Nope, this is a strictly non-Disney round. You can make a Universal, Six Flags, Cedar Fair park etc. or do your own thing, it just can't be Disney.
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So, You Want to be an Imagineer Season 17: The International Edition
- Thread starter TheOriginalTiki
- Start date
Nope, this is a strictly non-Disney round. You can make a Universal, Six Flags, Cedar Fair park etc. or do your own thing, it just can't be Disney.
FireMountain
Well-Known Member
Cedar Fair Press Conference, 2020.
"The Earth has 7 continents. Our parks currently span one continent; North America. That will all change in a 2021. It is my pleasure to announce the second continent to receive a Cedar Fair Theme Park; Antarctica.
You heard me right, we are building a park in Antarctica. Now I know what you may be thinking, 'Antarctica?! Really?! Antarctica is nearly inaccessible and uninhabitable to humans, why are you building a park there?' The answer is simple, it's not a park for humans. Antarctica is known for it's wide variety of penguins, so we have decided to make a small island off the coast of Antarctica just for them. Behold, the next Cedar Fair park, Playground for Penguins!"
-Matt Ouimet, 2020.
Challenge 4: Playground for Penguins
Entrance:
The penguins have to get into the park somehow, so there will be 4 bridges made out of wood connecting to the new island, where there at the end, there will be an ice carving in the ground, the carving says,
"Welcome to Cedar Fair's Playground for Penguins!"
Attractions:
Ice Sculptures:
The first thing in the park is the ice sculptures walk through attraction, the attraction will be housed in a big block of ice.
Inside, the penguins will see ice sculptures of Penguins, Polar Bears, Fish, and Snoopy. As well as ice models of Cedar Point, Kings Dominion, Knott's Berry Farm, Carowinds, and Canada's Wonderland. There are several Ice-made Dioramas telling the story of classic fairy tales such as Little Red Riding Hood and Humpty Dumpty. At the end there is an "Ice Mirror" which uses screens and augmented reality to turn the penguins walking by into ice.
Fresh Fish Pond:
Every theme park needs a dining experience, so how do you fit one in a park for penguins? Well, Penguins are known for eating fish. So there is a small pond filled to the brim with fish, ripe for eating! There are dozens of different fish, so each meal may be different.
Ice Racers:
The Ice Racers is a pair of small slides spanning half the island. Two penguins are meant to slide down, the one that gets to the end first wins!
The Fun Slide:
The Fun Slide is undoubtedly the largest attraction at Playground for Penguins, going under the entire island!
The penguins walk up to a sign that says "Fun Slide" with a large slope underneath.
The penguin go down the slope, taking them under the island, after that they make a U-turn before making a slight right.
After that, there's another U-turn, followed by a right, a left, another right, and another left, followed by 2 rights and a left, and then a right and 2 lefts. The entire layout is shown below.
Towards the end, there is one long line of ice, this is the most important scene on the slide. Because multicolored lights shine throughout it, creating a beautiful experience for the penguins. After another U-turn, the penguins fly out a hole in the side of the island into the water below (Don't worry, they can get back up via ramp).
Opening Day:
Playground for Penguins opened on Friday, March 18th, 2022. Only 5 people showed up to opening day, 2 of them were Cedar Fair execs, 1 won a radio contest, and the other 2 were just tourists somehow found a way to Antarctica. However dozens of penguins showed up to the park on opening day, just listen to what they had to say!
Cedar Fair livestreamed the opening on YouTube, where over 100,000 people tuned in.
To make sure that humans didn't miss out on the fun, Cedar Fair put cameras throughout the park and put up live feed of the park on their website. And every 5 minutes, a special, waterproof camera will go down the Fun Slide.
"When building a theme park, companies think of it as something only humans can enjoy. We here at Cedar Fair have created the world's first theme park for Penguins. So, no matter the type, Emperor, King, Adélie , all are welcome. Welcome to Playground for Penguins!"
-Matt Ouimet, 2022
"The Earth has 7 continents. Our parks currently span one continent; North America. That will all change in a 2021. It is my pleasure to announce the second continent to receive a Cedar Fair Theme Park; Antarctica.
You heard me right, we are building a park in Antarctica. Now I know what you may be thinking, 'Antarctica?! Really?! Antarctica is nearly inaccessible and uninhabitable to humans, why are you building a park there?' The answer is simple, it's not a park for humans. Antarctica is known for it's wide variety of penguins, so we have decided to make a small island off the coast of Antarctica just for them. Behold, the next Cedar Fair park, Playground for Penguins!"
-Matt Ouimet, 2020.
Challenge 4: Playground for Penguins
Entrance:
The penguins have to get into the park somehow, so there will be 4 bridges made out of wood connecting to the new island, where there at the end, there will be an ice carving in the ground, the carving says,
"Welcome to Cedar Fair's Playground for Penguins!"
Attractions:
Ice Sculptures:
The first thing in the park is the ice sculptures walk through attraction, the attraction will be housed in a big block of ice.
Inside, the penguins will see ice sculptures of Penguins, Polar Bears, Fish, and Snoopy. As well as ice models of Cedar Point, Kings Dominion, Knott's Berry Farm, Carowinds, and Canada's Wonderland. There are several Ice-made Dioramas telling the story of classic fairy tales such as Little Red Riding Hood and Humpty Dumpty. At the end there is an "Ice Mirror" which uses screens and augmented reality to turn the penguins walking by into ice.
Fresh Fish Pond:
Every theme park needs a dining experience, so how do you fit one in a park for penguins? Well, Penguins are known for eating fish. So there is a small pond filled to the brim with fish, ripe for eating! There are dozens of different fish, so each meal may be different.
Ice Racers:
The Ice Racers is a pair of small slides spanning half the island. Two penguins are meant to slide down, the one that gets to the end first wins!
The Fun Slide:
The Fun Slide is undoubtedly the largest attraction at Playground for Penguins, going under the entire island!
The penguins walk up to a sign that says "Fun Slide" with a large slope underneath.
The penguin go down the slope, taking them under the island, after that they make a U-turn before making a slight right.
After that, there's another U-turn, followed by a right, a left, another right, and another left, followed by 2 rights and a left, and then a right and 2 lefts. The entire layout is shown below.
Towards the end, there is one long line of ice, this is the most important scene on the slide. Because multicolored lights shine throughout it, creating a beautiful experience for the penguins. After another U-turn, the penguins fly out a hole in the side of the island into the water below (Don't worry, they can get back up via ramp).
Opening Day:
Playground for Penguins opened on Friday, March 18th, 2022. Only 5 people showed up to opening day, 2 of them were Cedar Fair execs, 1 won a radio contest, and the other 2 were just tourists somehow found a way to Antarctica. However dozens of penguins showed up to the park on opening day, just listen to what they had to say!
Cedar Fair livestreamed the opening on YouTube, where over 100,000 people tuned in.
To make sure that humans didn't miss out on the fun, Cedar Fair put cameras throughout the park and put up live feed of the park on their website. And every 5 minutes, a special, waterproof camera will go down the Fun Slide.
"When building a theme park, companies think of it as something only humans can enjoy. We here at Cedar Fair have created the world's first theme park for Penguins. So, no matter the type, Emperor, King, Adélie , all are welcome. Welcome to Playground for Penguins!"
-Matt Ouimet, 2022
Last edited:
Basketbuddy101
Well-Known Member
Pooh, my hiatus lasted too long. Would’ve liked to join. Unlikely as it may be, if there’s an opportunity to join in some form, would appreciate the opportunity.
spacemt354
Chili's
Pretty sure in this season you can jump in at any point. We are 3 challenges in so far (on the 4th now) If you do decide to return, welcome back (Sir) Basketbuddy!
Basketbuddy101
Well-Known Member
Would love to, but I imagine that'd be up to @TheOriginalTiki
spacemt354
Chili's
Are you kidding me, I'd LOVE to see any and all potential Basketbuddy projects!
Basketbuddy101
Well-Known Member
Then I’m in 
Don't forget tonight's the night to turn in the projects. Unfortunately Ace and I have been having our usual bad luck at scheduling when it comes to the podcast. I'm going through my Rolodex trying to find a substitute co-host so we can do a podcast before the projects are due, but I can't make any promises.
spacemt354
Chili's
spacemt354: Project 4 - Tier Six Project
Universal Studios Johannesburg
Johannesburg, South Africa
The year is 2018. Universal Parks & Resorts, seeing the potential success of Disney Parks & Resorts celebrating WDW's 50th anniversary in lavish style in the coming years, set to regain their place in the arms race of theme parks after a series of calamities that have impeded their progress. In their flagship resort, Universal Orlando, the coveted Nintendo property has been continuously delayed due to wariness of whether to place a land in Kidzone or wait for their next park to be built in the future.
In an attempt to expand their brand more globally than Disney, Universal proposed 3 new resorts over a 5 year span, which included Universal Studios Beijing, Universal Studios Moscow, and Universal Studios South Korea -- to add to their already impressive lineup of Orlando, Hollywood, Japan, and Singapore. Nevertheless, due to local financial impediments of building an indoor theme park in Moscow, setbacks with the opening of Universal Studios Beijing, as well as a need to step out of the box of their stereotypical park and try something new, Universal Creative went back to the drawing board to try and find a location nobody, not even Disney, had ever suggested before - expanding their brand to new territories that already appreciate their films products in recent memory.
The idea was Universal Studios Johannesburg, located in the country of South Africa and the first ever Universal (or Disney for that matter) theme park resort on the continent of Africa!
Extensive planning and community research went into the decision before the board members of Universal decided to give it the green light and begin construction. Several questions needed to be met.
Why Johannesburg?
One of the 50 most populated urban areas in the world with over 9 million people in its limits, Johannesburg, South Africa has several appealing attributes that make it a prime location for the global expansion of the Universal Parks & Resorts brand.
Foremost, Johannesburg is an alpha global city that links major economic states and regions to the world economy, along the ranks of Los Angeles, CA, Sydney, Australia and Seoul, South Korea. Its high urban population ensures a volume of the guests at Universal Studios Johannesburg would be locals, supplementing the economy with increased local job opportunity and tourism.
As seen from the graphs above, Johannesburg is also over 8,000 miles from the flagship resort in Orlando, as well as thousands of miles away from its other resorts in Japan, Hollywood, and Singapore. This makes it a unique commodity for the region, something that while avid Universal fans might travel from far and wide to visit, it will be able to sustain itself with the local population who might not have the opportunity to visit other Universal resorts around the world.
The incentive is also compounded when you look at the fact that Johannesburg's primary language is English. Rather than have everything in Japanese, Chinese, or another language, you don't have to worry about a language barrier in Johannesburg. Furthermore, past box office numbers from South Africa show that locals tend to enjoy Universal films - with the top grossing film in 2017 being Fast & Furious 8. Moreover, 3 of the top 4 Box Office films of the year in South Africa were Universal films (F&F, Despicable Me 3, and Fifty Shades Darker, though the latter we will not be seeing anywhere close to a family theme park
)
The climate in Johannesburg is sunny and mostly warm given its location in the subtropics. In the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are flipped, with November - February being the warmest months (averaging a high of approx 85 degrees Fahrenheit) and May through July being the 'coldest' (averaging a high of 70 degrees Fahrenheit). Snow is a very rare occurrence in Johannesburg, and in the summers, expect an afternoon thunderstorm or two (basically Florida in the summer, with an increased UV index due to the higher elevation, so wear sunscreen!)
