The Many Problems Holding Back Universal Parks

I've spent quite a bit of time criticizing Disney leadership throughout the library of videos I've produced, but people seem to hold the perception that I have nothing for praise for Universal parks. While I do look on them more favorably, especially since they've been producing better attractions and embracing guest-friendly policies, that isn't to say that they don't have areas where they need to dramatically improve. The parks are moving away from screen-based experiences, but this doesn't mean that they still aren't a problem. Certain areas of the parks not new or themed to Harry Potter, oftentimes suffer from neglect, offering guests half-baked experiences with slipping attraction and land quality. In addition to these, I also explore a number of other miscellaneous but smaller issues that culminate in an experience that needs to improve if Universal is to be the competitor that they should be.
Logo Background Source: / @freestuff-motiongraphics
Various Media Sources: pastebin.com/Z...
Many of the music tracks found in my videos can be located on Epidemic Sound: www.epidemicso...
If you enjoy the content on this channel, I encourage you to hit the like button, as well as subscribe with bell notification to be alerted when new videos are released.
Follow me on 🐤 Twitter: / poseidonentmt
Follow me on ▶️Facebook: / poseidon-entertainment...
Follow me on 📷 Instagram: / poseidonentertainmentyt

[@hanonondricek411]

The plot of so many rides is "This is a normal tour of- OH NO SOMETHING HAS GONE HORRIBLY WRONG!" I wish they'd try something new.

[@blakedorn24]

lmao literally. except velocicoaster which is crazy because it’s the only jurassic park thing that has ever turned out right

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I definitely agree. A large issue with narrative for screen-based attractions is how they usually follow this formula. I think that's a major reason why I enjoy Flight of Passage so much. It's all about the atmosphere, and while there is conflict, it doesn't dominate the entire experience.

[@500ccRabbit]

This. It feels like it's trying to be meta but it comes off as lazy.

[@triggeredbeetle5370]

@@PoseidonEntertainment also flight of passage is the most groundbreaking and immersive screen ride ive ever been on. you can literally feel the banshee breathing and the smells of all of the environments. I can actually feel my stomach drop with flight of passage, no other screen ride has done that for me.

[@thefuture4527]

The only ride that has that I kinda of like with that story is jimmy neutron one

[@bryarhlavaty3072]

What annoys me most is fast and furious was the perfect opportunity for another fast paced mini coaster like the mummy. Instead of following that path they opted for yet another screen

[@GookSquadGaming]

To be fair to universal and I’m not trying to shill. But fast and furious is designed exactly how it is supposed to be. It’s a high volume attraction, the reason why that’s there instead of another mummy type ride is to get more guests out of other ride lines. Could it be better yes but they need a high Capacity ride there.

[@ladyjane8855]

They get a lot of guests complaining that they can't ride roller coasters because physics. Screen rides accommodate all shapes and sizes which opens them up to most guests. I guess you can't please all of the people all of the time.

[@effusivefugitive]

@@ladyjane8855 I doubt many would be complaining if they were making both standard rides and accessible, family-friendly screen rides. The problem is that they're making everything a screen ride, including rides like Gringott's and Kong that are certainly not suitable for all guests. That's just saving money.

[@aaronrumph3291]

The problem with fast and the furious is that they didn't replace the ride Fast and the furious was replacing but just modified the old ride to accommodate for the new attraction. making screens cost a heck of a lot less than completely retracking the attraction to make a new ride.

[@JayRy]

It’s so bad especially considering FAF is their biggest IP in recent years

[@TheoVasiloudes]

The “cheaply painted on” detailing at Portofino is actually an authentic reproduction of the real Portofino in Italy, which uses the same trompe l’oeil style to represent brickwork and detail on their buildings. The resort is a literal scale model of the real location in Italy. The only other resort on Universal property that commits to its theme this much is Cabana Bay. Portofino is far and away the best premium hotel - amazing ambiance, commitment to detail, and multiple amazing dining options. Only downside is that it’s the farthest to walk from.

[@kylemckee1708]

And not to mention- the 3 pools alone to choose from puts this hotel at the top tier!

[@Spidermonkey260]

I didn't love it. It had limited food options and the room wasn't anything too amazing.

[@wt7553]

It’s only about a 12-15 minute walk which isn’t too bad at all.

[@DZstudios.]

YEs

[@leanen6424]

It doesn't lookvgreat tho tbh, I've been to several Italian cities and universals resort doesn't really carry the atmosphere. The other thing is that Portofino is characterized by the setting on the Amalfi coast, and obviously they can't recreate that at universal. I think it's still a great resort but theme wise probably my least favorite

[@TCMACK]

Universal adding a Mount Crumpet to Suess Landing sounds like an amazing idea. Not only would it help to revitalize Suess Landing and possible get Universal to spend some money fixing the rest of the land, but the Grinch is an IP that is both popular and has stood the test of time. My only concern would be if going with the Jim Carry adaptation, which I assume they would do, would clash with the rest of the land. Either way, Universal should definitely jump on this opportunity.

[@coreymason7017]

I don’t think it would clash too much as that version of the grinch is a meet and greet and a show during grinchmas.

[@TCMACK]

@@coreymason7017 That is true. I’ve never been to Universal myself, but Dr. Seuss is something that they should definitely be looking into revitalizing, considering that Illumination’s the Grinch made just over half a billion dollars at the box office. I’m not saying they should base this off of that version, but it’s proof that interest in Dr. Seuss still exists.

[@ashleighelizabeth5916]

Based on how hard they were pushing Grinch themed merchandise at the beginning of November it seems like a smart idea to me. I'm not convinced they would do the Carey version of Grinch as the movie is largely forgotten these days and the original cartoon is still well loved and the version of choice for all of the merch that Universal is selling.

[@RariettyC]

I'd bet they'd just go with the Illumination version of the Grinch instead. Less nostalgic but those renditions of the characters would slot in to that section of the park a lot more easily. It could be Florida's equivalent of that Secret Life of Pets ride, except it's a coaster that goes through physical sets within the mountain instead of a dark ride

[@AllieBee00]

@@ashleighelizabeth5916 now I agree with you but I also don’t because I know I can’t be the only one watching the live action grinch regularly between November and December 😭😭

[@mellojoe9421]

Honestly, no theme park is perfect. But, I think there certainly should be a balance between how any company makes money, and pleasing it’s guests. And compared to Disney, universal has definitely been a guest pleaser... for the most part.

[@greninjaguy5264]

Somewhat sadly, yeah. It makes me feel bad since Disney has been a big part of my life, but they really don't care anymore, and are just doing away with everything that made them once good, preferring lazier alternatives. It's good to see that universal is doing amazing in their place though, what with the new attractions and even lands they've added to their parks in recent years. Until disney actually does something good for once now, I don't think I'll really go back.

