Nintendo Announce World-First Video Game Theme Park Deal With Universal

Talk about your left-field announcements, Nintendo have just brokered a partnership with Universal Studios to create a series of rides and attractions based on their long lineup of legendary characters. An excerpt from the press release reads:

"Nintendo and Universal Parks & Resorts announced plans to bring the world of Nintendo to life at Universal theme parks €“ creating spectacular, dedicated experiences based on Nintendo€™s wildly popular games, characters and worlds.The agreement brings two icons of entertainment together and represents a significant partnership for Nintendo as it expands the reach and popularity of its characters and intellectual property."

Specifics are thin on the ground right now, which will undoubtedly lead to fans speculating on which of Nintendo's past ideas make for the best real-world attractions. From some Zelda-themed crossbow training to Luigi's Mansion, anything and everything could happen. In addition, whether Universal are building completely new resorts, or if Nintendo's rides are going to be part of the more well-known Universal Studios established worldwide is something we're all dying to hear, but either way a slew of official video game-themed attractions are coming to a major city near you. Bring on Bowser's Castle. What do you make of the announcement? What rides do you want to see, and how do you think it's going to affect the company's standing with gamers? Let us know in the comments!