Where in Johannesburg?
Located approximately 8-10 miles south of the urban city, and within decent range of the international airport for foreign travelers, Universal Studios Johannesburg will sit on a plot of land outside of the main city. Free of pollution and volume, the resort will be a destination for the people of Johannesburg, allowing them to feel outside of the city while still being close to home.
What is Going in Johannesburg?
When planning out the designs for what type of park would go in Universal Studios Johannasburg, the board members at Universal Creative looked at the theme park rankings based on 2017 data to assess where Universal parks feel, and what was ahead of them globally.
#4 - Universal Studios Japan: 14,935,000 (opened 2001)
#10 - Universal Studios Florida: 10,198,000 (opened 1990)
#14 - Islands of Adventure: 9,549,000 (opened 1999)
#15 - Universal Studios Hollywood: 9,056,000 (opened 1964)
#25 - Universal Studios Singapore: 4,220,000 (opened 2011)
And they looked at new parks such as Shanghai Disneyland, which just 2 years in is already at 11,000,000 for 2017 attendance, whereas Universal Studios Singapore after 8 years is only hovering around 4.2 Million. What's the reason for this? And how can Universal Studios Johannasburg not suffer the same fate of Singapore?
The answer the board came up with is allowing Universal Creative to pave their own way with in-park storylines, cohesive land designs, rather than simply inserting IP after IP, screen after screen, in an attempt to satisfy a popularized film. While box office numbers in South Africa show that they do enjoy Universal films, that excitement might entice them to be interested in a Universal theme park, but the design of the theme park itself will keep them coming back and bring more guests as well.
For Universal Studios Johannesburg, the creative designers took advantage of the subtropical climate and designed an expedition-based theme park, one that mixed the exploration of something like Tokyo DisneySea, while facilitated with the environment of an Animal Kingdom - but surfaced throughout the entire park.
The theme park park is divided into various 'adventure' lands.
Tiki Oasis
The entry land into the park, immerses you into an exotic and exploration environment
Donkey Kong Country
Themed to Donkey Kong from Nintendo, this will be the 2nd Nintendo based land in Universal Parks after the opening in Japan.
Island of Madagascar
A mini-land, akin to Critter Country, that is primed for future expansion after opening day.
Isla Nublar
The classic film Jurassic Park is put on display in this completely immersive island endeavor.
Lost Jungle
A mysterious shipwreck, native tribes, and a quest to find your way out greet you in this unique neo-horror/thriller.
The Forbidden Forest
A spin-off on the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, focused on the Hogwarts Grounds, Whomping Willow, Hogsmeade, and Shrieking Shack.
Opening Day Park Map
The opening day park map will feature those six lands as well as plenty of space to expand in the future, denoted by the empty green areas surrounding the park's brim.
With a planned opening date of November 2023 - Universal Studios Johannesburg will open along with an adjacent premiere category Mediterranean Resort & Spa, CityWalk Shopping and Dining Center, Good Neighbor Hotels of the Hilton and Marriott, as well as complimentary Universal Shuttle Transportation to and from O.R. Tambo International Airport for traveling guests.
Universal Studios Johannesburg
Johannesburg, South Africa
The year is 2018. Universal Parks & Resorts, seeing the potential success of Disney Parks & Resorts celebrating WDW's 50th anniversary in lavish style in the coming years, set to regain their place in the arms race of theme parks after a series of calamities that have impeded their progress. In their flagship resort, Universal Orlando, the coveted Nintendo property has been continuously delayed due to wariness of whether to place a land in Kidzone or wait for their next park to be built in the future.
In an attempt to expand their brand more globally than Disney, Universal proposed 3 new resorts over a 5 year span, which included Universal Studios Beijing, Universal Studios Moscow, and Universal Studios South Korea -- to add to their already impressive lineup of Orlando, Hollywood, Japan, and Singapore. Nevertheless, due to local financial impediments of building an indoor theme park in Moscow, setbacks with the opening of Universal Studios Beijing, as well as a need to step out of the box of their stereotypical park and try something new, Universal Creative went back to the drawing board to try and find a location nobody, not even Disney, had ever suggested before - expanding their brand to new territories that already appreciate their films products in recent memory.
The idea was Universal Studios Johannesburg, located in the country of South Africa and the first ever Universal (or Disney for that matter) theme park resort on the continent of Africa!
Extensive planning and community research went into the decision before the board members of Universal decided to give it the green light and begin construction. Several questions needed to be met.
Why Johannesburg?
One of the 50 most populated urban areas in the world with over 9 million people in its limits, Johannesburg, South Africa has several appealing attributes that make it a prime location for the global expansion of the Universal Parks & Resorts brand.
Foremost, Johannesburg is an alpha global city that links major economic states and regions to the world economy, along the ranks of Los Angeles, CA, Sydney, Australia and Seoul, South Korea. Its high urban population ensures a volume of the guests at Universal Studios Johannesburg would be locals, supplementing the economy with increased local job opportunity and tourism.
As seen from the graphs above, Johannesburg is also over 8,000 miles from the flagship resort in Orlando, as well as thousands of miles away from its other resorts in Japan, Hollywood, and Singapore. This makes it a unique commodity for the region, something that while avid Universal fans might travel from far and wide to visit, it will be able to sustain itself with the local population who might not have the opportunity to visit other Universal resorts around the world.
The incentive is also compounded when you look at the fact that Johannesburg's primary language is English. Rather than have everything in Japanese, Chinese, or another language, you don't have to worry about a language barrier in Johannesburg. Furthermore, past box office numbers from South Africa show that locals tend to enjoy Universal films - with the top grossing film in 2017 being Fast & Furious 8. Moreover, 3 of the top 4 Box Office films of the year in South Africa were Universal films (F&F, Despicable Me 3, and Fifty Shades Darker, though the latter we will not be seeing anywhere close to a family theme park
)The climate in Johannesburg is sunny and mostly warm given its location in the subtropics. In the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are flipped, with November - February being the warmest months (averaging a high of approx 85 degrees Fahrenheit) and May through July being the 'coldest' (averaging a high of 70 degrees Fahrenheit). Snow is a very rare occurrence in Johannesburg, and in the summers, expect an afternoon thunderstorm or two (basically Florida in the summer, with an increased UV index due to the higher elevation, so wear sunscreen!)
Where in Johannesburg?
Located approximately 8-10 miles south of the urban city, and within decent range of the international airport for foreign travelers, Universal Studios Johannesburg will sit on a plot of land outside of the main city. Free of pollution and volume, the resort will be a destination for the people of Johannesburg, allowing them to feel outside of the city while still being close to home.
What is Going in Johannesburg?
When planning out the designs for what type of park would go in Universal Studios Johannasburg, the board members at Universal Creative looked at the theme park rankings based on 2017 data to assess where Universal parks feel, and what was ahead of them globally.
#4 - Universal Studios Japan: 14,935,000 (opened 2001)
#10 - Universal Studios Florida: 10,198,000 (opened 1990)
#14 - Islands of Adventure: 9,549,000 (opened 1999)
#15 - Universal Studios Hollywood: 9,056,000 (opened 1964)
#25 - Universal Studios Singapore: 4,220,000 (opened 2011)
And they looked at new parks such as Shanghai Disneyland, which just 2 years in is already at 11,000,000 for 2017 attendance, whereas Universal Studios Singapore after 8 years is only hovering around 4.2 Million. What's the reason for this? And how can Universal Studios Johannasburg not suffer the same fate of Singapore?
The answer the board came up with is allowing Universal Creative to pave their own way with in-park storylines, cohesive land designs, rather than simply inserting IP after IP, screen after screen, in an attempt to satisfy a popularized film. While box office numbers in South Africa show that they do enjoy Universal films, that excitement might entice them to be interested in a Universal theme park, but the design of the theme park itself will keep them coming back and bring more guests as well.
For Universal Studios Johannesburg, the creative designers took advantage of the subtropical climate and designed an expedition-based theme park, one that mixed the exploration of something like Tokyo DisneySea, while facilitated with the environment of an Animal Kingdom - but surfaced throughout the entire park.
The theme park park is divided into various 'adventure' lands.
Tiki Oasis
The entry land into the park, immerses you into an exotic and exploration environment
Donkey Kong Country
Themed to Donkey Kong from Nintendo, this will be the 2nd Nintendo based land in Universal Parks after the opening in Japan.
Island of Madagascar
A mini-land, akin to Critter Country, that is primed for future expansion after opening day.
Isla Nublar
The classic film Jurassic Park is put on display in this completely immersive island endeavor.
Lost Jungle
A mysterious shipwreck, native tribes, and a quest to find your way out greet you in this unique neo-horror/thriller.
The Forbidden Forest
A spin-off on the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, focused on the Hogwarts Grounds, Whomping Willow, Hogsmeade, and Shrieking Shack.
Opening Day Park Map
The opening day park map will feature those six lands as well as plenty of space to expand in the future, denoted by the empty green areas surrounding the park's brim.
With a planned opening date of November 2023 - Universal Studios Johannesburg will open along with an adjacent premiere category Mediterranean Resort & Spa, CityWalk Shopping and Dining Center, Good Neighbor Hotels of the Hilton and Marriott, as well as complimentary Universal Shuttle Transportation to and from O.R. Tambo International Airport for traveling guests.
Land by Land Analysis
Tiki Oasis
As a guest you are swept up into a shipwreck on a tropical island in South Pacific. As you travel deeper you can see inhabitants of this local town of Kahakai (Hawaiin for seaside). Inside, merchants and traders thrive off the seafaring economy, locals live among the 2nd and 3rd story windows of quaint little balconies and apartments, with small stores lining the bottom of the buildings. Cobble stone streets and shingled roof formations populate the region. In the distance, guests can see the adventure that awaits them, as a towering 210 foot tall Mount Mystery creeps on the horizon, hiding a roaring train of passengers from a dangerous mission. You've officially been transported to an adventurous world.
1 - Hemisphere Outpost
As part of the Universal Film Club, this is an exclusive perk-filled location that has specialty rates at Universal Parks & Resorts around the world, as well as a tropical signature dining option overlooking Tiki Oasis. The Universal Film Club is a membership that guests of Universal Parks may join, offering membership perks of exclusive dining offers, discounts on resort hotels, food, merchandise, and more.
2 - Guest Relations
Nautically themed explorer relation desks for guests to ask about park maps, lockers, help or assistance with first-aid, and more. Guests can also download the Universal app from the Apple or Google Play stores and have a digital map of the resort always available on their smartphones or other devices.
3 - Paradise Traders
Gift shop selling Universal merchandise as well as other assorted items such as ponchos, sunscreen, and more that guests might need on their travels.
4 - Fountain of Discovery
A secondary icon of the park situated in front of Mount Mystery, it is said to be guarded by water spirits of the deep Pacific harboring a dark secret of the land. As guests walk past the fountain, they can gaze up at the massive 50 foot tall sprouts of water it ejects from the hillside below.
5 - Captain Flip's Explorer Trails
One of the natives of Tiki Oasis - Captain Flip is a bit of a jolly yet bumbling old man who enjoys hiking and exploring the Oasis. Many times his maps and directions, as well as custom paths he has created tend to send guests on whirling trips through the jungle, so be on the look out for some dead ends and other comical events along your way.