[@PatThePerson]

@@greninjaguy5264 things like that are cyclical. Maybe a decade from now you’ll be saying “ Disney is awesome and universal is a let down, the new ceo only cares about how fast comcast internet is”

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

At the very least, the company seems to recognize some of the major issues and is working to rectify them. That in itself speaks volumes about where they're going, even if it's going to take a while to fix.

[@Robert-jz7hq]

@@PatThePerson I don't see how calling out the current management for their worse than poor decisions is cynical. Cynical would be, "I doubt Disney parks will ever be as good as they once were." I do think Disney can come back but they need to gut their upper management, acknowledge the poor choices made, and lay out how they plan on fixing those things. Removing Chapek will be the first nearly insurmountable challenge.

[@StuffedVulture]

@@Robert-jz7hq Michael 23 didn't write "cynical", he wrote "cyclical."

[@STSGuitar16]

The thing is, I look at screens pretty much all day, every day. Screens are so ubiquitous in every single thing we do in our lives, and when I pay that high disney money (ostensibly as a vacation; a break from looking at screens all the time), I want to see something spectacular that I would never be able to see in my day-to-day life. Idc how advanced it may be, at the end of the day, screens are just screens. They are not "magical" things for us to see at this point in 2021. You know what I can't go see every day? Massive animatronics, highly detailed physical sets, places I could only dream of being able to physically experience. For the most part, screens are generally the lazy way of making an attraction. Make Disney have practical sets for dark rides again!

[@CDRachelsauthorofMMroman-ee4ci]

i agree which is why i love love love walking through Toon Lagoon and adore the ET ride and teh CAt in the Hat (even if things 1 and 2 give me nightmares now)

[@STSGuitar16]

@@CDRachelsauthorofMMroman-ee4ci I’ve only been to Universal Orlando once and ET was probably my second favorite ride there by a good bit. For me it goes 1. Forbidden Journey (pretty sure Hagrid’s would be number one on my list, but we actually waited in line for Hagrid’s for a long time and the ride ended up going down and never opened back up didn’t get to ride) and 2. ET. A more accurate list for me (had i ridden Hagrid’s) would probably be 1. Hagrid’s 2. Forbidden Journey and 3. ET. Either way, that ride stands out to me, especially in such a screen-heavy park. What’s sad is that I doubt very seriously that that ride will last beyond the 2020s unless they have some big remake of et that sparks a new generation of fans or something like that. I’ve personally never even seen the movie, but everything about that ride was just awesome. The ride vehicles, the scenery, the smell (just has that sort of old building smell that I liked lol, it just makes it feel like the historic opening day attraction that it is), the length, all of it was really really cool. It is like a better, longer version of the Peter Pan ride at Disney. I always feel underwhelmed by the like 90 second Peter Pan ride, but ET was just like a more fun, longer version of that and i very much enjoyed it. It will be really sad whenever that ride gets the axe. There’s no way they’ll keep it for much longer.

[@charlesintune]

​@@STSGuitar16 it will stay because Spielberg has it in contract: "you take away ET, I take away Jurassic park and jaws". That's why it's still around, because no one wants to eff with Spielberg

[@STSGuitar16]

@@charlesintune ahhh I didn’t know that. That’s great to hear! Long live ET! Such a cool ride

[@ReynaldoAbasr]

bring back the REAL RIDES AND MAKE IT REALISTIC, MAKE IT BIGGER BADDER, AND BETTER

[@citizenofcorona8783]

The problem with the Transformers Ride is exactly one of the same major problems the movies have - it's just a bunch of shit thrown at you on the screen.

[@ashleighelizabeth5916]

I didn't even bother when my mom told me how loud it was since I've seen several of the movies. I have enough health issues when trying to do all the theme park rides without getting a headache from a mediocre ride of an IP I have almost no interest in.

[@martysquirll5960]

Honestly the ride is pretty on brand with the crappy movies.

[@kstarr3555]

I think the ride just doesn’t excite as much as it should because it’s basically a clone of Spider-Man. If you’ve ridden Spider-Man your whole life and then rode transformers for the first time exited for the experience idk how you could leave feeling fulfilled. And even the climax of the ride centers on the same theme, dropping from a building. Never have been a fan of transformers since my first ride for this reason

[@SoGoodContent]

I don’t always agree with your points or opinions HOWEVER, the sheer quality of your videos and dedication to giving a point plenty of time to dive into keeps me coming back!

[@Pollo.a.la.crema.]

This! Considering Disney fans are typically optimistic (me) and he has intense pessimistic takes, I tend to disagree with a lot but keep coming back because they are rational and reasonable takes tbh and great video quality/editing

[@SoGoodContent]

@@Pollo.a.la.crema. yea if Im being honest the extremely negative takes kind of help me balance my opinion out. He's a bit much with the negative takes BUT perhaps Im a bit too optimistic and I find myself much more balanced in my opinions on the parks

[@iamperish]

Universal doesn't have the benefit of "Universal Adults". Compared to Disney, each property is it's own thing. Universal is more focused on selling you the individual IPs rather than the company brand.

[@Tvfromtpot131]

Makes sense for a company called “universal”

[@jgatzby7798]

For likely at least the next five years, if not decade, it just seems like Universal is on the up trend, while Disney is down. I think it will be more glaring once Uni’s Epic Universe opens (a serious potential contender to be DisneySea-level theming) and while Disney try’s to focus on low cost rethemes, attraction reskins, and upsell park’s experiences.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I wouldn't hazard to say that Epic will reach Disney Sea levels of theming because that's just such an incredibly high standard to reach, but I do anticipate that it should still be pretty mind-blowing. Just Super Nintendo World itself continues to astound.

[@bryanwood8334]

Um have you been to the original Universal Studios Park recently? That shouldn't be allowed to call it self a theme park. There is more immersment in a county fair. I was there recently it was terrible. The rides are all the same. Just seemed like Universal was being cheap. Im not sure what up trend you are referring to. Disneys Pandora? Star Wars land? What has Universal done recently? Jurassic Park and Hagrid are great rides but what did they do to improve the atrocity that is the original Park? All I have to say is Fast and Furious.....thats all you need

[@wt7553]

@@bryanwood8334 did you watch the video? He covers all that. The similarity of screen based rides is the first criticism. The upward trend is from the overall success both Harry Potter lands and the new VelociCoaster. Read up on Epic Universe. It’s going to open in 2025 and be incredible.

[@jgatzby7798]

@@bryanwood8334 Outside of SW:GE, which I’ll admit looks great and Rise of the Resistance is amazing (but sadly has hardly any characters and land kinetics), Disney seems to be going head first back to the Pressler days. The Pixar Pier retheme, arguably Tower of Terror Guardians retheme (which maybe considered a draw - nice indoor retheme; terrible exterior retheme) and Avengers Campus, which one could fairly argue has a worse shooter attraction experience below even Six Flags Justice League and Legoland Ninjaro. Also, while the Fast and Furious Orlando experience is fairly a ‘Super Star Limo’-level Universal park embarrassment, it could be argued that Fast and the Furious experience is far superior to Disney’s regional mall/county fair -level embarrassment that is Ant-Man and Wasp Nano Battle at Hong Kong Disneyland. Much of the recent Disney park highlights, like Pandora, Star Wars and CarsLand were approved by Iger; in the early part of the Chapek era, what has Bob approved that Disney has coming out beyond 2023 that looks better than Universal’s Epic Universe?

