My impressions of Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood | The DeanBeat

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A little Super Mario magic is soon heading to that not-so-magical word "transmedia." This time it takes the form of a theme park addition. Super Nintendo World opens at Universal Studios Hollywood on February 17.

I managed to get a few hours to play in the space, which is crammed into a relatively confined space in Universal's lower lot. Before entering, you can purchase a Power-Up Band, which costs $40 in addition to your Universal Studios admission ticket. If you're a gaming geek, you won't blink at this price to visit a place that will make you relive both your childhood and your adult life. Music alone will do that.

The band combines a small hockey puck on a wraparound bracelet. It allows you to record your interactions during the visit. And yes, it's probably a good idea for someone to make money with the addition of a theme park. It's a very creative way to spread video game culture to the mainstream and fulfill the prophecy that video games devour all entertainment.

Also, if you are planning a trip, there is a process to follow for reservations on the Universal site. You'll also want to get the Universal app so you can access the details your band collects for you. Once you've synced your wristband with the app, you're ready to record your ride.

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Peach's Castle.

You can see from the videos what it looks like when you enter the world. You go through a green tunnel and a castle hall to emerge into Nintendo space. I felt like I was entering a video game. Except you're a bit short and everything else around you is tall. Blocks from Mario games are ubiquitous in this space, which is not so much a world as a crowded public square.

A lot of people were dressed in Nintendo cosplay outfits. I felt a bit naked. It wasn't like the place was claustrophobic. They let a lot of people in, but not so many that you have to squeeze through. It's like the campus size of the Avenger in Disney California Adventure. I wish Universal could have added more terrain to the space, but I still felt like I was in another place, with all the animatronic characters adorning the walls.