6 - Treasure of the Falls
A table service restaurant situated north of the center of town in the Oasis, and closer to the water's edge. This tranquil setting is the perfect location to relax and unwind after a long day at the park - with moderately affordable family prices, this 260 seat restaurant offers menu items themed to South Pacific and Hawaiian offerings. Pinapple pulled-pork burgers are one of the top items, as well as the Mahi-Mahi, Macadamia nut pizza. Est. Price Range: Adult: $20-35, Child: $10-20
7 - Boat to Hogwarts
On the shores of the Tiki Oasis, you can set sail for the Forbidden Forest of the United Kingdom and board a mystical boat to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. There you will set out on an magical adventure for the whole family to enjoy.
Donkey Kong Country
Home to the famous Donkey Kong and family, this Nintendo immersive experience is the second stepping stone from Universal Studios Japan in terms of Nintendo in the Universal Parks. While it is inspired by some of the flux items that are intended to go into Universal Orlando, it expands specifically on the property that allows Nintendo characters to take place within an 'adventure' setting - inside a forest of palm trees, mountains, vines, and foliage, to add an experience to Universal parks that guests have never seen before.
8 - Donkey Kong Tropical Freeze
Using an augmented reality environment, you'll be transported into the world of multiple Donkey Kong levels as if you're involved with the game yourself. This psuedo-hybrid mix between a mini-roller coaster and a 4D shooter experience will take you on a rockiking ride through various indoor levels of the game before a final boss battle decides your ultimate fate. The attraction as a height requirement of 36 inches, which is relatively small enough so that most fans of the game will be tall enough to experience this family attraction.
9 - Tiki Tak Tribal Twirl
A flat ride that takes guests in banana barrels and swirls them around a curved and bank sloped design, adding a bit of thrill to an otherwise tame flat ride experience.
10 - Kiddy Kong Treehouse
A walk-through treehouse that takes guests up approximately 45 feet in the air, which offers them great, unobstructed views of the Lost Jungle, Tiki Oasis, Island of Madagascar, and Isla Nublar, as well as Donkey Kong Country right below it.
11 - Banana Bistro
A quick-service restaurant that is designed to look like the 'settings' menu of a Nintendo devices, as you select from a menu your different Nintendo/Donkey Kong themed items.
12 - Island Mercantile
A quaint gift shop selling Nintendo and Donkey Kong merchandise.
Island of Madagascar
With the Island of Madagascar actually nearby South Africa and the Cape of Good Hope reference in the film, Madagascar is a popular franchise that has stood the test of time and fits within the narrative of an exploration style Universal theme park. While the mini-land is small compared to the other offerings in the park - if received well by guests it is a prime location to expand, similar to how Pixar Place in Disney's Hollywood Studios became Toy Story Land with an expansion to a pre-existing attraction and franchise.
13 - Journey of Good Hope
With the actual Island of Madagascar off the shores of South Africa, and the Cape of Good Hope being a central premise in the film, the popular Madagascar franchise from Dreamworks makes its way into the park; a park focused on adventure and exploration which the film franchise has plenty of. This mini-land on opening day will only feature one attraction, but similar to Pixar Place's transformation into Toy Story Land, the property has room to expand if popular enough down the line. The Journey of Good Hope takes guests on a dark ride adventure which picks up after the animals crash land on Madagascar. You travel through the dense jungles, sing I Like to Move It Move It with the rambunctious King Julian, as well as trek along with the main characters as they decide whether or not to try and return home, or if this is their home. The 7 minute adventure boasts 35 animatronics as a signature score.
14 - Ocean Breeze
A small gift shop at the transition point between Madagascar and the Lost Jungle, doubling as both a Madagascar merchandise location as well as park necessities similar to Paradise Traders at the front entrance of the park.
15 - Skyway to Nublar
Similar to the entrance in the film, now you'll board one of John Hammond's 'helicopter' skyways to Islan Nublar as the infamous score from Jurassic Park plays you there.
Isla Nublar
As you approach the island, you are breathless at the sheer scale of the towering 120 foot tall forced perspective mountain range that covers the adventure that awaits. As your skyway (or walkway if you choose) descends and you begin to enter the land, you can approach the visitors center, dine among cuisine that was spared no expense, or board the 'soft-opening' of the park's signature attraction - Jurassic Park Expeditions.
16 - Jurassic Park Expeditions
Boarding the explorer vehicles, you and your party are taken off on an adventure through Jurassic Park. Passing through the massive archway and gates, you enter a world lost in time, see magnificent audio-animatronic creatures that completely immerse you in the world. When word gets out the the electrical power grid is faulty, your vehicles take off and traverse around the park before going off road and in a great escape from raptors and the tyrannical T-Rex. Height Requirement of 40 inches. May Frighten Small Children.
17 - Mr. DNA Showcase
A 20 minute show explaining the universe in a Carousel of Progress format - this rotating theater attraction shows off the Jurassic Park laboratories, as well as the scientific basis behind the discoveries. Shows run daily.
18 - Herbavore Trails
Walking trails through the wilderness where you may encounter some plant-eating creatures and other animatonic beings throughout your endeavor.
19 - Visitors Center: Hammond Hall
A table servace restaurant along with a merchanside location as you exit, this restaurant has a wide variety of cuisine, from fish, meats, chicken, veggies, and more. Price Range Adult $30-40, Children: $20-25
20 - Skyway to Madagascar
The return journey on the skyway across the Explorer Harbor Lagoon and back towards Madagascar.
Lost Jungle
One of the most innovative lands Universal Creative has ever designed, the Lost Jungle is an interconnected series of attractions that tells the story of explorers around the world lurking for what is known as Mount Mystery, deep within an island off the shores of South America. This island is said to be known to relics and treasures unlike the world has ever seen. Many of the attractions within the land are the explorer attempts to find these relics and explore the 'Lost Jungle' island - nevertheless, on many of these journeys, they find more than what they bargained for on their quests.
21 - Trek to the Great Beyond
Set within Mount Mystery, legend has it that deep within the mountain there is an ancient relic that leads the user to a magical city. Those that have tried to find this relic have said that terrifying creatures prowl the depths of the mountain, and send explores up and down the range trying to get them to leave the mountain's edge. As guests enter the mountain's base, they trek through the queue in the small town of Artisan. Walking through the village shops and artifacts, you wind up inside traveling with an explorer team who wishes to find this relic once and for all. What awaits is a thrilling roller coaster ride designed by Rocky Mountain Construction. An incredible 200 foot tall behemoth of an attraction that contains 3 inversions, 20 seconds of air-time total, as well as continuously going in an out of the mountain's interior, haunted by the monstrous spirits that lurk inside. Guests must be at least 52 inches tall to ride.
22 - Rendezvous Mission Tasks
Family adventures that can be done on the Universal smartphone app - follow along as your trek guide leads you to several points of interest in the Lost Jungle. There are two ports of call - one by Mystical Flight and the other by Great Beyond, connecting the two attractions in the land's interconnected story.
23 - Wild Theater
A theater with rotating seasonal live-action shows pertaining to Prescott the Great - an ancient warrior of the Lost Jungle. His story is told through vignettes of his life as he pursues the knowledge and wisdom that exploration of this world provides. 30 minute shows, check times guide for more information. Theater holds 2,000 guests per show.
24 - Legend Trails
Walking trails along the base of Mount Mystery.
25 - Mystical Flight
A flying inverted coaster, making Universal Johannesburg a beakon of thrill along with plentiful family options to explore. Mystical Flight is a continuation of the over-arching story of exploration in the land. Two scientists in the late 1800s wanted to learn more about the jungles and they thought they could do more from above. And they developed a sort of flying contraption that they hoped would be able to allow them to research from the treetops above. As you hold on to try and keep flight with the wind, this dueling coaster sweeps through the jungle treetops, loops through 5 inversions, and packs a non-stop punch into the 1:30 minutes of coaster track. Guests must be at least 48 inches to ride.
26 - Port of Call
A quick service option for explorers on the go - servicing sandwiches, burgers, fries, and more 'quick' food to power you up for your next adventure.
Tiki Oasis
As a guest you are swept up into a shipwreck on a tropical island in South Pacific. As you travel deeper you can see inhabitants of this local town of Kahakai (Hawaiin for seaside). Inside, merchants and traders thrive off the seafaring economy, locals live among the 2nd and 3rd story windows of quaint little balconies and apartments, with small stores lining the bottom of the buildings. Cobble stone streets and shingled roof formations populate the region. In the distance, guests can see the adventure that awaits them, as a towering 210 foot tall Mount Mystery creeps on the horizon, hiding a roaring train of passengers from a dangerous mission. You've officially been transported to an adventurous world.
1 - Hemisphere Outpost
As part of the Universal Film Club, this is an exclusive perk-filled location that has specialty rates at Universal Parks & Resorts around the world, as well as a tropical signature dining option overlooking Tiki Oasis. The Universal Film Club is a membership that guests of Universal Parks may join, offering membership perks of exclusive dining offers, discounts on resort hotels, food, merchandise, and more.
2 - Guest Relations
Nautically themed explorer relation desks for guests to ask about park maps, lockers, help or assistance with first-aid, and more. Guests can also download the Universal app from the Apple or Google Play stores and have a digital map of the resort always available on their smartphones or other devices.
3 - Paradise Traders
Gift shop selling Universal merchandise as well as other assorted items such as ponchos, sunscreen, and more that guests might need on their travels.
4 - Fountain of Discovery
A secondary icon of the park situated in front of Mount Mystery, it is said to be guarded by water spirits of the deep Pacific harboring a dark secret of the land. As guests walk past the fountain, they can gaze up at the massive 50 foot tall sprouts of water it ejects from the hillside below.
5 - Captain Flip's Explorer Trails
One of the natives of Tiki Oasis - Captain Flip is a bit of a jolly yet bumbling old man who enjoys hiking and exploring the Oasis. Many times his maps and directions, as well as custom paths he has created tend to send guests on whirling trips through the jungle, so be on the look out for some dead ends and other comical events along your way.
6 - Treasure of the Falls
A table service restaurant situated north of the center of town in the Oasis, and closer to the water's edge. This tranquil setting is the perfect location to relax and unwind after a long day at the park - with moderately affordable family prices, this 260 seat restaurant offers menu items themed to South Pacific and Hawaiian offerings. Pinapple pulled-pork burgers are one of the top items, as well as the Mahi-Mahi, Macadamia nut pizza. Est. Price Range: Adult: $20-35, Child: $10-20
7 - Boat to Hogwarts
On the shores of the Tiki Oasis, you can set sail for the Forbidden Forest of the United Kingdom and board a mystical boat to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. There you will set out on an magical adventure for the whole family to enjoy.
Donkey Kong Country
Home to the famous Donkey Kong and family, this Nintendo immersive experience is the second stepping stone from Universal Studios Japan in terms of Nintendo in the Universal Parks. While it is inspired by some of the flux items that are intended to go into Universal Orlando, it expands specifically on the property that allows Nintendo characters to take place within an 'adventure' setting - inside a forest of palm trees, mountains, vines, and foliage, to add an experience to Universal parks that guests have never seen before.
8 - Donkey Kong Tropical Freeze
Using an augmented reality environment, you'll be transported into the world of multiple Donkey Kong levels as if you're involved with the game yourself. This psuedo-hybrid mix between a mini-roller coaster and a 4D shooter experience will take you on a rockiking ride through various indoor levels of the game before a final boss battle decides your ultimate fate. The attraction as a height requirement of 36 inches, which is relatively small enough so that most fans of the game will be tall enough to experience this family attraction.