[@ladyjane8855]

@@bryanwood8334 The expanded Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom was underwhelming (don't get me started on the Ariel ride) and I'll probably be dead before Tron and Guardians opens. Meanwhile, Universal has built Hagrids, Velocicoaster, etc using new technology while simultaneously building a whole new theme park - something Disney should have done 10 years ago to deal with the high crowd levels. The opinion that Universal is trying harder is perfectly justified. No doubt Disney will continue building hotels and increasing ticket pieces while cutting guest services.

[@keithj1974]

To those of us who are not prisoners of nostalgic Disney trips from our youth, your videos are fantastic. Disney leadership is obsessed with profit margins. The used the pandemic as an excuse to take away almost all complimentary benefits of staying on property or coming to the parks. I still go to Disneyworld, but the "magic" is definitely gone.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I still go because I appreciate the many classic attractions. I love Pirates, Haunted Mansion, Living with the Land and Spaceship Earth among many others, but I cannot deny that other experiences have really turned me off. I rarely find myself going to Hollywood Studios because of how little interests me, and the two things that do always have ridiculously long waits.

[@ashe767]

Hey, I definitely am prisoner to my nostalgia, but I've just gotten more realistic about the fact that Disney doesn't want to provide the kind of experience that I'm nostalgic for. These videos are pretty cathartic, actually.

[@MagicalBread]

@@PoseidonEntertainment I’m new to the channel, and I love your honesty. My family goes to Disneyland every winter and I am also a sucker for all the classic rides. I’ve never been to Hollywood Studios or Animal Kingdom so it’s interesting to hear your opinion on that. I really hope Disney will start listening to us fans and supporters instead of profit margins.

[@pharoahcaraboo9610]

'the transformers ride is confusing' i think honestly thats just an issue with the source material in this case NBFJKDSHBJKSD

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

The ride seems to devolved from the franchise other than the first film though. The premise is simply "protect the AllSpark" and batter everyone with as much action as possible. Granted, it does a good job of putting you right into those action scenes, but never gives you time to breath or process anything.

[@pharoahcaraboo9610]

@@PoseidonEntertainment as a person who likes the transformers franchise and the bay movies specifically way more than they deserve, i think the most common 'issue' with the movies themselves is that they are hard to follow and difficult to remember. i've watched the first 3 a lot and still have trouble completely recounting the plots. the movies basically only ever had 1 clear, engaging and memorable fight scene in the second film. so yeah, that sounds about right for a ride derived from the movies, even just the first!

[@KageReya]

You make a lot of good points although I do feel Universal is trying much harder than the other parks at moving in the right direction. I expect Epic Universe to deal a major blow to Disney unless they step up their game substantially.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I agree. Disney is currently putzing around with no substantial response to this park. People often cry out that Tron and Guardians are how Disney will stay competitive... but no.

[@STSGuitar16]

Dude, so glad to see you address this. Those "universal shill" commenters simply do not understand the points you make since you aren't sugar-coating the disney problems rn. They interpret those non-praising points as you hating disney, therefore you must be a "universal shill" in their eyes, when the opposite is true. You clearly have a passion for disney parks, and because of that, you just don't like seeing them go the way they're going now and wish disney would return to its former glory. Great stuff as always!

[@everyonesfavoritesejong]

I am a Universal Shill so I love these videos giving Universal its much deserved spotlight. (I especially love Florida as that's the only one I've been to and easily beats the others)

[@ddpg9976]

Disney has switched their branding to just being a big store that people like to go to and buy, when it was once a family destination. They have out priced families and are focused in the wealthy and single non-married couples. They really need to figure it out soon.

[@CdrChaos]

Because you’re not allowed to criticize Disney without being a shill for their competition.

[@jamesmiller7809]

I've been having these same discussions with friends, and as a Team Member, I agree with these points. I think guests would love a revamped Lost Continent with new attractions, or something taking the place of Sinbad. The closing of Shrek is actually quite exciting to me (No offense to Shrek fans) because we get to see something new for USF. I personally LOVE the creative and financial direction the company is moving in. I think that Universal is very much aware of improvements that need to be made. It just might take some time is all.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I agree. I like Shrek as a property, but it really is better to replace it. I also agree that the company seems to be moving in a more positive direction.

[@AttractionIdeas]

All good points. The one thing I can’t agree with you on is your stance on Cat in the Hat. Absolute blasphemy! With its degradation and neglect over the years, that ride has become a black mark on the resort. If we’re talking the Cat from like 10+ years ago then I’m with ya all the way, but now no shot! But you know what, if you’re still able to enjoy it despite that then more power to ya champ

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I believe that the storytelling of the attraction is fundamentally sound, but I agree that it's lack of maintenance holds it back. Perhaps I'm in the minority, but I think it's one of the best attractions created by Universal.

[@benjacobs574]

Screens on larger rides should be there to enhance the experience, not to be the experience, done well on Forbidden journey, Spiderman, and Disney used a few screen on Dinosaur’s last update that work well. It’s also fair enough to use it when you have limited land to be able to make what must be a slower moving ride feel more exciting, only when done well of course. Then with 4d theatres, Disney definitely do them a bit better by adding something other than just the screen - bugs life animatronics, muppets animatronics, and laugh floor interactivity. Universal have been in a stage where they use extensive screens to save on costs. After however many years they realise that guests don’t rate the rides as highly and then go back go intensive physical sets. Disney are doing this a bit at the moment. I find Disney spends a lot more money than Universal for similar or lesser quality new attractions (compared to the new physical-theming-intensive Universal rides). Toy story land cost a similar amount to Hogsmeade, and is quite certainly a worse land.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

You make good points here. It's also astounding to me what Disney continues to spend as well. All that money just for a Toy Story themed version of Paradise Pier? I can't even conceive why so much money is being wasted.

[@jstnnixon]

Completely agree, most of us stare at screens all day long. Theme parks should be an escape from that.

[@illusikari]

It’s funny because one of my old teacher told me that her husband was actually an architect in Seuss Land! I think they did a great job there, it looks really immersive.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I agree. It's strange architecture often goes overlooked but I appreciate what it's trying to do.

