Nintendo’s next theme park expansion could very well center around Pokémon, a franchise that has become a global cultural phenomenon since its debut in the 1990s. While Universal’s Epic Universe, which opened in May 2025, currently features a Super Nintendo World area themed around Mario and other Nintendo properties, there is growing speculation and industry interest in expanding Nintendo-themed attractions to include Pokémon, given its immense popularity and broad appeal.
Epic Universe is Universal Orlando’s newest theme park, spanning 750 acres and featuring multiple “portals” or themed lands, including Super Nintendo World. Since its opening, Universal has filed permits for a large 150,000 square foot expansion within the park, signaling that new attractions or lands are already in development. Although the exact theme of this expansion has not been officially announced, the size and location of the permit suggest it will be a significant guest-facing addition rather than a minor back-of-house facility[2][3][8].
Currently, the Nintendo presence at Epic Universe focuses on franchises like Mario, Luigi’s Mansion, and potentially The Legend of Zelda, as insiders have speculated. However, Pokémon stands out as a prime candidate for future expansion due to its massive fan base, extensive character roster, and multimedia presence spanning video games, trading cards, TV shows, movies, and merchandise. Pokémon’s appeal crosses generations and demographics, making it an ideal theme for a family-friendly, immersive attraction.
Pokémon-themed attractions could take many forms, from interactive rides and live shows to themed dining and retail experiences. The franchise’s core concept of capturing, training, and battling creatures offers rich storytelling and gameplay opportunities that could translate well into theme park experiences. For example, guests might engage in augmented reality Pokémon hunts, battle simulations, or explore environments modeled after iconic Pokémon regions like Kanto, Johto, or Galar.
From a business perspective, Nintendo has been cautious about licensing its properties for theme parks, but the success of Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan and now at Epic Universe demonstrates the potential for profitable expansions. Pokémon’s global brand strength and continuous content updates provide a steady stream of new material to keep a theme park land fresh and engaging over time.
Medical considerations related to theme park expansions, such as guest safety and health protocols, are critical. Theme parks must comply with stringent health and safety regulations to protect visitors, especially in interactive or physically engaging attractions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), theme parks should implement measures like crowd control, sanitation, and emergency medical services to minimize risks of injury or illness. Universal Orlando Resort, as a major operator, follows these authoritative guidelines to ensure guest well-being during expansions and new attraction openings.
In summary, while Universal has not officially confirmed a Pokémon-themed expansion at Epic Universe, the combination of recent permits, industry speculation, and Pokémon’s cultural prominence strongly suggest it is a likely direction for Nintendo’s next theme park venture. Such an expansion would build on the success of existing Nintendo lands and leverage Pokémon’s vast universe to create a unique, immersive experience that appeals to fans worldwide.