9 - Tiki Tak Tribal Twirl
A flat ride that takes guests in banana barrels and swirls them around a curved and bank sloped design, adding a bit of thrill to an otherwise tame flat ride experience.
10 - Kiddy Kong Treehouse
A walk-through treehouse that takes guests up approximately 45 feet in the air, which offers them great, unobstructed views of the Lost Jungle, Tiki Oasis, Island of Madagascar, and Isla Nublar, as well as Donkey Kong Country right below it.
11 - Banana Bistro
A quick-service restaurant that is designed to look like the 'settings' menu of a Nintendo devices, as you select from a menu your different Nintendo/Donkey Kong themed items.
12 - Island Mercantile
A quaint gift shop selling Nintendo and Donkey Kong merchandise.
Island of Madagascar
With the Island of Madagascar actually nearby South Africa and the Cape of Good Hope reference in the film, Madagascar is a popular franchise that has stood the test of time and fits within the narrative of an exploration style Universal theme park. While the mini-land is small compared to the other offerings in the park - if received well by guests it is a prime location to expand, similar to how Pixar Place in Disney's Hollywood Studios became Toy Story Land with an expansion to a pre-existing attraction and franchise.
13 - Journey of Good Hope
With the actual Island of Madagascar off the shores of South Africa, and the Cape of Good Hope being a central premise in the film, the popular Madagascar franchise from Dreamworks makes its way into the park; a park focused on adventure and exploration which the film franchise has plenty of. This mini-land on opening day will only feature one attraction, but similar to Pixar Place's transformation into Toy Story Land, the property has room to expand if popular enough down the line. The Journey of Good Hope takes guests on a dark ride adventure which picks up after the animals crash land on Madagascar. You travel through the dense jungles, sing I Like to Move It Move It with the rambunctious King Julian, as well as trek along with the main characters as they decide whether or not to try and return home, or if this is their home. The 7 minute adventure boasts 35 animatronics as a signature score.
14 - Ocean Breeze
A small gift shop at the transition point between Madagascar and the Lost Jungle, doubling as both a Madagascar merchandise location as well as park necessities similar to Paradise Traders at the front entrance of the park.
15 - Skyway to Nublar
Similar to the entrance in the film, now you'll board one of John Hammond's 'helicopter' skyways to Islan Nublar as the infamous score from Jurassic Park plays you there.
Isla Nublar
As you approach the island, you are breathless at the sheer scale of the towering 120 foot tall forced perspective mountain range that covers the adventure that awaits. As your skyway (or walkway if you choose) descends and you begin to enter the land, you can approach the visitors center, dine among cuisine that was spared no expense, or board the 'soft-opening' of the park's signature attraction - Jurassic Park Expeditions.
16 - Jurassic Park Expeditions
Boarding the explorer vehicles, you and your party are taken off on an adventure through Jurassic Park. Passing through the massive archway and gates, you enter a world lost in time, see magnificent audio-animatronic creatures that completely immerse you in the world. When word gets out the the electrical power grid is faulty, your vehicles take off and traverse around the park before going off road and in a great escape from raptors and the tyrannical T-Rex. Height Requirement of 40 inches. May Frighten Small Children.
17 - Mr. DNA Showcase
A 20 minute show explaining the universe in a Carousel of Progress format - this rotating theater attraction shows off the Jurassic Park laboratories, as well as the scientific basis behind the discoveries. Shows run daily.
18 - Herbavore Trails
Walking trails through the wilderness where you may encounter some plant-eating creatures and other animatonic beings throughout your endeavor.
19 - Visitors Center: Hammond Hall
A table servace restaurant along with a merchanside location as you exit, this restaurant has a wide variety of cuisine, from fish, meats, chicken, veggies, and more. Price Range Adult $30-40, Children: $20-25
20 - Skyway to Madagascar
The return journey on the skyway across the Explorer Harbor Lagoon and back towards Madagascar.
Lost Jungle
One of the most innovative lands Universal Creative has ever designed, the Lost Jungle is an interconnected series of attractions that tells the story of explorers around the world lurking for what is known as Mount Mystery, deep within an island off the shores of South America. This island is said to be known to relics and treasures unlike the world has ever seen. Many of the attractions within the land are the explorer attempts to find these relics and explore the 'Lost Jungle' island - nevertheless, on many of these journeys, they find more than what they bargained for on their quests.
21 - Trek to the Great Beyond
Set within Mount Mystery, legend has it that deep within the mountain there is an ancient relic that leads the user to a magical city. Those that have tried to find this relic have said that terrifying creatures prowl the depths of the mountain, and send explores up and down the range trying to get them to leave the mountain's edge. As guests enter the mountain's base, they trek through the queue in the small town of Artisan. Walking through the village shops and artifacts, you wind up inside traveling with an explorer team who wishes to find this relic once and for all. What awaits is a thrilling roller coaster ride designed by Rocky Mountain Construction. An incredible 200 foot tall behemoth of an attraction that contains 3 inversions, 20 seconds of air-time total, as well as continuously going in an out of the mountain's interior, haunted by the monstrous spirits that lurk inside. Guests must be at least 52 inches tall to ride.
22 - Rendezvous Mission Tasks
Family adventures that can be done on the Universal smartphone app - follow along as your trek guide leads you to several points of interest in the Lost Jungle. There are two ports of call - one by Mystical Flight and the other by Great Beyond, connecting the two attractions in the land's interconnected story.
23 - Wild Theater
A theater with rotating seasonal live-action shows pertaining to Prescott the Great - an ancient warrior of the Lost Jungle. His story is told through vignettes of his life as he pursues the knowledge and wisdom that exploration of this world provides. 30 minute shows, check times guide for more information. Theater holds 2,000 guests per show.
24 - Legend Trails
Walking trails along the base of Mount Mystery.
25 - Mystical Flight
A flying inverted coaster, making Universal Johannesburg a beakon of thrill along with plentiful family options to explore. Mystical Flight is a continuation of the over-arching story of exploration in the land. Two scientists in the late 1800s wanted to learn more about the jungles and they thought they could do more from above. And they developed a sort of flying contraption that they hoped would be able to allow them to research from the treetops above. As you hold on to try and keep flight with the wind, this dueling coaster sweeps through the jungle treetops, loops through 5 inversions, and packs a non-stop punch into the 1:30 minutes of coaster track. Guests must be at least 48 inches to ride.
26 - Port of Call
A quick service option for explorers on the go - servicing sandwiches, burgers, fries, and more 'quick' food to power you up for your next adventure.
27 - Jungle Jam
A musical band that plays throughout the day at select times - playing tribal and jungle live-music to set the mood. A nice D-zone for guests as well to sit down and enjoy the ambiance before trekking off once more.
The Forbidden Forest
Rounding out of the opening day lineup of Universal Johannesburg is arguably one of the most beloved novel and film franchises of the 21st Century - Harry Potter. Ever since its opening in Islands of Adventure in 2010, Universal has sought to offer as much Harry Potter in their parks as possible, given that it's the property which has a following and passion behind its design to rival Disney parks in terms of concept creation. Here you enter that Wizarding world, but not an exact close of past iterations - here with enough land to see the 'adventure' fully realized, the scale of the 105 foot Hogwarts Castle is more on display, and you get to explore more of the Hogwarts grounds further enhancing the experience as a whole.
28 - Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
One of if not the only clone in the entirety of Universal Studios Johannesburg, this attraction is too perfect and almost too good not to include in any Wizarding World land. Travel on this KUKA arm attraction through Howarts as you battle Harry Potter villains and fly through the Quidditch Pitch on your way to save the day. Guests must be a t least 48 inches to ride.
29 - The Dark Forest Trials
Escape the Forbidden Forest from Aragon and the legion of spiders as you attempt to leave the treacherous trap. With the help of centaurs, you're about to escape the clutches of what lies within the forest, worse than spiders, the dark lord Voldemort.
30 - Whomping Willow
A spinner attraction with a bit of a 'thump' spin around the Whomping Willow on Arthur Weasley's flying car.
31 - The Shrieking Shack
A walk-through attraction of the infamous grounds location where you discover the secret of Sirius Black.
32 - The Hog's Head
A table service restaurant in Hogmeade serving a variety of assorted wizarding collections. Reservations are required.
33 - Honeydukes
Small candy shop where you can purchase food and drink from the films and novels including Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans.
34 - The Three Broomsticks
Quick-service location within Hogsmeade that is the home of the infamous Butter Beer.
35 - Ollivander's
A branch of the wand shop from Diagon Alley. Ollivander's also connects to the other shops around the global Universal parks. Part of your wand tests involves a portal (video) to Hollywood, Japan, and Orlando to see the other wizards getting their wands.
36 - Boat to Tiki Oasis
After an adventurous time at Hogwarts, you can take the boat back to the dock by the Tiki Oasis.
Financial Prognostications
*These are just estimates and are not meant to be taken as anything more than a simplified account of possible returns on investment
Budget
Universal Studios Johannesburg: $2.2 Billion
CityWalk: $400 Million
Universal's Mediterranean Resort & Spa: $300 Million
Hilton/Marriot Hotels: $200 Million (combined)
Various Land Acquisitions: $300 Million
__________________________________________
Total Resort Construction Cost: $3.4 Billion
Estimated Return on Investments (ROI)
If Park Passes cost: Adult $90 Child $75 Senior $75
Given Estimates: Avg Ticket Sale $82, Food purchases $30 per person, Merch purchases $25 per person
4.5 Million Guests Attend = $369 Million Pass Earnings, $130 Million Food, $112.5 Million Merch
Total $611.5 Million per Year
(3.6 years to break even with park cost at this steady attendance)
6 Million Guests Attend = $492 Million Pass Earnings, $180 Million Food, $150 Million Merch
Total: $822 Million per Year
(2.7 years to break even with park cost at this steady attendance)
10 Million Guests Attend = $820 Million Pass Earnings, $300 Million Food, $250 Million Merch
Total: $1.37 Billion per Year
(1.61 years to break even with park cost at this steady attendance)
From return on investment estimates, even with a low-ball attendance estimate of 4.5 Million annual guests (slightly higher than Universal Singapore in 2017) the board would begin breaking even and start making a profit just on the attendance, food, and merch alone in 3.6 years. However, if Universal Johannesburg takes off in popularity due to its embracing of theme and technical design of immersion of the guests, truly a different level than Universal has ever played at, and the cost pays off with higher attendance and spending, at levels of Shanghai Disneyland in its 2nd year - then it would begin making its money back less than 2 years after opening day and only have a trajectory upwards from there.
Ultimately, Universal Johannesburg would be an incredibly unique step for Universal Creative, one-upping Disney in the arms race of theme park global branding, being the first major theme park company like this to plant their flag on the continent of Africa.
A musical band that plays throughout the day at select times - playing tribal and jungle live-music to set the mood. A nice D-zone for guests as well to sit down and enjoy the ambiance before trekking off once more.
The Forbidden Forest
Rounding out of the opening day lineup of Universal Johannesburg is arguably one of the most beloved novel and film franchises of the 21st Century - Harry Potter. Ever since its opening in Islands of Adventure in 2010, Universal has sought to offer as much Harry Potter in their parks as possible, given that it's the property which has a following and passion behind its design to rival Disney parks in terms of concept creation. Here you enter that Wizarding world, but not an exact close of past iterations - here with enough land to see the 'adventure' fully realized, the scale of the 105 foot Hogwarts Castle is more on display, and you get to explore more of the Hogwarts grounds further enhancing the experience as a whole.