[@darkinetix]

Let me tell you. I remember when IOA was just a diorama in the original USO King Kong (RIP) queue. It gave me the chills every time I’d see it and I couldn’t believe it was happening. I worked my very first job in Jurassic Park at IOA. I’ll always have a special place for IOA in my heart (along with the OG Dueling Dragons). So it’s really, truly heartbreaking to see big chunks of both parks fall into a state of disrepair. But I digress… I think with advancements in robotics, Orlando parks in the future will reinvest in rides with cheaper/better animatronics - and maybe one day human actors will become more incorporated as well, as the GP seek out more tactile, analog experiences. The old T2 now Jason Bourne require human actors that are just as, if not more important than the show’s special effects. I see attractions with this dynamic making a big comeback someday. As things like VR/AR expand, and our reliance on screens at home continues to be a (sad) fact-of-life, people will crave these getaways to be truly immersed in experiences that give a real life effect. Unfortunately Disney (of course) has already morphed this approaching trend into the ridiculously expensive Galactic Starcruiser… but this type of thing will have to go widespread (and cheaper) if they want people to keep shelling out 100s if not 1000s to come to their parks. Lastly, these parks would be sooo much better if they weren’t line items on the ledgers for massive corporations, hands down. You’d think with all the money on either side it wouldn’t be an issue but that’s exactly the problem. They’re only motivated by revenue and fueling their individual ecosystems. They also don’t really have to fight smaller parks because of “must-sees” like Harry Potter or Cinderella’s Castle, plus their overall parent org finances. The parks are being treated like little more than a plaything for IP advertisements. Truly wow’ing guests is now an afterthought behind getting in the guests’ bank accounts, and then cost cutting everywhere possible. That’s a real problem between both Universal and Disney parks. Hopefully we are at the start of a great renaissance. I’m both frustrated and patiently optimistic for the future of Orlando’s key parks. Sorry so long. Awesome video and channel!

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I'm optimistic about where Universal is going though. They didn't have to put in the Velocicoaster, but it seems like a genuine artistic effort, even if themed to Jurassic World. I certainly take your point that IPs are often simply dropped in because they can do so, as Fast and Furious serves as the best example. However, Universal seems to have acknowledged the poor feedback from attractions like these and appears to be in the beginning of its own revitalization.

[@darkinetix]

@@PoseidonEntertainment definitely agree with you there. I think Universal does seem to have more heart at this time, and hopefully all the feedback from F&F, RRR, and so many screen based rides has definitely turned them in the right direction. Epic Universe and next steps from here will paint a fuller picture for sure!

[@JakeCoasters]

People just don't understand the concept that you can like something while pointing out its flaws

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

It's interesting how a lot of people seem to take personal offense when I criticize Disney.

[@JakeCoasters]

@@PoseidonEntertainment IMO it just shows that you care and want to see them do better. I'm a Universal fanboi and I'm always critical of them when they do nonsense like F&F or Rockit...but then praise them when they do Veloci. Luckily, I feel guest feedback goes a longer way at Universal

[@andrewcb9255]

Great video as usual! I’ve always said that Toon Lagoon is the best land in the park for the reasons you mentioned, and I can most definitely agree that it and Suess Landing need some sorts revitalization (that isn’t a retheme of the area like a lot of people seem to suggest). My biggest problem personally that I’ve found with Universal (Orlando especially) is the live character entertainment, which has seemed to lack ever since the parks opening. The park originally had a plethora of streetomsphere characters and performers roaming the park, entertaining and greeting guests of all ages. However, a surprising amount of these characters have been retired altogether, (especially over the past few years) for seemingly no reason or explanation. It’s really made for a less lively park I feel

[@AggroCEC]

I like this video, most of the points you made here are very true and valid. I especially agree with the neglected lands like Seuss landing, toon lagoon, Kidzone, etc. The only one i disagreed with was with Rip Ride Rockit. I found it to be very thrilling and fun. I sat in the back btw, Each pop into the brake runs gave excellent ejector, the bottom of the first drop and the weird oval turn thing (I forgot it’s name) at before the final brake run gave very strong positives back there. I also liked the music selection. Aside from that, great video!

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I think that's also another opinion I'm in the minority with. I would just rather Universal tear down the ride and replace it with a Gerstlauer or something.

[@NutsAndThighs]

@@PoseidonEntertainment My friend and I rode it back in September, and perhaps yes it's a minority thought, but we 100% agreed it was rough and a head rattler compared to the butter smooth Velocicoaster. Park employees even made it a point to us to mention how *smooth* the new coaster was and that it *wouldn't* make you sick from head rattling turns. I can sometimes get motion sickness from rides, and the rip-rocket was the worst offender of all the coasters, whereas Hagrid's and Velocicoaster my main feeling after the ride was exhilaration (and my soul returning to my body after Velocicoaster!)

[@AggroCEC]

@@NutsAndThighs I don’t think it’s better than velocicoaster. That punches it to death

[@AggroCEC]

@@NutsAndThighs I just think it’s a solid and underrated coaster

[@DZstudios.]

Portofino is a GREAT hotel in my opinion many buildings in Italy actually have details painted onto them

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

Even the bricks? I couldn't get over how cheap it looked.

[@DZstudios.]

@@PoseidonEntertainment budget cuts are not that new

[@AlejandroRuizAlcocer]

@@PoseidonEntertainment not only generally in Italy, but Portofino houses themselves are painted like that. That's why DisneySea Miracosta has painted details too (not to say Universal and Disney used this as an excuse to save some bucks).

[@nonsensology]

@@PoseidonEntertainment It's actually authentic to the real life Portfino! All the buildings have painted on details, which are actually examples of trompe l’oeil, an optical illusion technique that is comparable to forced perspective. The Portofino recreation that's in Tokyo DisneySea also uses this.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

@@nonsensology Whelp, I feel foolish.

[@robertr8873]

I continue to watch your videos based upon an unbiased analysis of Disney and Universal. Harping on the problems Disney management has crested isn’t indicative of you being a Universal fanboy, but rather identifying why Disney has broadly declined and Universal has started to work its way towards the top. Another great video! Keep up the great work!

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I wouldn't say that I'm unbiased as I throw in a lot of opinion, but I appreciate the sentiment.

[@NoelsterSF]

Great video, your points are quite valid I feel. The Simpsons is a jarring visual blight on both Universal Studios parks and the reliance on screens is disappointing. But, as you point out, they seem to have identified the screen issue and are working to rectify that impression with each new ride. Now if they'd only pour some $$$ into repairing/replacing the more neglected areas.

[@gabrielPKBboy]

The cat in the hat ride is one of my favorite to go on with my friends. We call it a horror ride because how the characters look and act. The animatronics eyes are mostly white since the pupil paint has just worn off. It’s just a huge fever dream and me and my friends just scream every time the cat and the things come out.

[@NocturneFexy]

I think it's funny that Universal recognizes that E.T. is a classic ride that many love but they don't do anything about it. Hopefully after The Mummy gets its big refurbishment, E.T. comes next. Also, I think screens can be good when used properly like other people said. Where I take issue is when almost every ride in the park is a simulator of some form. I like a good variety of attractions in parks and Universal Studios is pretty terrible at it. I'd say out of all of the big Florida theme parks (Considering I haven't been to SeaWorld or Busch Gardens yet. Those places don't seem to appeal to me too much), Universal Studios Orlando is by far the weakest because of its overly repetitive ride selection. Islands is much better, but yeah it needs some serious TLC.

