Let’s-a go! Jump in the Warp Pipe and take a virtual tour of the Super Nintendo World theme park
Photo credit: Nintendo YouTube Channel
The Super Nintendo World is a dream destination for every kid and kid-at-heart! Universal Studios Japan, plus, Super Mario Bros. creator Shigeru Miyamoto and his team, took great care in building an accurate depiction of the universe and its quirky stages. If you can’t fly to Osaka anytime soon then don’t worry because there’s a virtual tour available so you can see what’s inside. For now, we share the highlights to get you hyped up.
Photo credit: Nintendo Japan Website
The video game theme park features life-sized replicas of different stages that can be found in the Mario world. There are even huge animatronics of Bowser’s minions stomping around like they’re about to chase you down. It’s as if you have been magically transported into the game!
Photo credit: Super Nintendo World Website
Who says video games prevent you from exercising? The map above is proof that you will need a Super Star boost to cover ground in this world. You will get more than enough cardio for the day.
Photo credit: Nintendo Japan Website
You may not be chucking Fire Flower flames anytime soon but this theme park-exclusive Power-up Band holds its own kind of magic inside Super Nintendo World. These colorful wristbands unlock the secrets of the Mushroom Kingdom—just a simple swipe on certain displays can trigger an interactive game or a hidden message.
Photo credit: Nintendo Japan Website
One such game consists of hitting the POW blocks in the correct pattern in order to reach a floating key. Your progress will be recorded in the Power-Up Band, which you can access on your smartphone by scanning the QR code located at the back of the band. Now if you want something a bit more hands-on, then look no further than the main attraction.
Photo credit: Nintendo YouTube Channel
One of the most popular spin-off games in the Mario franchise now has a true-to-life ride! Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge (ICYDK: Koopa is the Japanese name of Bowser) lets you experience the topsy-turvy tracks (think: Rainbow Road levels of crazy) from the racing game using the power of AR technology.
Photo credit: Super Nintendo World Website
And that’s not all, you also get to interact with your favorite characters from the game. However, it remains to be seen if the dreaded Blue Shell will make an appearance to wreak havoc among the racers. Now if you want to slow things down, you could also take a stroll in the underground area—cue pipe sound effects and the theme song.
Photo credit: Nintendo YouTube Channel
You may need to tread carefully when exploring the underground stage because you never know what might happen. For instance, a wild Bob-omb may appear as shown above.
Photo credit: Nintendo YouTube Channel
If you have successfully avoided running into trouble so far, then congratulations are in order. However, venturing further into the area may pose new challenges. You may find yourself suddenly shrinking in size and needing to overcome big obstacles such as this block. Once you have managed to escape, you can take a break and grab a bite at Kinopio’s Cafe (Kinopio is the Japanese name of Toad).
Photo credit: Nintendo YouTube Channel
Upon entering the place, you’ll be greeted by toadstool-themed furniture and a bright ceiling adorned with classic Mario power-ups. This cute little cafe is run by a gleeful gaggle of Toads who know their way around a kitchen.
Photo credit: Nintendo YouTube Channel
You can see the Chef Toad crew on the digital window screen happily greeting customers and excitedly running about to prepare the meal. They enjoy flexing their culinary skills and are able to whip up delicacies that you can only find here.
Photo credit: Nintendo YouTube Channel
You don’t need to punch any blocks to find out what’s inside this dessert! The Hatena Block Tiramisu is filled with sweet and creamy goodness.
Photo credit: Nintendo YouTube Channel
From the looks of it, the Super Mushroom Pizza Bowl serves a similar function as its video game inspiration—replenishing HP after a tiring day.
Photo credit: Nintendo YouTube Channel
Before leaving via warp pipe, you should drop by the gift shop to buy a souvenir. After all, you want something to remember your epic journey.
Photo credit: Nintendo YouTube Channel
The 1UP Factory is filled with Super Mario merchandise that would make any hardcore Nintendo collector jump for joy. You’ve got branded apparel, exclusive toys, character hats, and more!
Photo credit: Nintendo YouTube Channel
Curious to see the other attractions in the park? Have a first look in this video led by the creator himself, Shigeru Miyamoto, shown here with Luigi and Mario. Experience the virtual tour here, where you can also get more information on how to plan your Super Mario adventure.