28 - Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
One of if not the only clone in the entirety of Universal Studios Johannesburg, this attraction is too perfect and almost too good not to include in any Wizarding World land. Travel on this KUKA arm attraction through Howarts as you battle Harry Potter villains and fly through the Quidditch Pitch on your way to save the day. Guests must be a t least 48 inches to ride.
29 - The Dark Forest Trials
Escape the Forbidden Forest from Aragon and the legion of spiders as you attempt to leave the treacherous trap. With the help of centaurs, you're about to escape the clutches of what lies within the forest, worse than spiders, the dark lord Voldemort.
30 - Whomping Willow
A spinner attraction with a bit of a 'thump' spin around the Whomping Willow on Arthur Weasley's flying car.
31 - The Shrieking Shack
A walk-through attraction of the infamous grounds location where you discover the secret of Sirius Black.
32 - The Hog's Head
A table service restaurant in Hogmeade serving a variety of assorted wizarding collections. Reservations are required.
33 - Honeydukes
Small candy shop where you can purchase food and drink from the films and novels including Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans.
34 - The Three Broomsticks
Quick-service location within Hogsmeade that is the home of the infamous Butter Beer.
35 - Ollivander's
A branch of the wand shop from Diagon Alley. Ollivander's also connects to the other shops around the global Universal parks. Part of your wand tests involves a portal (video) to Hollywood, Japan, and Orlando to see the other wizards getting their wands.
36 - Boat to Tiki Oasis
After an adventurous time at Hogwarts, you can take the boat back to the dock by the Tiki Oasis.
Financial Prognostications
*These are just estimates and are not meant to be taken as anything more than a simplified account of possible returns on investment
Budget
Universal Studios Johannesburg: $2.2 Billion
CityWalk: $400 Million
Universal's Mediterranean Resort & Spa: $300 Million
Hilton/Marriot Hotels: $200 Million (combined)
Various Land Acquisitions: $300 Million
__________________________________________
Total Resort Construction Cost: $3.4 Billion
Estimated Return on Investments (ROI)
If Park Passes cost: Adult $90 Child $75 Senior $75
Given Estimates: Avg Ticket Sale $82, Food purchases $30 per person, Merch purchases $25 per person
4.5 Million Guests Attend = $369 Million Pass Earnings, $130 Million Food, $112.5 Million Merch
Total $611.5 Million per Year
(3.6 years to break even with park cost at this steady attendance)
6 Million Guests Attend = $492 Million Pass Earnings, $180 Million Food, $150 Million Merch
Total: $822 Million per Year
(2.7 years to break even with park cost at this steady attendance)
10 Million Guests Attend = $820 Million Pass Earnings, $300 Million Food, $250 Million Merch
Total: $1.37 Billion per Year
(1.61 years to break even with park cost at this steady attendance)
From return on investment estimates, even with a low-ball attendance estimate of 4.5 Million annual guests (slightly higher than Universal Singapore in 2017) the board would begin breaking even and start making a profit just on the attendance, food, and merch alone in 3.6 years. However, if Universal Johannesburg takes off in popularity due to its embracing of theme and technical design of immersion of the guests, truly a different level than Universal has ever played at, and the cost pays off with higher attendance and spending, at levels of Shanghai Disneyland in its 2nd year - then it would begin making its money back less than 2 years after opening day and only have a trajectory upwards from there.
Ultimately, Universal Johannesburg would be an incredibly unique step for Universal Creative, one-upping Disney in the arms race of theme park global branding, being the first major theme park company like this to plant their flag on the continent of Africa.
Suchomimus
Well-Known Member
spacemt354: Project 4 - Tier Six Project
Universal Studios Johannesburg
Johannesburg, South Africa
The year is 2018. Universal Parks & Resorts, seeing the potential success of Disney Parks & Resorts celebrating WDW's 50th anniversary in lavish style in the coming years, set to regain their place in the arms race of theme parks after a series of calamities that have impeded their progress. In their flagship resort, Universal Orlando, the coveted Nintendo property has been continuously delayed due to wariness of whether to place a land in Kidzone or wait for their next park to be built in the future.
In an attempt to expand their brand more globally than Disney, Universal proposed 3 new resorts over a 5 year span, which included Universal Studios Beijing, Universal Studios Moscow, and Universal Studios South Korea -- to add to their already impressive lineup of Orlando, Hollywood, Japan, and Singapore. Nevertheless, due to local financial impediments of building an indoor theme park in Moscow, setbacks with the opening of Universal Studios Beijing, as well as a need to step out of the box of their stereotypical park and try something new, Universal Creative went back to the drawing board to try and find a location nobody, not even Disney, had ever suggested before - expanding their brand to new territories that already appreciate their films products in recent memory.
The idea was Universal Studios Johannesburg, located in the country of South Africa and the first ever Universal (or Disney for that matter) theme park resort on the continent of Africa!
Extensive planning and community research went into the decision before the board members of Universal decided to give it the green light and begin construction. Several questions needed to be met.
Why Johannesburg?
One of the 50 most populated urban areas in the world with over 9 million people in its limits, Johannesburg, South Africa has several appealing attributes that make it a prime location for the global expansion of the Universal Parks & Resorts brand.
Foremost, Johannesburg is an alpha global city that links major economic states and regions to the world economy, along the ranks of Los Angeles, CA, Sydney, Australia and Seoul, South Korea. Its high urban population ensures a volume of the guests at Universal Studios Johannesburg would be locals, supplementing the economy with increased local job opportunity and tourism.
As seen from the graphs above, Johannesburg is also over 8,000 miles from the flagship resort in Orlando, as well as thousands of miles away from its other resorts in Japan, Hollywood, and Singapore. This makes it a unique commodity for the region, something that while avid Universal fans might travel from far and wide to visit, it will be able to sustain itself with the local population who might not have the opportunity to visit other Universal resorts around the world.
The incentive is also compounded when you look at the fact that Johannesburg's primary language is English. Rather than have everything in Japanese, Chinese, or another language, you don't have to worry about a language barrier in Johannesburg. Furthermore, past box office numbers from South Africa show that locals tend to enjoy Universal films - with the top grossing film in 2017 being Fast & Furious 8. Moreover, 3 of the top 4 Box Office films of the year in South Africa were Universal films (F&F, Despicable Me 3, and Fifty Shades Darker, though the latter we will not be seeing anywhere close to a family theme park
The climate in Johannesburg is sunny and mostly warm given its location in the subtropics. In the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are flipped, with November - February being the warmest months (averaging a high of approx 85 degrees Fahrenheit) and May through July being the 'coldest' (averaging a high of 70 degrees Fahrenheit). Snow is a very rare occurrence in Johannesburg, and in the summers, expect an afternoon thunderstorm or two (basically Florida in the summer, with an increased UV index due to the higher elevation, so wear sunscreen!)
Where in Johannesburg?
Located approximately 8-10 miles south of the urban city, and within decent range of the international airport for foreign travelers, Universal Studios Johannesburg will sit on a plot of land outside of the main city. Free of pollution and volume, the resort will be a destination for the people of Johannesburg, allowing them to feel outside of the city while still being close to home.
What is Going in Johannesburg?
When planning out the designs for what type of park would go in Universal Studios Johannasburg, the board members at Universal Creative looked at the theme park rankings based on 2017 data to assess where Universal parks feel, and what was ahead of them globally.
#4 - Universal Studios Japan: 14,935,000 (opened 2001)
#10 - Universal Studios Florida: 10,198,000 (opened 1990)
#14 - Islands of Adventure: 9,549,000 (opened 1999)
#15 - Universal Studios Hollywood: 9,056,000 (opened 1964)
#25 - Universal Studios Singapore: 4,220,000 (opened 2011)
And they looked at new parks such as Shanghai Disneyland, which just 2 years in is already at 11,000,000 for 2017 attendance, whereas Universal Studios Singapore after 8 years is only hovering around 4.2 Million. What's the reason for this? And how can Universal Studios Johannasburg not suffer the same fate of Singapore?
The answer the board came up with is allowing Universal Creative to pave their own way with in-park storylines, cohesive land designs, rather than simply inserting IP after IP, screen after screen, in an attempt to satisfy a popularized film. While box office numbers in South Africa show that they do enjoy Universal films, that excitement might entice them to be interested in a Universal theme park, but the design of the theme park itself will keep them coming back and bring more guests as well.
For Universal Studios Johannesburg, the creative designers took advantage of the subtropical climate and designed an expedition-based theme park, one that mixed the exploration of something like Tokyo DisneySea, while facilitated with the environment of an Animal Kingdom - but surfaced throughout the entire park.
The theme park park is divided into various 'adventure' lands.
Tiki Oasis
The entry land into the park, immerses you into an exotic and exploration environment
Donkey Kong Country
Themed to Donkey Kong from Nintendo, this will be the 2nd Nintendo based land in Universal Parks after the opening in Japan.
Island of Madagascar
A mini-land, akin to Critter Country, that is primed for future expansion after opening day.
Isla Nublar
The classic film Jurassic Park is put on display in this completely immersive island endeavor.
Lost Jungle
A mysterious shipwreck, native tribes, and a quest to find your way out greet you in this unique neo-horror/thriller.
The Forbidden Forest
A spin-off on the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, focused on the Hogwarts Grounds, Whomping Willow, Hogsmeade, and Shrieking Shack.
Opening Day Park Map
The opening day park map will feature those six lands as well as plenty of space to expand in the future, denoted by the empty green areas surrounding the park's brim.
With a planned opening date of November 2023 - Universal Studios Johannesburg will open along with an adjacent premiere category Mediterranean Resort & Spa, CityWalk Shopping and Dining Center, Good Neighbor Hotels of the Hilton and Marriott, as well as complimentary Universal Shuttle Transportation to and from O.R. Tambo International Airport for traveling guests.
Land by Land Analysis
Tiki Oasis
As a guest you are swept up into a shipwreck on a tropical island in South Pacific. As you travel deeper you can see inhabitants of this local town of Kahakai (Hawaiin for seaside). Inside, merchants and traders thrive off the seafaring economy, locals live among the 2nd and 3rd story windows of quaint little balconies and apartments, with small stores lining the bottom of the buildings. Cobble stone streets and shingled roof formations populate the region. In the distance, guests can see the adventure that awaits them, as a towering 210 foot tall Mount Mystery creeps on the horizon, hiding a roaring train of passengers from a dangerous mission. You've officially been transported to an adventurous world.
1 - Hemisphere Outpost
As part of the Universal Film Club, this is an exclusive perk-filled location that has specialty rates at Universal Parks & Resorts around the world, as well as a tropical signature dining option overlooking Tiki Oasis. The Universal Film Club is a membership that guests of Universal Parks may join, offering membership perks of exclusive dining offers, discounts on resort hotels, food, merchandise, and more.
2 - Guest Relations
Nautically themed explorer relation desks for guests to ask about park maps, lockers, help or assistance with first-aid, and more. Guests can also download the Universal app from the Apple or Google Play stores and have a digital map of the resort always available on their smartphones or other devices.
3 - Paradise Traders
Gift shop selling Universal merchandise as well as other assorted items such as ponchos, sunscreen, and more that guests might need on their travels.
