Universal Studios Florida: What Do We Think About It?

[GA-MBIT]

It's definitely curious. The park needs new developments ASAP. I understand logistically why EU expansion is important to keep that initial hype going for a longer period of time, but USF is so clearly struggling in so many different ways.

Pokemon in Simpsons, if done appropriately and with the same MO they seem to be taking with Mine Kart Madness, MoM, and Monsters, could be an incredible draw that really elevates the backside of the park. A proper daytime replacement for FFL is the least we can ask for. Supercharged, HRRR, and I'd argue Minion Mayhem are all prime spots for redevelopment. I would hope there'd be some pressing desire to see at least a good chunk of that figured out by 2030, when Disney's current expansion timeline seems to end.

We've talked forever about the faults of USF. Lack of variety and overuse of simulators/screenz, half-hearted additions, a number of the full-chest additions not living up to the hype, weird structure, lack of thematic cohesion. I'd argue the park has gotten better with time, but I really would love to see a full USF 3.0 as it were take place, and I think it's relatively necessary to keep it up to snuff with EU and IoA long-term.

 

[Cup_Of_Coffee]

Alicia has hinted that it's possible the HRRR replacement may not be on track (pardon the pun) to get rolling next year.

IF that's the case, Universal would not appear to feel any urgency to address this park's deficits as soon as possible post-Epic Universe. Their initial ticket offerings for Epic imply they're worried (to at least some degree) about attendance here, but there does not seem* to be a corresponding desire to get new (significant) projects into an active state... again, IF the HRRR replacement isn't materializing quickly.

*Based on what we know, which isn't everything, because none of us are in the rooms where the discussions are taking place.

I think Pokémon is going to be a Potter level, if not larger space wise, project than a new attraction. Feels like they’re waiting for construction to wind down on Epic before they commit to any timelines. That’s how it feels from a far. I don’t doubt Universal wants to continue building and building, but seeing a response to their biggest project in decades, as well as only having so many construction workers available, I can’t say I’m shocked.

We underestimate how massive of a project Epic Universe is and that unfortunately means uncertainty for the other 2 parks that have been open for 2 decades. Stinks but they’re next to get the bump, whenever that is.

 

[TheUniC6]

think Pokémon is going to be a Potter level, if not larger space wise, project than a new attraction. Feels like they’re waiting for construction to wind down on Epic before they commit to any timelines.

Perhaps this means maybe Universal (hopefully) is considering fast tracking Pokemon. Perhaps this may have something to do with the terms of the contract considering it seems like the version at USH will be the next thing addressed once Hollywood Drift comes online there.

 

[GAcoaster]

I have heard there is active development on two projects— HRRR and Fast & Furious. I don’t have any timelines, just word that work is happening to replace both in the not too distant future.

My suspicion is the new coaster is themed to F&F and the existing ride gets replaced with a new IP/ride system. Just a hunch…

 

[belloq87]

Getting rid of Supercharged for a completed different kind of attraction would be a great start.