Universal’s Epic Universe in Orlando, Florida, is located around a ten-minute bus shuttle from the main two parks, Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios. The park carries an ambition that feels near impossible for today’s theme park realities. Opened in 2025 as the first major theme park in the U.S. in over two decades, however, this park is no exception to growing pains and almost appears as a publicity stunt in many areas.

   First, with the good and the great. Epic Universe is absolutely stunning. The park serves as an outlet between drastically different worlds. Whether it is stepping into the crazy child-like energy of the Super Nintendo world, or the polar opposite of which is a gothic-themed land dubbed Dark Universe. The environments that Epic Universe holds are all extremely rich in detail, immersive, and addicting to walk around. This is a special exception in which the creators want you to look around just as much, if not more, around the actual settings themselves.

   For the most part, the attractions do match the ambition of this park. From thrill coasters such as Stardust Racers, to the trackless dark ride Monsters Unchained, the park offers a palette of rides that feel technologically advanced and modern. Several reviewers refer to this park as among the most innovative in Orlando, according to Blooloop reporters who are known for their reviews and critiques on theme parks and roller coasters.

   Now, to speak of the ugly, Epic Universe is far from seamless. Early, as well as recent visitors such as myself, report that operational issues are the kryptonite to this utopian metropolis. This is mainly seen through the park’s most popular ride, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry. The ride is no exception to the early shutdowns and extended delays. The only other issue that glares in a reviewer’s spectacle is quite literally that glare itself. The park has virtually no shade. A lack of indoor attractions also does not help this issue. 

    However, it is imperative to view the Epic Universe within context. Brand new parks rarely open fully formed, and even critics have pointed out that there is a strong foundation and plenty of room for this concept to grow in the near future. Epic Universe is, in many different ways, exactly what its name promises: bold, innovative, and at times overwhelming. It is far from flawless, but it is absolutely worth a visit.