4 - Fountain of Discovery
A secondary icon of the park situated in front of Mount Mystery, it is said to be guarded by water spirits of the deep Pacific harboring a dark secret of the land. As guests walk past the fountain, they can gaze up at the massive 50 foot tall sprouts of water it ejects from the hillside below.
5 - Captain Flip's Explorer Trails
One of the natives of Tiki Oasis - Captain Flip is a bit of a jolly yet bumbling old man who enjoys hiking and exploring the Oasis. Many times his maps and directions, as well as custom paths he has created tend to send guests on whirling trips through the jungle, so be on the look out for some dead ends and other comical events along your way.
6 - Treasure of the Falls
A table service restaurant situated north of the center of town in the Oasis, and closer to the water's edge. This tranquil setting is the perfect location to relax and unwind after a long day at the park - with moderately affordable family prices, this 260 seat restaurant offers menu items themed to South Pacific and Hawaiian offerings. Pinapple pulled-pork burgers are one of the top items, as well as the Mahi-Mahi, Macadamia nut pizza. Est. Price Range: Adult: $20-35, Child: $10-20
7 - Boat to Hogwarts
On the shores of the Tiki Oasis, you can set sail for the Forbidden Forest of the United Kingdom and board a mystical boat to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. There you will set out on an magical adventure for the whole family to enjoy.
Donkey Kong Country
Home to the famous Donkey Kong and family, this Nintendo immersive experience is the second stepping stone from Universal Studios Japan in terms of Nintendo in the Universal Parks. While it is inspired by some of the flux items that are intended to go into Universal Orlando, it expands specifically on the property that allows Nintendo characters to take place within an 'adventure' setting - inside a forest of palm trees, mountains, vines, and foliage, to add an experience to Universal parks that guests have never seen before.
8 - Donkey Kong Tropical Freeze
Using an augmented reality environment, you'll be transported into the world of multiple Donkey Kong levels as if you're involved with the game yourself. This psuedo-hybrid mix between a mini-roller coaster and a 4D shooter experience will take you on a rockiking ride through various indoor levels of the game before a final boss battle decides your ultimate fate. The attraction as a height requirement of 36 inches, which is relatively small enough so that most fans of the game will be tall enough to experience this family attraction.
9 - Tiki Tak Tribal Twirl
A flat ride that takes guests in banana barrels and swirls them around a curved and bank sloped design, adding a bit of thrill to an otherwise tame flat ride experience.
10 - Kiddy Kong Treehouse
A walk-through treehouse that takes guests up approximately 45 feet in the air, which offers them great, unobstructed views of the Lost Jungle, Tiki Oasis, Island of Madagascar, and Isla Nublar, as well as Donkey Kong Country right below it.
11 - Banana Bistro
A quick-service restaurant that is designed to look like the 'settings' menu of a Nintendo devices, as you select from a menu your different Nintendo/Donkey Kong themed items.
12 - Island Mercantile
A quaint gift shop selling Nintendo and Donkey Kong merchandise.
Island of Madagascar
With the Island of Madagascar actually nearby South Africa and the Cape of Good Hope reference in the film, Madagascar is a popular franchise that has stood the test of time and fits within the narrative of an exploration style Universal theme park. While the mini-land is small compared to the other offerings in the park - if received well by guests it is a prime location to expand, similar to how Pixar Place in Disney's Hollywood Studios became Toy Story Land with an expansion to a pre-existing attraction and franchise.
13 - Journey of Good Hope
With the actual Island of Madagascar off the shores of South Africa, and the Cape of Good Hope being a central premise in the film, the popular Madagascar franchise from Dreamworks makes its way into the park; a park focused on adventure and exploration which the film franchise has plenty of. This mini-land on opening day will only feature one attraction, but similar to Pixar Place's transformation into Toy Story Land, the property has room to expand if popular enough down the line. The Journey of Good Hope takes guests on a dark ride adventure which picks up after the animals crash land on Madagascar. You travel through the dense jungles, sing I Like to Move It Move It with the rambunctious King Julian, as well as trek along with the main characters as they decide whether or not to try and return home, or if this is their home. The 7 minute adventure boasts 35 animatronics as a signature score.
14 - Ocean Breeze
A small gift shop at the transition point between Madagascar and the Lost Jungle, doubling as both a Madagascar merchandise location as well as park necessities similar to Paradise Traders at the front entrance of the park.
15 - Skyway to Nublar
Similar to the entrance in the film, now you'll board one of John Hammond's 'helicopter' skyways to Islan Nublar as the infamous score from Jurassic Park plays you there.
Isla Nublar
As you approach the island, you are breathless at the sheer scale of the towering 120 foot tall forced perspective mountain range that covers the adventure that awaits. As your skyway (or walkway if you choose) descends and you begin to enter the land, you can approach the visitors center, dine among cuisine that was spared no expense, or board the 'soft-opening' of the park's signature attraction - Jurassic Park Expeditions.
16 - Jurassic Park Expeditions
Boarding the explorer vehicles, you and your party are taken off on an adventure through Jurassic Park. Passing through the massive archway and gates, you enter a world lost in time, see magnificent audio-animatronic creatures that completely immerse you in the world. When word gets out the the electrical power grid is faulty, your vehicles take off and traverse around the park before going off road and in a great escape from raptors and the tyrannical T-Rex. Height Requirement of 40 inches. May Frighten Small Children.
17 - Mr. DNA Showcase
A 20 minute show explaining the universe in a Carousel of Progress format - this rotating theater attraction shows off the Jurassic Park laboratories, as well as the scientific basis behind the discoveries. Shows run daily.
18 - Herbavore Trails
Walking trails through the wilderness where you may encounter some plant-eating creatures and other animatonic beings throughout your endeavor.
19 - Visitors Center: Hammond Hall
A table servace restaurant along with a merchanside location as you exit, this restaurant has a wide variety of cuisine, from fish, meats, chicken, veggies, and more. Price Range Adult $30-40, Children: $20-25
20 - Skyway to Madagascar
The return journey on the skyway across the Explorer Harbor Lagoon and back towards Madagascar.
Lost Jungle
One of the most innovative lands Universal Creative has ever designed, the Lost Jungle is an interconnected series of attractions that tells the story of explorers around the world lurking for what is known as Mount Mystery, deep within an island off the shores of South America. This island is said to be known to relics and treasures unlike the world has ever seen. Many of the attractions within the land are the explorer attempts to find these relics and explore the 'Lost Jungle' island - nevertheless, on many of these journeys, they find more than what they bargained for on their quests.
21 - Trek to the Great Beyond
Set within Mount Mystery, legend has it that deep within the mountain there is an ancient relic that leads the user to a magical city. Those that have tried to find this relic have said that terrifying creatures prowl the depths of the mountain, and send explores up and down the range trying to get them to leave the mountain's edge. As guests enter the mountain's base, they trek through the queue in the small town of Artisan. Walking through the village shops and artifacts, you wind up inside traveling with an explorer team who wishes to find this relic once and for all. What awaits is a thrilling roller coaster ride designed by Rocky Mountain Construction. An incredible 200 foot tall behemoth of an attraction that contains 3 inversions, 20 seconds of air-time total, as well as continuously going in an out of the mountain's interior, haunted by the monstrous spirits that lurk inside. Guests must be at least 52 inches tall to ride.
22 - Rendezvous Mission Tasks
Family adventures that can be done on the Universal smartphone app - follow along as your trek guide leads you to several points of interest in the Lost Jungle. There are two ports of call - one by Mystical Flight and the other by Great Beyond, connecting the two attractions in the land's interconnected story.
23 - Wild Theater
A theater with rotating seasonal live-action shows pertaining to Prescott the Great - an ancient warrior of the Lost Jungle. His story is told through vignettes of his life as he pursues the knowledge and wisdom that exploration of this world provides. 30 minute shows, check times guide for more information. Theater holds 2,000 guests per show.
24 - Legend Trails
Walking trails along the base of Mount Mystery.
25 - Mystical Flight
A flying inverted coaster, making Universal Johannesburg a beakon of thrill along with plentiful family options to explore. Mystical Flight is a continuation of the over-arching story of exploration in the land. Two scientists in the late 1800s wanted to learn more about the jungles and they thought they could do more from above. And they developed a sort of flying contraption that they hoped would be able to allow them to research from the treetops above. As you hold on to try and keep flight with the wind, this dueling coaster sweeps through the jungle treetops, loops through 5 inversions, and packs a non-stop punch into the 1:30 minutes of coaster track. Guests must be at least 48 inches to ride.
26 - Port of Call
A quick service option for explorers on the go - servicing sandwiches, burgers, fries, and more 'quick' food to power you up for your next adventure.
27 - Jungle Jam
A musical band that plays throughout the day at select times - playing tribal and jungle live-music to set the mood. A nice D-zone for guests as well to sit down and enjoy the ambiance before trekking off once more.
The Forbidden Forest
Rounding out of the opening day lineup of Universal Johannesburg is arguably one of the most beloved novel and film franchises of the 21st Century - Harry Potter. Ever since its opening in Islands of Adventure in 2010, Universal has sought to offer as much Harry Potter in their parks as possible, given that it's the property which has a following and passion behind its design to rival Disney parks in terms of concept creation. Here you enter that Wizarding world, but not an exact close of past iterations - here with enough land to see the 'adventure' fully realized, the scale of the 105 foot Hogwarts Castle is more on display, and you get to explore more of the Hogwarts grounds further enhancing the experience as a whole.
28 - Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
One of if not the only clone in the entirety of Universal Studios Johannesburg, this attraction is too perfect and almost too good not to include in any Wizarding World land. Travel on this KUKA arm attraction through Howarts as you battle Harry Potter villains and fly through the Quidditch Pitch on your way to save the day. Guests must be a t least 48 inches to ride.
29 - The Dark Forest Trials
Escape the Forbidden Forest from Aragon and the legion of spiders as you attempt to leave the treacherous trap. With the help of centaurs, you're about to escape the clutches of what lies within the forest, worse than spiders, the dark lord Voldemort.
30 - Whomping Willow
A spinner attraction with a bit of a 'thump' spin around the Whomping Willow on Arthur Weasley's flying car.
31 - The Shrieking Shack
A walk-through attraction of the infamous grounds location where you discover the secret of Sirius Black.
32 - The Hog's Head
A table service restaurant in Hogmeade serving a variety of assorted wizarding collections. Reservations are required.
33 - Honeydukes
Small candy shop where you can purchase food and drink from the films and novels including Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans.
34 - The Three Broomsticks
Quick-service location within Hogsmeade that is the home of the infamous Butter Beer.
35 - Ollivander's
A branch of the wand shop from Diagon Alley. Ollivander's also connects to the other shops around the global Universal parks. Part of your wand tests involves a portal (video) to Hollywood, Japan, and Orlando to see the other wizards getting their wands.
36 - Boat to Tiki Oasis
After an adventurous time at Hogwarts, you can take the boat back to the dock by the Tiki Oasis.