[@MCLegoboy]

I honestly didn't know half the stuff you were talking about in Seuss Landing and Toon Lagoon were even a thing. Growing up with an annual pass, while my family had the ability to go around the park slowly and take our time, we also were doing all the major attractions first and foremost, never really taking the time to meander. Afterall, we had the annual passes because they were cheap enough, we lived close by, and those attractions we went to were the whole point of going to the parks, not even as a kid was I all that interested in running around the park pushing buttons and whatnot, I wanted to go on the rides. Sometime around 2005 is when we could no longer afford them, and I've only been to Universal's parks twice, maybre three times, but I can't remember. Also, I don't know anything in Toon Lagoon other than Popeye, Betty Boop, and Hagar the Horrible, and even then, only one has a ride, the other two are set dressing. It hasn't been until recently that I've actually watched a number of Popeye's cartoons, Betty Boop is just kind of a staple of at least American Pop Culture with her design that it can be seen anywhere and recognized despite most not knowing much about her, and occasionally as a kid, I went through the comics section of a newspaper and saw Hagar every now and then, that's it. I've also just never been much of a fan of 60s character designs, which seem to be the most prevalent in Toon Lagoon with Dudley being the one with a ride. I'm not saying get rid of the land, the rides are great, but even as a kid going to the park in the late 90s and early 2000s, it was not of much interest since I didn't know what I was looking at most of the time because it was way before my time, and that time continues to fall further into obscurity, so it may need some updating with more relevant characters added in, maybe one with a ride. There's a certain amphitheater inbetween Marvel and Toon that I've literally never seen anything used for or even scheduled, let's take that out and add another Toon attraction. I've learned that Islands of Adventure is actually primarily themed around different books and sources of reading material, and that's a neat concept, but I am notoriously bad about reading anything, so the park lived and died off the themed lands based off visual representations that were either baked into the material like Marvel and Seuss, or were made into movies like Jurassic Park and now Harry Potter, and all four of those seem to be things that will live on for a long time still, but Toon Lagoon has always been something I've just walked through in order to get to Popeye and then Jurassic Park despite still fitting the concept of the park. In regards to your thoughts on The Lost Continent, ugh, that was one of my favorite sections of the park. While not based off anything specific, the theming was spectacular. I do regret never riding Dueling Dragons as a child and have completely missed out on ever riding it, but Poseidon and Sinbad were the best! Sinbad was designed to be cheesy and it certainly appealed to me. It was in the same vain as Clyde & Seymour out at SeaWorld. Fun physical comedy in a pulp adventure, and I was sad to hear it had closed. I hope Poseidon is truly getting a refurbishment and not going anywhere because going from room to room and going on a treasure hunt with curses and traps was always fun. And then that final section with the tunnel of water and the room on the other end collapsing and opening up into this gigantic battle between the forces of good and evil, I LIVE FOR IT! I was so disappointed to see it was closed when relatives were down here in September. I also love that talking fountain in the area, and I'm glad he's still in operation. I have no disdain for Harry Potter coming in and taking half the land, the parts I cared most for still existed, plus the rides for Harry Potter are also pretty rad, I just hope that the half of The Lost Continent that's still around can make a comeback. As for Universal proper, yeah man, too many screens, not all of them bad, but I don't get the thrills as much as I could. Personally, I find the Simpsons to be a pretty fun ride as they are taking shots at all of Orlando's Parks and noting at how silly it is that we go to these things for entertainment. Gringott's was a big disappointment because not only did it not look or act anything like the cars in the movie, but on top of that, you kept going from screen to screen while the actual coaster portions of the ride were in complete darkness. Honestly, I feel it was a mistake to try and tie it in with the preexisting story from The Deathly Hallows because the ride seems to be more focused on making that tie in happen instead of just having a fun indoor coaster like Revenge of the Mummy. I found Transformers to be fun, but since we used the express pass, I feel like I missed out on some key info as to what the point of the ride was. Conversely, Fast and Furious has the exact opposite problem because all express pass does is put you int eh exposition room earlier, and I still didn't know what was happening on the actual ride anyway. Race through New York is a fun ride, but like you said, it suffers from being in a park with so many other screen attractions. And Minions is just Jimmy Neutron which was just Hanna Barbera, and I'll never be mad about it. E.T. needs some serious love because it broke my heart we didn't get any exposition on the ride or have our names taken for E.T. to say them at the end. Even without that, the ride should have still been more fun than it was, and it's because so much has slowed down or stopped working. I've heard Spielberg demands this ride stay or he'll pull from doing anything with Universal ever again, and good, I don't think it should go, but it needs help. Ironically, E.T. needs his help, not ours. Regardless, the Universal parks will always be my preferred parks in Orlando should I ever get the chance to go. While I haven't been to Disney's parks as often and don't harbor childhood nostalgia by having had an annual pass like I did Universal, the times I have gone, I've always been a little annoyed at how things go during the day and only when I'm done do I think, "You know, I did have fun today." When I've been to Universal, it's always been fun the whole day, and ever since I was last there in September, I've been having the itch to return.

[@ashleighelizabeth5916]

Funny thing is comic strips are still a thing. And there are some really good ones out there. I'm 49 so I recognized a lot more of it than you probably did and in some ways I'm an old 49 who spent a lot of her youth around more adults than children. But I'd love to see IPs like Opus (or Bloom County) or Pearls Before Swine or Get Fuzzy which are all still relevant in the funny pages (as my uncle used to call them).

[@idunois]

Yes to your point on Poseidon's Fury! It is just a great adventure walkthru. The mystic fountain is one of my favorites. It's just a simple comedy show that I can not stop watching. In 2019, She-Ra had a photo spot next to Mythos. That area by the water is always empty but it has great views plus you get to be under Atlas.

[@poopwizardd]

I was looking for a comment about lost conintent, ill be heartbroken if they get rid of the area.

[@queenboudicca31]

I disagree about the food ... the last time we were at Disney, any counter service was overpriced, tasted microwaved, and the wait for the food was way too long. There are some exceptions, but you pay (talking about castle dining!) ... but for the most part, you are right on. I enjoy your videos very much.

[@PatThePerson]

Clearly you ain’t been to satuli. Animal kingdom has some of the best food on property

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

That can definitely often be the case, but I'd rather pay for the overpriced cafeteria food at Cosmic Rays than the pig slop at Comic Strip Café. I also feel that Disney does offer some pretty exceptional meals, especially at their hotels and Disney Springs. California Grill, Sanaa, STK, and Homecomin' come to mind.

[@melvinlee9263]

Universal's parks and resorts are much more enjoyable than Disney's "Death by a Thousand Cuts" approach.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

Overall yes, but I still would like to see a lot more money coming to Toon Lagoon or Seuss Landing.

