Three Months and Counting: Your Epic Universe Prep Guide Awaits!
As the clock ticks down to Epic Universe’s grand debut this May, theme park enthusiasts are mapping out their strategies for conquering Universal’s newest playground. While you could certainly dive into this immersive world without any homework, a bit of pre-park preparation will transform your visit from merely magical to epically enlightening. Consider this your academic syllabus for Epic Universe 101—minus the final exam, but with all the fun intact!
Related: Epic Universe Height Requirements: Everything You Need to Know Before Your Adventure Begins
Super Nintendo World: Power Up Your Knowledge
Before you leap down any warp pipes or barrel-blast through the jungle, acquaint yourself with the pixelated pioneers who paved the way for this interactive wonderland.
Essential Gameplay:
- Super Mario World – This SNES classic introduces you to the Mushroom Kingdom’s colorful cast and the foundation of Mario’s adventures, including both Mario and Luigi and Yoshi
- Mario Kart – Race ahead of the competition by familiarizing yourself with power-ups and track hazards before boarding the real-world version (the land is heavily influenced by Mario Cart 8, but any entry into the genre should give you the general idea!)
- Donkey Kong Country – Swing into action with this barrel-blasting adventure that will prepare you for the land’s jungle aesthetics and mine cart mayhem (especially important for Mind Cart Madness)
Even casual gamers will level up their experience when they recognize the iconic sound effects and character references scattered throughout these meticulously crafted environments. No cheat codes needed—just a bit of nostalgic gaming to make those coin sounds all the more satisfying!
Dark Universe: Monster Mash Crash Course
Universal’s classic creatures are crawling out of their crypts and into this atmospheric land where Victoria Frankenstein continues her family’s questionable scientific legacy.
Must-Watch Monsters:
- Frankenstein (1931) – Meet the original creation and understand the scientific hubris that powers this land
- Dracula (1931) – Sink your teeth into the vampire lore that influences the park’s gothic architecture
- The Wolf Man (1941) – Howl with appreciation at the werewolf references you’ll spot throughout
- The Invisible Man (1933) – See (or don’t see?) why this transparent terror remains a Universal staple
Universal created the horror film genere, and these classics are the rock upon which not only the curent horror films are based, but for the monstrous land you’ll be exploring. Consider it your chance to be the smartest person in your group when you casually mention, “Ah, that’s clearly a reference to Dr. Pretorius’s miniature people from Bride of Frankenstein!”
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic
The bureaucratic heart of the wizarding world gets the spotlight treatment as Epic Universe ventures beyond Hogwarts and into the political machinations of magical government.
Spellbinding Screenings:
- Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix – Essential viewing to understand Dolores Umbridge and her villainous rise to power
- Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince – Witness the continuing saga that shapes the wizarding political landscape
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Parts 1 & 2) – Complete your understanding of Umbridge’s tyrannical arc
- Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them – Get acquainted with Wizarding Paris, which serves as the architectural inspiration for the land outside of the Ministry of Magic attraction
No need to memorize all the Ministry’s departments (though it wouldn’t hurt to review the Department of Magical Law Enforcement)—just brush up enough to appreciate why that pink-clad witch deserves her day in magical court!
How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk
Soar into the Viking village that has captured hearts across three animated adventures, with Epic Universe’s version nestled chronologically between the second and third films.
Dragon-Sized Viewing:
- How to Train Your Dragon – Meet Hiccup, Toothless, and the gang while learning the foundations of dragon-human relations
- How to Train Your Dragon 2 – Absolutely essential as the park is set immediately after these events
- How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World – Optional but recommended to appreciate the full arc of the story
This watch list will have you brimming with excitement once you finally have the chance to Meet Hiccup and Toothless at the Haddock Paddock when the park opens in just a few short months.
Related: Universal Orlando Resort Launches Next Phase of Tickets and Packages for Epic Universe
The Final Countdown
With opening day rapidly approaching, even the most dedicated fans might need to prioritize. If time is tight, focus on the Harry Potter films featuring Umbridge, the first two How to Train Your Dragon movies, and a sampling of the most iconic Mario games and Universal Monsters films.
Remember, this homework assignment is entirely optional—Epic Universe has been designed to welcome newcomers and superfans alike. But for those who love to spot Easter eggs and understand inside jokes, this watch-and-play guide will ensure you’re not just visiting Epic Universe, but truly experiencing every meticulously crafted detail in all its glory.
Now grab your popcorn, dust off those gaming consoles, and get studying—this might be the most enjoyable preparation you’ve ever done for an epic adventure!
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