Financial Prognostications
*These are just estimates and are not meant to be taken as anything more than a simplified account of possible returns on investment
Budget
Universal Studios Johannesburg: $2.2 Billion
CityWalk: $400 Million
Universal's Mediterranean Resort & Spa: $300 Million
Hilton/Marriot Hotels: $200 Million (combined)
Various Land Acquisitions: $300 Million
__________________________________________
Total Resort Construction Cost: $3.4 Billion
Estimated Return on Investments (ROI)
If Park Passes cost: Adult $90 Child $75 Senior $75
Given Estimates: Avg Ticket Sale $82, Food purchases $30 per person, Merch purchases $25 per person
4.5 Million Guests Attend = $369 Million Pass Earnings, $130 Million Food, $112.5 Million Merch
Total $611.5 Million per Year
(3.6 years to break even with park cost at this steady attendance)
6 Million Guests Attend = $492 Million Pass Earnings, $180 Million Food, $150 Million Merch
Total: $822 Million per Year
(2.7 years to break even with park cost at this steady attendance)
10 Million Guests Attend = $820 Million Pass Earnings, $300 Million Food, $250 Million Merch
Total: $1.37 Billion per Year
(1.61 years to break even with park cost at this steady attendance)
From return on investment estimates, even with a low-ball attendance estimate of 4.5 Million annual guests (slightly higher than Universal Singapore in 2017) the board would begin breaking even and start making a profit just on the attendance, food, and merch alone in 3.6 years. However, if Universal Johannesburg takes off in popularity due to its embracing of theme and technical design of immersion of the guests, truly a different level than Universal has ever played at, and the cost pays off with higher attendance and spending, at levels of Shanghai Disneyland in its 2nd year - then it would begin making its money back less than 2 years after opening day and only have a trajectory upwards from there.
Ultimately, Universal Johannesburg would be an incredibly unique step for Universal Creative, one-upping Disney in the arms race of theme park global branding, being the first major theme park company like this to plant their flag on the continent of Africa.
No King Kong?
spacemt354
Chili's
It's opening day, there's 3 main expansion pads (2 in the top right and one on the left hand side) for anything from Skull Island, to Jungle of Nool, or another nuanced land akin to Lost Jungle. Another reason was with JP and HP already in the park, on opening day I wanted to have enough difference between it and Orlando, so I went with another 'Kong' (Donkey Kong
)
Basketbuddy101
Well-Known Member
Ladies and Gentlemen, Witches and Wizards, I humbly offer...
A New World of Dark Magic Awaits:
New to Universal Studios Japan is an expansion of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter dedicated to Azkaban Prison, the elusive home of the Dementors and prison for dark witches and wizards of the Wizarding World. Because very little is seen of the prison in the films outside of brief glimpses of the towering structure's exterior, Universal Creative has the unique opportunity to take significant creative liberties with the construction of this manmade island. The island will be marketed as a Universal Studios Japan exclusive, and will feature one of the most sophisticated attractions Universal Creative has ever created: Azkaban Prison Break, a highly-technical thrill ride utilizing two distinct yet familiar ride systems in unprecedented fashion. While the expansion is in the same park as the existing Hogsmeade Village and Hogwarts Castle, the areas are separated by enough space so as to maintain some amount of reason within the context of the lore, and doesn't clash nearly as much as the concept of placing Diagon Alley in the same park without a Hogwarts Express attraction to separate them. In addition, the island will blend seamlessly with Universal Studios Japan's nearby San Francisco Waterfront area, which again is very fitting in that Azkaban was partly-inspired by the real-life Alcatraz. All in all, the island will serve as a worthy addition to the park, becoming its first free-fall attraction and the first original Harry Potter themed attraction outside of the United States.
A New World of Dark Magic Awaits:
New to Universal Studios Japan is an expansion of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter dedicated to Azkaban Prison, the elusive home of the Dementors and prison for dark witches and wizards of the Wizarding World. Because very little is seen of the prison in the films outside of brief glimpses of the towering structure's exterior, Universal Creative has the unique opportunity to take significant creative liberties with the construction of this manmade island. The island will be marketed as a Universal Studios Japan exclusive, and will feature one of the most sophisticated attractions Universal Creative has ever created: Azkaban Prison Break, a highly-technical thrill ride utilizing two distinct yet familiar ride systems in unprecedented fashion. While the expansion is in the same park as the existing Hogsmeade Village and Hogwarts Castle, the areas are separated by enough space so as to maintain some amount of reason within the context of the lore, and doesn't clash nearly as much as the concept of placing Diagon Alley in the same park without a Hogwarts Express attraction to separate them. In addition, the island will blend seamlessly with Universal Studios Japan's nearby San Francisco Waterfront area, which again is very fitting in that Azkaban was partly-inspired by the real-life Alcatraz. All in all, the island will serve as a worthy addition to the park, becoming its first free-fall attraction and the first original Harry Potter themed attraction outside of the United States.
The Island:
The site of the expansion is at the heart of the park's signature lagoon, which will undergo heavy construction, including a complete draining of its water, to accommodate the signature tower's construction. The prison itself will tower a grand 190' above the park, making it the tallest structure within the gates. Guests have one of two options in terms of getting to the island, the first of which involves crossing a simple bridge. The other option is perhaps more scenic; guests may board an enchanted riverboat on a hidden track which will allow them to take a five minute cruise around the prison, passing such sites as the rockwork base at the foot of the tower and the Azkaban burial ground, a grassy surface near the cliff dedicated to those who had died during their sentences. Upon crossing the bridge to the prison, guests will notice the faint sounds of screams emanating from small windows throughout the prison's grimy stone exterior. Aside from the attractions, the island itself offers guests unparalleled views of the surround park from almost every angle, a unique element that makes a visit thoroughly worthwhile alone.The Drained Universal Studios Japan Lagoon:
3D Video Concept by Basketbuddy101:
The Story:
3D Video Concept by Basketbuddy101:
The Story:
To maintain the integrity of the lore, guests will presume the role of highly-trained aurors on special assignment, responding to an unknown disturbance from within the prison. Cast members themselves will take on this role, as the prison has no human guards in the context of the mythology. Guests enter through the front doors of the prison, located at the foot of the triangular tower, where they will quickly discover that the dementors are conspiring with Voldemort to allow ten of his most loyal followers to break out of the prison. The event is briefly seen in the film; it is the moment in which Bellatrix Lestrange cries out in joy when she discovers her master's plan. Much like Escape from Gringotts, guests will be given the opportunity to experience a pivotal moment from the films in a unique and exciting way. Outside of Helena Bonham Carter and Ralph Fiennes reprising their roles as Voldemort and Bellatrix, George Harris will reprise his role as Kingsley Shackelbolt, guiding guests through the maze-like prison in an attempt to stop the breakout.
Ride System:
The attraction will utilize a hybrid ride system that can best be described as a cross between the vehicles used in Transformers: The Ride and The Twilight Zone: Tower of Terror, combining physical environments with projection screens and drop tower style freefalls, all of which are synchronized to the simulated motions of the vehicle, which is equipped with a motion base platform capable of six degrees of freedom. The vehicles themselves are fashioned to resemble "security carts," designed to carry aurors through the miserable hallways and corridors of the prison.The Queue:
Upon entering the fortress, it quickly becomes apparent that the prison is in a state of despair and disarray. Guests enter a dank grotto where the sounds of screaming aurors echo through the granite surfaces. Blasts of blue, green, and red light erupt from crevices within the cavern; trouble cannot be far away. After winding along a series of dimly-lit corridors, a ramp takes guests further upward into the prison, and into a cylindrical dungeon stretching high into the building, where blacklit, suspended animatronic Dementors float ominously in the air. Cold blasts of air fill the room, making the creatures' cloaks flow back and forth. The dementors glide eerily in circular patterns, guarding the various cells in the dungeon. It seems like a greater amount of activity is happening elsewhere, however, as the sounds of aurors scrambling to contain the breakout loom in the distance. In the next and final segment of the preshow, Shacklebolt appears to guests in one of the cell blocks, which has been reduced to rubble by the death eaters. Shacklebolt is presented as his patronus, a lynx, via Musion effect. Shacklebolt warns guests that a few notable prisoners have escaped, and while it may be too late to stop them, the rest of the prison must be contained in order to prevent the escape of even more prisoners. A security cart will take them to the upper floors of the prison so that they may contain the breakout. The breakout originated, after all, a at the southwest of the prison, which, as Shacklebolt reminds them, is frequented by Bellatrix Lestrange.
Loading Station and Vehicle:
Upon arriving at the loading station, or the "Security and Containment Chamber." The walls are lined with moving portraits depicting various sections of the prison (which are in complete disarray). Some of these portraits are inhabited by members of the prison, who gossip among themselves, sneering at guests and regarding them with a great deal of contempt; their conversations are not private and yet they whisper to themselves as if guests are unable to see them. Guests are given 'protective goggles' that, of course, Universal would include in an attraction such as this. Yes, this is yet another 3D based attraction. The vehicles resemble rickety golf carts, brown and rugged, equipped with emergency supplies in the cargo hold, strange and colorful bottles and beakers filled with gooey fluids. Sharp-eyed guests might notice that one of the flasks is marked as 'Veritaserum,' or truth serum, as some might recognize. Old ropes and other various tools attached the vehicle help to garnish it.The Attraction:
While the entire structure features a relatively-large footprint, Universal Creative decided to utilize as much vertical space within the building to accommodate an E-Ticket attraction of this caliber. The first half of the attraction takes guests on a hair-raising voyage through the Dementor-infested corridors of Azkaban, passing alongside a legion of the miserable creatures, who are in the middle of a 'kissing' rampage, sucking the soul out of the screaming prisoners who are attempting to follow in the footsteps of the escaping Death Eaters. The Dementors, of course, are in cahoots with Voldemort, who announces to the entire prison via 'Amplifying Charm' that "only a distinct few of [them] are permitted to leave," and that all the "wretched fools" who attempt to profit from his plans will "suffer fates that would make [him] appear a merciful Lord." After crashing into an old cell (utilizing both a physical set and projection screen) inhabited by a shabby hag witch attempting to escape, Shacklebolt 'stupefies' the witch and accidentally sends the vehicle hurtling over the edge of the prison and toward the sharp rock cliffs below. Guests are 'saved' however, by a gang of Dementors, who carry the vehicle in the air, sending it flying , swooping and dipping over a vicious and seemingly-endless ocean; powerful blasts of air and water simulate the roaring waves below. The Dementors deliver the vehicle to the upper floors of the prison, where they encounter Bellatrix Lestrange and Lord Voldemort, who mock guests as "pathetic auror scum." It is here that the two make their escape, but not before Bellatrix sends guests plummeting into the free fall sequence of the attraction.At this juncture, the vehicles become unattached from the traditional track and fastened to the elevator shaft platform of the attraction. Guests are then sent harrowing upwards and downwards in a random pattern as the Dementors seemingly toy with the vehicle, attempting to send in crashing into the prison below. It isn't until Shacklebolt appears at the edge of a platform ahead via Musion screen and suspends the vehicle, subsequently performing a powerful patronus and sending the Dementors scrambling. This, of course, send the vehicles freefalling once more, only for guests to be saved by the booming sound of Shacklebolt's 'Arresto Momentum' charm. The experience ends on a bittersweet note, as guests learn that while ten Death Eaters escaped, no other losses were reported, and the prison was under control. Most guests would describe the attraction as a whole as a highly unique yet memorable experience, utilizing some of the more distinctly-dark elements of the film to create an experience that frankly cannot be found in any other Universal Studios park, or any major theme park for that matter.