[@HunterSlayer2727]

@@PoseidonEntertainment I always hold the hope that someday in my lifetime maybe Six Flags would lose the rights to Looney Toons and DC Comics so Warner Bros would make a deal with Universal and bring them to the parks. I look at Toon Lagoon and worry its much too Outdated now as the Popeye animated project was cancelled, Betty Boop has a cult following and alot of Comic Strip style characters that are shown are very unknown. Now I know sometimes bringing things just because they're more modern is a bad thing as it can age a ride quicker than the older attraction. But I was thinking if like I said Six Flags didn't renew their contract or Warner bought them out, Toon Lagoon could transition into a Hannah Barbera Avenue as their iconic characters are still relevant imo. Looney Toons and Tom and Jerry having their own crazy attractions. You might think what about Scooby Doo? I have thought on it and while it'd be cool to just add into it, I feel due to its use of monsters, it'd transition well into its own smaller area honestly. I'd love to ride a Haunted Mansion style dark ride where your vehicle is a mini mystery machine with a lovely spooky ambience with fog machines and dark blue/green lighting for night time. Again its just a dream but one I've always wished would come true. From my suspicious I think Toon Lagoon might become Spongebob attraction which I think would be a waste as it'd date itself after the generation who grew up on Spongebob grew up. Scooby Doo due to its constant franchise reboots is a better choice and would give the meet and greets a permanent home finally instead of just the street.

[@snarkus63]

I've only been to Islands Of Adventure once, shortly after it opened, and I'd hate to think that Seuss' Landing and Toon Lagoon would both eventually succumb to neglect. Exploring the former area was one of the true highlights of that trip.

[@Cayla2015]

After just recently being at Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando, all the screen rides seemed stale. All the newest rides at Universal and Disney were great, it's definitely a matter of updating the oldest properties and some retheming is definitely needed

[@pegmama8]

YES I’m so glad someone else recognizes the genius of Suess Landing! I came to the park for HP only but left thinking Suess Landing was on the same level! Killer area

[@mitchzurbrigg2403]

E.T. Will never be removed. When jaws closed they threw away the orca boat which was an original from the movie. When Spielberg found out and saw it chopped up in a dumpster behind the studio, he threatened Universal saying if they ever closed E.T. he would never make another movie with them and would only work with Disney from now on. So they came to an agreement and it's in a contract that if E.t. ever closes Spielberg will refuse to make another movie for them

[@chicken_nugget365]

source?

[@christianhelgeson3712]

"Citywalk offers a number of decent dining options, my favorite being Cowfish" Subscribed. You are clearly a man of taste.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I'm unsure if you're being sarcastic or not.

[@christianhelgeson3712]

@@PoseidonEntertainment No, Cowfish is great.

[@chefpeanut6214]

Thank you!! for mentioning how low quality the food is at Universial, me and some buddies got into a conversation about how they need to hire a new culinary team or hire one if they dont. They only reason I want to go to Dinsey now is the food, Universal wins on every other point

[@bjvincent8786]

Great video as always! While I have not been to Universal Studios I feel topics like (to screen or not to screen) and/or (IP vs. Non-IP) in attractions be it Universal or Disney. They all follow the same rule as other things in life: excess is not good and I think screens can become a crutch that designers go to when actually doing it for real or with audio- animatronic would be too difficult. I think screens are a good thing when used appropriately, and I have no objection to using them to depict something that would be impractical to do with practical effects. However, screens will never give the same experience as a ride that is all practical effects for example imagine the ride "It's A Small World" without the animatronic dolls but existing on only 3D screens. For motion simulators and interactive attractions, screens make sense, but for everything else I would rather have a practical set with limited screen usage. Practical effects, make you feel like you are in the middle of the action, with screens, no matter how well they are blended into the scene, I've always felt I was watching the action from the sidelines. Haunted Mansion, Indiana Jones Adventure, Pirates of the Caribbean if these rides were simply screens they would be average rides instead of being the best in the world. I guess to sum it up for me it not an argument for screens or not screens and/or IP vs. Non-IP in attractions; the argument is how ride developers must use the technology at their disposal to make for the most compelling ride experience possible. This may include practical effects or it may include screen effects, but it's the balance that makes it work. I have ridden rides that used all animatronics that bored me to death, and I have ridden rides with all screens that fell flat.

[@JudeKerman]

Universal Hollywood’s Simpson’s Land is much better. It’s better constructed and there’s more detail to see and do. I agree with your point.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I haven't been to Hollywood, so I know little about their iteration. I should find myself there sometime next year though.

[@GwydionAE]

The Lost Continent island was easily my favorite when I first attended IoA in 1999. It pains me to see what has become of it (much as I do adore Hogsmeade). I'd hate to see it officially put to bed, but at this point that might be the best option. Also saddened by the lack of care in Seuss Landing. I was never a Seuss fan, but I adore all the theming in that area of the park so much that I can't help but have a soft spot for it as well. Really hope they can revitalize it in the near future! And I have to agree about Springfield. It's well themed, but it feels so out of place, and it doesn't help that I don't personally have an attachment to the show it's based on.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

Something I always really liked about Lost Continent was how original it was. I get that it's based on actual stories, but their interpretation was so creative and interesting. It's a shame that Universal is also shackled by IP. I would like to see what they could do without it.

[@lcdexofi]

personally, i haven’t been to universal studios, but the way you described suess’ landing and toon lagoon makes me want to visit them. i absolutely LOVE when they get creative and put attention to even the smallest details that usually people wouldn’t even notice unless they look closer (some examples: the witty comic lines and the fish that squirts water at you when you throw a coin). and i agree, i truly hope they refurbish and maintain the quality of these places.

[@Keylimelife]

I think your screen-ride point was accurate but not just due to the pacing issue. Guests want to ride a ride to immerse themselves in the fantasy world from their favorite films - not to re-watch their favorite films while being shuffled around. Practical effects and animatronics are king.

[@Troopertroll]

12:54 When I went in August, the person working at the pearl shop said they were re-filling the water to do a full clean. She said that's more typical for when they want to update the ride and didn't think it was being removed.

