disney World attraction, but let's be real: Universal Studios is where real theme park heads gather. To make sure we all keep giving them our time and money, Universal has inked a global partnership with Nintendo to bring the brand to life at theme parks across the globe:

"We're always looking for the next great idea and the next great place to take people,' Universal's Mark Woodbury said in a video announcement Tuesday. "Nintendo fit the bill. I mean, it's a natural." Shigeru Miyamoto, a video game legend and co-creater of iconic franchises such as Donkey Kong and Mario, wholeheartedly agrees. "Together, we are building it with an eye for what guests will actually experience," Miyamoto said.

Though a specific launch date hasn't been announced, the video's vibes sugest that fans might be able to hit up a real-life Nintendo world earlier than the rumored 2020 grand opening. But what the hell should be expected? Just some dudes in Mario and Luigi costumes snapping pics with park-goers? Nah. Here's how Nintendo described its Universal collab in a press release:

These "expansive, immersive, and interactive" Nintendo-themed areas will be opening at Universal Studios Japan, Universal Orlando Resort, and Universal Studios Hollywood. Individual announcements for each location are expected in the coming months, so maybe go ahead and set up a savings account for tickets and airfare. If you're already dwelling near one of those aforementioned Universal locations, then good for you. I bet life is swell.