Donkey Kong Country: A Sneak Peek Into Nintendo’s Super Nintendo World

by Annika November 11, 2024

Nintendo fans and theme park enthusiasts were treated to a sneak peek of the upcoming Super Nintendo World in Japan during a recent Nintendo Direct. Shigeru Miyamoto, the legendary game designer, took viewers on a guided tour of the Donkey Kong Country section of the park, showcasing thrilling rides, interactive games, and unique dining experiences. The presentation also revealed that a similar layout will be featured in the Super Nintendo World opening at Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe in 2025. From mine cart roller coasters to conga drum games, Donkey Kong Country is set to be a hit internationally.

Donkey Kong Country: A Sneak Peek Into Nintendo’s Super Nintendo World

– Nintendo held a short Nintendo Direct presentation showcasing the new Donkey Kong Country section of Super Nintendo World in Universal Studios Japan.
– Shigeru Miyamoto gave a guided tour of the attractions in Donkey Kong Country, including a mine cart roller coaster, a conga drum game, and themed eateries and playgrounds.
– The layout of Super Nintendo World in Universal Orlando, including Donkey Kong Country, was revealed, with the park set to open in May 2025.

Nintendo recently held a short Nintendo Direct presentation, but it wasn’t centered around video games like fans anticipated. Instead, it focused on Super Nintendo World, the Nintendo-themed area in Universal Studios Japan. Shigeru Miyamoto, a representative director for Nintendo and the creator of iconic games such as Super Mario Bros. and Donkey Kong, took viewers on a guided tour of Donkey Kong Country, the newest addition to Super Nintendo World.

Miyamoto led fans through various attractions and rides in Donkey Kong Country, showcasing a mine cart roller coaster, a conga drum game, and a series of lettered blocks that interact with a Donkey Kong Power-Up Band. Alongside these experiences, there were eateries, playgrounds, and plenty of banana-themed food. The presentation provided a detailed look at the vibrant and immersive world that awaits visitors.

Towards the end of the Nintendo Direct, it was revealed that the layout of Super Nintendo World in Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe will mirror the one in Universal Studios Japan. While the opening in Japan is set for December 2024, American parkgoers will have to wait until next summer to experience Super Mario Land and Donkey Kong Country in Florida. The announcement of Universal Orlando’s opening date for Epic Universe, May 22, 2025, means that visitors can explore not only Super Nintendo World but also other worlds like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and Dark Universe.

The attention to detail in Donkey Kong Country is remarkable, with the design of the park echoing the look and feel of the Donkey Kong video games. Adult visitors will appreciate the nostalgic nods to the original Donkey Kong, such as cave paintings and 8-bit King Koopa appearing on the walls. Additionally, the three-person conga drum game provides an opportunity for families to play together, catering to both children and adults.

While the attractions and designs receive praise, the food options in Donkey Kong Country leave something to be desired. The emphasis on banana and avocado flavors might limit the variety, and it is hoped that basic options like burgers will also be available. Nevertheless, Donkey Kong Country is expected to be a hit internationally, providing a fun and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.