[@kevinbhieey9188]

A lot of what you're seeing now at Universal Orlando is a direct cause of Epic Universe. When Disney or Universal begins the process of a new gate, everything else suffers. Moreso at Disney, of course, where they are trying to please stockholders more than guests, but even Universal has to cut corners when there are major expenditures. That said, I don't begrudge paint issues. Keeping things vibrant in Florida is not a realistic task. Epic Universe is already having a major effect on what's happening in the current parks. With Nintendo going into EU, it's affected both KidZone and Lost Continent. Had they started Super Nintendo World when they had originally planned, it probably would have opened this summer and they would've started work on transforming Lost Continent into Zelda and Pokémon would have been the big draw of EU. Even after sending Mario & company to EU, the planned opening date of 2023 bumped up against the deadline of the Nintendo contract, forcing Universal to fast-track plans for the Zelda and Pokémon lands to have SOME Nintendo attractions before the deadline. Nintendo apparently agreed to an extension - due to the pandemic and, most likely, Nintendo wanting Mario to open first - meaning the new Nintendo lands have been pushed so far back that they could no longer afford to keep ignoring either area as much as they have been (hence, the sudden appearance of the DreamWorks area and Poseidon's refurbishment... the level of commitment to these band-aids suggest Pokémon will be next and Zelda will probably wait until after that opens). EU also affects them in other areas. The other big for-sure for USF has always been the Ministry of Magic in the Fear Factor area. But EU stole that idea and now, apparently, USF will be getting a much cheaper VR experience with necessary updates to Mummy and Supercharged, the type of things these parks focus on when a new one is in the construction phase. Toon Lagoon was also supposed to get a DreamWorks makeover - the entire reason they bought DreamWorks was to have access to better animation IPs - but there have been hints that EU might have more of a DreamWorks presence than just Dragon. As for Springfield, you are definitely in the minority on this one. People love the land and love the ride which, unlike Transformers, tells a good, UNDERSTANDABLE story. Yeah, the Back to the Future people whine about it, but they are rewriting history. The ride told a good story but the film quality was awful, far too blurry and not in sync with the car movements, two things that cannot be said about its replacement. Also, it was always a walk-on before it was retired, while the Simpsons has maintained its popularity 13 years later, due in large part to it being funny. BttF certainly was not getting these lines when it went away after 14 years in Hollywood and 16 years in Orlando. You are spot on about the food, though. After IOA opened, Universal was insistent on maintaining food quality throughout the parks and hotels, and they've definitely been dropping that ball. The Springfield stuff has been surprisingly good, but other counters outside the Wizarding World definitely have their issues. That said, I had better meals at Toothsome and the NBC Sports place than I did at Cowfish, which may have served us the worst fries we have ever eaten. Does Universal have issues? Of course it does. But it is certainly doing more for guests than Disney is, or has been doing for decades.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I've heard a lot of this information before, but where does it come from? I'm not saying you're wrong, but a lot of rumors surrounding Universal have seemed to have turned out to be untrue and I imagine you wouldn't be sharing this if you had signed an NDA.

[@gladiatordragon9219]

Universal's core problems can be boiled down to the following: 1. Lack of Space - they really don't have the ability to add anything "new," unless they can just _barely_ squeeze them in like they did with Velocicoaster (even then, taking over the land used by a former attraction). Every time they build something new, something *has* to go, unless they're lucky enough to actually have that space. That Mt. Crumpet coaster you mentioned? They'd have to *really* squeeze it in, likely disrupting numerous backstage areas, as well as potentially causing problems for the seasonal Grinchmas show. The park already has a kiddie coaster (Hippogriff), and assuming it would be a Mine Train (the go-to family coaster type), my jaw would be on the floor if they managed to fit one there, if they even wanted to (since Hagrid serves that family coaster role pretty well already). 2. Overreliance on Screens - screens in and of themselves are not inherently "bad" to have in rides. The problem is when the screen *is* the ride. Spider Man, Forbidden Journey, and Bourne shift between the physical and the virtual pretty well. I'd argue Gringotts does a pretty good job of it too (could be better, but it isn't terrible), and Transformers tries to do so, but is a little too clumsy in execution. However - Fallon, Shrek, Simpsons, Fast and Furious, even Kong suffer from total reliance upon these screens. If there is no ride without the screen, what's the point when you can look at the screen from somewhere else? These elements *need* to be handled tastefully. 3. Under-dedication to certain attractions. While you did sing its praises, Cat in the Hat is in a truly miserable state, I'd argue it's in a state comparable to that of ET. They could both use a lot of work. The problem, however, is recursive. Less people ride (initially due to Universal's target audience shifting to teenagers/young adults) -> Less priority on the maintenance list -> Attraction's state gets worse -> Less people ride. It's a vicious cycle, and one that I hope Universal makes an effort to break. If the attraction's manufacturer has indeed stopped producing the parts, it might be favorable to convert the thing to a Trackless ride. The ride's chaotic story could probably *really* work wonders with such a system. I agree with you on Rockit - Maurer (particularly their X-Car model) was simply a terrible choice to go with. The crowds from a park as big as Universal are simply too much for an already rough model, and it doesn't even have any of the cool elements exclusive to the model (Check G-Force at Drayton Manor)! Rockit probably would have been better if it was handled by Gerstlauer. Side note: We need a good, large-scale Gerstlauer coaster in Florida. It would stand out pretty well among the competition. You're not alone on Simpsons - I find it a bit... much, especially since its main feature is a very unimpressive ride. It seems like it was a choice made more for marketing than really anything else. You could probably say that about a lot of the actions taken by Universal up until recently though. (but you did *not* just take a shot at Thunder Falls Terrace. I might have had a different experience than you, but I really liked it in the multiple times I've gone. Not saying it can't be improved, but it's not _that_ bad. I'd say I generally prefer it to Three Broomsticks, especially since it's typically a walk-in. Only problem I have is that I could get a superior half rack of ribs from Texas Roadhouse for almost half the price... but the location is superb.) Right now, I'd say Disney's going through the same phase Universal was. Making a lot of god-awful choices in the handling of their parks, getting overconfident in their attractions, and thinking they can do no wrong. After the thorough lashing Universal's gotten, they seem to have swung out of it, and are back to outputting quality attractions again. I'm hopeful that Epic Universe is the weapon Universal needs to definitively crack Disney's golden throne.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

1. I'm not entirely sure where the rumor came from, but I do see what looks to be a possible expansion pad right next to Cat in the Hat of about the same size. I imagine it would work if it was less like the Matterhorn and more like a thrilling version of the Sky Trolley. Not that I think something like this is the most feasible or necessary, 2. I agree with you there. I know the joke is that the queue of Supercharged is the best part of the attraction, but I went through today and it appeared that they opened up their extended queue just for pictures. This was definitely the more popular route as opposed to going right into the pre-shows and I thought it was amusing. I'm a huge fan of a Gerstlauer replacing Rock-It. The Euro-Fighter model seems like the perfect type of coaster to fill in such a narrow space and better deliver where Rock-It failed. I like the unique musically inspired "track elements" that Rock-It is going for, but it just doesn't work in execution. Admittedly, I haven't ever eaten at Thunder Falls, but it was my mistake to assume it was terrible. I've personally found Circus and Comic Strip revolting, and I had never heard anyone say anything positive about it. I suppose I'll go try it when I get the chance.

