Universal Studios Hollywood's Super Nintendo World Review - 7 Big Talking Points

The new Super Nintendo World is small, but perfectly formed. If you're huge fan of Mario this is definitely going to be a place that blows you away.

Those who grew up with a Nintendo that we spoke to loved the chance to meet and see all the characters that were from their childhood. The meet and greets with characters whose faces moved were definitely a big hit, especially their ability to speak and interact more with guests.

Those who are newer to the franchise will also fall in love with Super Nintendo World. The focus on exploration and discovery mean that prior knowledge of Super Mario isn't required. Just like in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the rich tapestry of the new land allows you to become fully immersed in it.

Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge really is a ride that takes the classic shooting targets attraction and brings it forward for a new generation. The AR technology is fun and although being demanding on the senses isn't overwhelming. You really are inside a Mario Kart game. Like with most shooting style rides, the re-ride ability is endless. As with any video game, you get better the more you do it. As you get used to steering and throwing shells at Bowser's team, you'll find your scores improve with each ride.

The interactive games are what makes the land fully rounded. They are super fun and most are suitable for almost everyone in your party. The Power Up Bands allow you to interact with the land as you discover but they also make for the ideal gift to take home. Those who are local to Universal Studios Hollywood and visit regularly, a Power Up Band really should be a must buy.

As the land is so small compromises have had to be made compared to its sister park in Japan, with the loss of a ride and a Key Challenge. Yet, the Hollywood land does not feel incomplete in any way.

If you do go to Super Nintendo World in the near future you will need to be patient. With demand for the new land so high, crowd levels mean that a Virtual Queue system is in place for the near future and you will find yourself in queues for the Key Challenges and multiple lines for getting your food at Toadstool Cafe. As Team Members get used to the new land and demand begins to relax, you'll find in a few months there will be less of this.

Universal Studios Hollywood have proven once and for all that size doesn't matter, it's what you do with it. Super Nintendo World is a dream for those who've grown up with Mario, and the perfect introduction for those who are entering the world of Nintendo for the very first time.

Those from the UK who can't wait to get to Super Nintendo World can book packages through Virgin Holidays:

Five nights in Los Angeles from £1,499 per person

Five nights in Los Angeles, with Virgin Atlantic Holidays, including scheduled Virgin Atlantic flights from London Heathrow direct to Los Angeles, five nights’ accommodation at Sheraton Universal, and the Universal Studios Hollywood buy a day, get a 2nd day free special offer ticket. Price is per person based on 2 adults travelling and sharing a Traditional Guest Room with a King Bed and includes all applicable taxes and fuel surcharges which are subject to change. Price is based on a departure on 17th April 2023. Virgin Atlantic Holidays is a member of ABTA and is ATOL protected. To book: www.virginholidays.co.uk or call 0344 557 3859.

Prices are correct as of 19th February 2023

Five nights in Los Angeles from £4,350 for a Family of Four (two adults, two children)

Five nights in Los Angeles, with Virgin Atlantic Holidays, including scheduled Virgin Atlantic flights from London Heathrow direct to Los Angeles, five nights’ accommodation at Sheraton Universal, and the Universal Studios Hollywood buy a day, get a 2nd day free special offer ticket. The price is for a family of four, based on two adults and two children travelling and sharing a Traditional Guest Room with two double beds, and includes all applicable taxes and fuel surcharges which are subject to change. Price is based on a departure on 17th April 2023. Virgin Atlantic Holidays is a member of ABTA and is ATOL protected. To book: www.virginholidays.co.uk or call 0344 557 3859.

Prices are correct as of 19th February 2023

Virgin Atlantic flights:

Virgin Atlantic flies direct between London Heathrow and Los Angeles with return fares from £396 per person, including complimentary food, drink, and inflight entertainment. For further information visit www.virginatlantic.com or call 0344 8747 747.

This fare is available for selected departures during 02JAN–24MAR, 17APR-21MAY, 31OCT-07DEC. The prices given are correct as of 19th February 2023 and are subject to change.