Ekrizdis' Gallery
Located in a cavern at the base of the island's manmade cliff lies Ekrizdis' Fortress, a retail location focused primarily on the dark arts, and perhaps places a greater emphasis on lore than the merchandise itself. The shop, an intimate, almost claustrophobic space, is themed after the private quarters of Ekrizdis, who fans of the book might recognize as the first resident of the prison, before it was even a prison at all. In the context of the mythology, this dark wizard used to lure Muggle sailors to the island in the hope of torturing them for his own twisted pleasure. This explains, of course, why the walls of the cavern are adorned with numerous sailor equipment: maps, telescopes, swords, quills, bells, various paddles and other boat parts, and garments hang from the wooden rafters emerging from the rockwork like trophies. A number of skeleton heads float sickly in the ceiling, spinning as if propelled by a dark charm of some sort. The unique element of the merchandise is that guests can buy ordinary Muggle supplies that come with unique and almost grotesque magical twists. One such item is the 'Lost Soul in a Skull' trinket, an electronic memento that guests learn has the soul of a lost sailor inside; a bloodcurdling scream can be heard from inside the richly-detailed skull, which rattles and vibrates in response to the button trigger (battery operated, of course).Other such items include dark magic compasses which "Point you to your doom," Muggle lanterns which have been charmed to change colors (a flame effect allows the lantern to glow eerily in shades of green, red, and blue), and "Man-Eating Shells," Muggle shells which have undergone transfiguration to "snap" at guests (Again, battery-operated). Fans of the films and series will enjoy the original wave of merchandise, and most of them would agree that Arthur Weasley would be appalled by the sale of Muggle artifacts, not to mention ones that had been tampered with by means of dark magic.
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DisneyManOne
Well-Known Member
Sorry for being so late with this, but I've been thinking about doing something for Islands of Adventure; can it replace an existing area or do we have to build it on an unused parcel of land?
FireMountain
Well-Known Member
I think that by "expansion", Tiki means "create something new".
It can replace an existing area.
I'm going to be doing a podcast that will last a couple hours, then getting around to giving my feedback directly after that. As long as you turn your project in before my feedback I'll be happy to count it towards full credit even if it's after midnight.
If you're curious to see how I would work the plot of the Incredicoaster into an Incredibles Christmas special, tune in!
DisneyManOne
Well-Known Member
A New Kind of Terror is Opening Its Doors...
In the tradition of Jurassic Park, Marvel Superhero Island, Seuss Landing and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter comes a whole new port of call based on one of the most famous groups in pop culture history: the Universal Monsters. Replacing Toon Lagoon at Universal's Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Florida, Realm of Monsters promises to bring us up close and personal with some of the most popular of all monsters. The Universal Monsters have remained some of the most famous characters to come from Universal's vast film library, and now, at last, we can walk in their shoes and explore a dark, twisted world unlike anything ever seen before.
Most of Toon Lagoon's assets have been repurposed for the Realm of Monsters. Instead of finding yourself in a world where comic books come to life, you'll find yourself in an Eastern European village the likes of which Dracula, Frankenstein and the Mummy might have frequented. Taking heavy inspiration from Hawthorne Village's excellent Universal Monsters Village collection, here is a world devoid of life. These monsters have frightened all inhabitants away. Those brave--or foolish--enough to remain try to remain steadfast and strong depsite the threat these monsters pose. Strange sounds echo through our ears, day and night. Everything looks dead and deserted. The buildings show their wear. Truly, this is a land lost to time.
Attractions
Beetlejuice's Graveyard Revue
Taking the place of Toon Lagoon Amphitheater is the foreboding structure that is Castle Dracula. This ominous stone facade serves as the home of the triumphant return of one of Universal's most beloved shows: Beetlejuice's Graveyard Revue. In this show, we join one of Tim Burton's most iconic creations as he rallies representations of some of Universal's famous monsters for an epic live concert featuring some classic songs and outrageous surprises.
Fittingly enough, when Halloween Horror Nights comes around, Castle Dracula turns into the "Frankenstein Place" and plays host to a live re-telling of the classic cult musical, The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
Frankenstein's Laboratory
In this multi-level walkthrough replacing Me Ship, The Olive, we are transported into the demented mind of Dr. Henry Frankenstein, and relive the birth of the famous monster born of electricity, but given the brain of a murderer. Famous scenes from the 1931 classic are re-enacted; with the crown jewel being the monster's birth: a special-effects showcase unlike anything Universal has ever put out!
Black Lagoon Expedition
Inspired by Creature from the Black Lagoon, what was once Popeye and Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges becomes a strange and exciting journey. Interesting note: the discovery made by the scientists in the film was not the only time they tried to find the Creature. A long-since abandoned jungle camp provides proof that there were expeditions in the Black Lagoon long before the Creature's experiences with Kay. The explorers left recruit us to go down the mysterious rivers and see if we can find that Creature. The resulting experience is a mixture of thrills both scary and exciting. We dodge in and out of dark caves, trying to avoid the clutches of the elusive Creature.
The Legend of Dracula
Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls has been completely removed to make way for an all-new ambitious dark ride based around the Bela Lugosi classic. Held within the offices of Van Helsing, we are swept aboard mysterious carriages to join the vampire-hunter on a quest to put an end to Dracula before he takes another innocent life. Think of something along the lines of The Haunted Mansion or Pirates of the Caribbean--an epic dark ride with tons of detail, a grand Gothic atmosphere, a few scares here and there, and an absolutely killer soundtrack. In fact, so big and expansive is this ride that no ride is the same ride twice. With different places to go in the Castle and different scares, there's always something new to discover!
Skull Island: Reign of Kong
On the outskirts of this village, the dense foliage turns from forest to jungle, leading us into Skull Island, home of another famous Universal creature: King Kong! Skull Island has since been folded into Realm of Monsters, bringing the port count back to seven.
Dining
Wolfman's Delight
Wanna get your carnivore on? Well, one homestead tries to appeal to the Wolfman by offering meat: hot dogs, chicken fingers, chicken wraps and hamburgers. Wolfman's Delight offers some of the more unique hot dog and hamburger options in the park; utilizing all sorts of different flavors and toppings, because, well, you never know what the Wolfman likes. Replaces Wimpy's.
Village Public House
The local public house has been converted into a restaurant, offering anything you would like to eat. This large, expansive eatery provides great views of the lagoon and of the imposing structures that rise above the trees of the Realm. Replaces Comic Strip Cafe.
Shopping
Towne Treasury
The long-abandoned treasury is home to specialty merchandise themed around the Universal Monsters, King Kong, and all other matter of horror-related properties. The impeccably detailed shop is designed to look like an old treasury, looted by the monsters in the wake of the mass exodus from the Realm.
And that's just a little taste of what you'll find inside the Realm of Monsters. The Realm of Monsters is set to open in 2024, just in time for Islands of Adventure's 25th anniversary! This is one land that's certainly worth screaming about...
Suchomimus
Well-Known Member
A New Kind of Terror is Opening Its Doors...In the tradition of Jurassic Park, Marvel Superhero Island, Seuss Landing and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter comes a whole new port of call based on one of the most famous groups in pop culture history: the Universal Monsters. Replacing Toon Lagoon at Universal's Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Florida, Realm of Monsters promises to bring us up close and personal with some of the most popular of all monsters. The Universal Monsters have remained some of the most famous characters to come from Universal's vast film library, and now, at last, we can walk in their shoes and explore a dark, twisted world unlike anything ever seen before.
Most of Toon Lagoon's assets have been repurposed for the Realm of Monsters. Instead of finding yourself in a world where comic books come to life, you'll find yourself in an Eastern European village the likes of which Dracula, Frankenstein and the Mummy might have frequented. Taking heavy inspiration from Hawthorne Village's excellent Universal Monsters Village collection, here is a world devoid of life. These monsters have frightened all inhabitants away. Those brave--or foolish--enough to remain try to remain steadfast and strong depsite the threat these monsters pose. Strange sounds echo through our ears, day and night. Everything looks dead and deserted. The buildings show their wear. Truly, this is a land lost to time.
Attractions
Beetlejuice's Graveyard Revue
Taking the place of Toon Lagoon Amphitheater is the foreboding structure that is Castle Dracula. This ominous stone facade serves as the home of the triumphant return of one of Universal's most beloved shows: Beetlejuice's Graveyard Revue. In this show, we join one of Tim Burton's most iconic creations as he rallies representations of some of Universal's famous monsters for an epic live concert featuring some classic songs and outrageous surprises.
Fittingly enough, when Halloween Horror Nights comes around, Castle Dracula turns into the "Frankenstein Place" and plays host to a live re-telling of the classic cult musical, The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
Frankenstein's Laboratory
In this multi-level walkthrough replacing Me Ship, The Olive, we are transported into the demented mind of Dr. Henry Frankenstein, and relive the birth of the famous monster born of electricity, but given the brain of a murderer. Famous scenes from the 1931 classic are re-enacted; with the crown jewel being the monster's birth: a special-effects showcase unlike anything Universal has ever put out!
Black Lagoon Expedition
Inspired by Creature from the Black Lagoon, what was once Popeye and Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges becomes a strange and exciting journey. Interesting note: the discovery made by the scientists in the film was not the only time they tried to find the Creature. A long-since abandoned jungle camp provides proof that there were expeditions in the Black Lagoon long before the Creature's experiences with Kay. The explorers left recruit us to go down the mysterious rivers and see if we can find that Creature. The resulting experience is a mixture of thrills both scary and exciting. We dodge in and out of dark caves, trying to avoid the clutches of the elusive Creature.
The Legend of Dracula
Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls has been completely removed to make way for an all-new ambitious dark ride based around the Bela Lugosi classic. Held within the offices of Van Helsing, we are swept aboard mysterious carriages to join the vampire-hunter on a quest to put an end to Dracula before he takes another innocent life. Think of something along the lines of The Haunted Mansion or Pirates of the Caribbean--an epic dark ride with tons of detail, a grand Gothic atmosphere, a few scares here and there, and an absolutely killer soundtrack. In fact, so big and expansive is this ride that no ride is the same ride twice. With different places to go in the Castle and different scares, there's always something new to discover!
Skull Island: Reign of Kong
On the outskirts of this village, the dense foliage turns from forest to jungle, leading us into Skull Island, home of another famous Universal creature: King Kong! Skull Island has since been folded into Realm of Monsters, bringing the port count back to seven.
Dining
Wolfman's Delight
Wanna get your carnivore on? Well, one homestead tries to appeal to the Wolfman by offering meat: hot dogs, chicken fingers, chicken wraps and hamburgers. Wolfman's Delight offers some of the more unique hot dog and hamburger options in the park; utilizing all sorts of different flavors and toppings, because, well, you never know what the Wolfman likes. Replaces Wimpy's.
Village Public House
The local public house has been converted into a restaurant, offering anything you would like to eat. This large, expansive eatery provides great views of the lagoon and of the imposing structures that rise above the trees of the Realm. Replaces Comic Strip Cafe.
Shopping
Towne Treasury
The long-abandoned treasury is home to specialty merchandise themed around the Universal Monsters, King Kong, and all other matter of horror-related properties. The impeccably detailed shop is designed to look like an old treasury, looted by the monsters in the wake of the mass exodus from the Realm.
And that's just a little taste of what you'll find inside the Realm of Monsters. The Realm of Monsters is set to open in 2024, just in time for Islands of Adventure's 25th anniversary! This is one land that's certainly worth screaming about...
This is the third imagineering that I’ve seen use this concept.