The Latest on Universal Epic Universe: Potential Lawsuit, Dual Coaster Testing, and New Construction Updates
Universal Orlando’s highly anticipated theme park, Epic Universe, is on track to open in 2025. With every passing month, the park continues to impress with its rapid progress and updates. The latest news from Epic Universe includes dual coaster testing, the removal of scaffolding on a highly themed mountain, and a potential court case that could lead to a ride name change. Let’s dive into all these exciting updates and take a closer look at the ongoing construction for all areas of Epic Universe.
Ride Testing in Celestial Park
The heart of Epic Universe is Celestial Park, which is filled with thrilling attractions and stunning scenery. One of the most highly anticipated rides in this section is Starfall Racers, a dual-track, multi-launch roller coaster from Mock Rides. Recent photos from Bioreconstruct on social media show that testing has been ongoing for this coaster. The photos also reveal that one of the trains had a weighted dummy during testing. Furthermore, The Orlando Tourist was able to capture video footage from the ground, showing both trains testing at the same time. This is an exciting update, as it indicates that Starfall Racers is moving closer towards completion.
A Possible Lawsuit
The latest developments surrounding Starfall Racers could see the ride being renamed. Earlier this year, Starfall Education Foundation filed an opposition to the proposed Starfall Racers wordmark by Universal. The foundation argues that the ride’s name would dilute the value of their existing trademarks, particularly since Starfall is an uncommonly used word and not even listed in the Oxford English Dictionary. As a result, Universal has filed a new trademark application for Stardust Racers as a backup, just in case they are unable to use the name Starfall Racers. This is definitely a story worth following, as it could lead to a name change for the highly anticipated roller coaster.
Construction Updates in Celestial Park
Construction for Starfall (or Stardust) Racers continues, with work now focused on the ride’s extended queue. Nearby, there is also progress on a restaurant called Meteor Astro Pub, with front exterior walls and windows already installed. This restaurant is expected to be located near the ride’s extended queue. Meanwhile, pathways and courtyards are being constructed near the park’s large fountain display. These areas will be home to Starbucks, an ice cream parlor, and an outdoor bar.
Moving south, progress is visible on the Constellation Carousel, with rockwork around the carousel’s domed structure taking shape. Additionally, display fountains have been installed in the central lagoon, which will create a beautiful water feature snaking through Celestial Park. Towards the back of the park, work has started on framing for the Kronos Tower, which will serve as the main entrance into Epic Universe. This area will offer guests a choice to turn left or right, with covered walkways and retail locations on either side.
Updates in Super Nintendo World
Excitement is building for Super Nintendo World, which will feature immersive experiences based on classic Nintendo games. Construction work is underway for the Nintendo Superstar store, with a multi-tiered fountain now installed in front of it. Moving into the land, turrets on the sides of Peach’s castle are now being enclosed. The rotating game element that was spotted last month has since been painted and will be part of the PowerUp band’s Goomba Crazy Crank Key Challenge.
To the left of Peach’s castle, progress is being made on a courtyard that will lead to a character stage and elevator access to the lower level. On this level, framing for a character stage is taking shape within the center of the courtyard. Furthermore, attachment points for the sign above the one-up factory have been installed.
Exciting Updates for Epic Universe
Aside from these major updates, there are also other developments taking place in Epic Universe. For instance, construction has started on the main hotel called Helios Grand Hotel, which is located near the back of the park. Additionally, work is ongoing for Wizarding World, which will feature a variety of magical experiences from the Harry Potter universe. Plus, updates can be seen at the entrance to the park’s dining locations and city walk.
In conclusion, Universal Epic Universe is shaping up to be an epic theme park experience. With construction moving forward and ride testing already underway, excitement is building for its grand opening in 2025. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project.