[@gladiatordragon9219]

@@PoseidonEntertainment To be fair, you don't really hear anything about Thunder Falls, period, and my taste for it could just by my affinity for barbecue in particular. I'd recommend giving it a go, but it looks like they've revised their menu since my last visit, swapping out the ribs for pernil. Given the Wikipedia entry, which says pernil is a pork dish typically served around Christmastime, and how the website still advertises ribs, this may be temporary, but I'm unsure. I'd keep my eye on it. If you don't find it to your liking, that's fine - I wasn't really all that offended. I just don't think it deserves to be lumped alongside the generic places. IMO, it's not really Mythos, but it doesn't need to be. (Also, don't bother with the milkshake. It's practically just a frostie you can get from Wendy's at a quarter of the price.) But yeah, Seuss Landing just needs a boost. Both new rides and refurbishments are in order.

[@logandepino8417]

"Pivoting towards six flags experience." Idk why but that made me chuckle, poor six flags, always gets dunked on.

[@ashleighelizabeth5916]

Honestly it's because they are the Walmart of theme parks. I spent years living in Atlanta going to SFOG almost annually (even had the season pass a couple of years) and they are the weakest major amusement parks I have ever been in. 1. The theming is terrible. Even in the best themed parts of the park (the DC areas) it is completely blown away by Busch Gardens/Sea World parks and comparing it to Universal or Disney is like comparing HS football to the NFL. 2. Janitorial services are substandard. They don't keep the parks clean enough and it's a real problem. The Bat Cave loading que for Batman the Ride is literally covered in years and years of chewing gum. 3. The parks are often not very attractive with not enough shade and way too much asphalt. This is an area that similarly priced Busch Gardens just completely destroys them in. 4. The food is horrific and just as overpriced as any other theme park. I've tried just about every area and every type of food at SFOG and with the exception of funnel cake everything I've ever eaten there was just revolting. 5. The patrons at SFOG were just trashy with way too many roving gangs of kids bouncing basketballs all over the park or obese rural kinfolk who's family tree didn't fork enough. Now that's not to say I didn't have a good time in Six Flags or that they don't have some good coasters, but I shop at Walmart too and I think just as little of them as I do of Six Flags.

[@jrfree88]

The content you produce is awesome. I agree. Universal has a hell of a lead on Disney. After living in Orlando for 8 yrs and going to all parks again and again I prefer universal hands down. If you work your ass off you can hit everything. Not to mention the attention to detail in the queue lines.

[@aaronsarchive82]

I'm really happy to see some love for the different cartoony areas in IoA. They do not get enough love and simply wonderfully detailed areas. I'm of the same opinion that it doesn't matter how familiar modern guests are with these properties. The characters have classic legacies and are presented in eye catching ways. The attractions are great and that's what matters. I have to strongly disagree with your opinion on The Simpsons. I'm a hardcore Simpsons fan, so I am biased, but I absolutely love walking through the Springfield area. It's small but it's a dream come true for this fan. Yes, it's tacky and full of eye sores, but that's exactly how it's presented in the show. Heck, when they built the actual Simpsons home, the colors were so freaking bright, I can see why they got rid of it. The Simpsons are a tacky bunch. I honestly see no difference in how this area affects the park. It's just as cluttered and uneven as the World Expo section for MIB, the Minions area, San Francisco with it's mixed Earthquake/Jaws/FF themeing, and Kids Zone. Plus, when you're there for HHN, there's so much themeing left out during the day that anything normally intrusive just kind of blends together. Yes, I also miss BTTF. It was a classic attraction based on a modern classic film series. However, I think Universal did a great job with their replacement. The queue and briefing rooms had to remain the same, so I know there's a reason that Krustyland has so many rooms to it, but that didn't bother me because, as tacky as you may find it, there's so many fun jokes and characters everywhere you look. There is always something to keep one distracted in line and even during the pre-show. Plus, there's a bunch of BTTF callbacks. The ride wasn't even reprogrammed with new movements. Our vehicle travels the exact same path the DeLorean did. So what I'm saying is, since Universal didn't bulldoze the ride, they needed a new skin for BTTF's bones, and I think they did a good job. The only issue I have is the look of the current rise vehicle. Did we really need the tail fins or whatever they are? It makes it pretty telling that this car used to have a different design, but whatever. I've gotten used to that aspect at this point.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

You make some pretty solid points in defending it. I would still rather see it all replaced, tearing down the land and showbuilding for the attraction in favor of something new and truly spectacular, but I see your point of view.

[@Ender-kk7gg]

When talking about Universal abandoning/neglecting areas of the park, you missed the great opportunity to talk about production alley. Since MGM had a section for dedicated productions Universal probably thought that they had to do it themselves. This aspect of the park didn’t get much use for park guests after the tram tour closed and Nickelodeon Studios was carrying that whole area on its back with its active productions and walking tour until production stopped in 2004 and the studio closing its doors the following year. Blueman Group took its place and Universal put millions into renovating the old nick production building, however the Blueman Group had announced that they would leave the park in early 2020. Despite all of that some movies, commercials and shows have been getting filmed their on occasion in recent years and one of the soundstages was turned into Dave School. In my opinion I think Universal should just completely rebuild that area to make something new or create a better studio facility. I know Nick Studios has its fans though I think Nick will never return to filming in Florida let alone building a new headquarters there.

[@amandamaifeld9289]

One item I think that is also holding Universal back is its own choice to exclude customers from being able to ride the newer rides by size or weight. Same goes their water park slides however, you won’t see that same issue at Disney. There are some customers that can ride only about half of what Universal offers and hardly anything in Harry Potter or newer rides but they don’t have that same experience at Disney (can ride everything). If they wanted to gain over Disney I think one thing they would need to do is make their rides more inclusive so some people aren’t paying for a ticket to the park just to shop and walk around without being able to enjoy items that others can with the “right” body shape.

[@Aslan-rq4ec]

The screens are an issue. For people who get motion sickness from the screens on simulators, there are hardly any rides they can enjoy.

[@jaye4521]

I've never been to the Universal park but wow, I'm genuinely impressed with the theming in some of those older areas like Lost Continent and Toon Lagoon (especially as a fan of those old comic strip characters). It's a shame to hear they've fallen into neglect. Will be a sad day when they eventually get replaced by "Minions Land" or whatever.

[@afluker6757]

Another well done video. I agree with you on most points, except The Simpsons. I love the theming of that entire Springfield area because I love the show. But yes, walking around and just experiencing the areas of Seuss Landing and Toon Lagoon is at times something I enjoy more than rides.

[@bobbycorwin9]

Great video! Universals greatest creative strength, is also its biggest hurdle: working with and incorporating third party IPs. Even creating back of house elements that involve IP can turn into lengthy legal discussions that can lengthen a project, and even delay its construction (speaking from experience). Expect Lost Continent to get replaced in the near future with another IP land (probably Nintendo related), but probably not until Epic Universe is finished.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

Ah, so I keep hearing. As much as I appreciate what Lost Continent was, it might as well be put out of its misery.

[@bobbycorwin9]

@@PoseidonEntertainment Agreed. The prevailing rumor is that its destined to be a Zelda themed land, so maybe good things are on the horizon.

[@DavidLopez-nr7wp]

Cat in the Hat is a thing of nightmares and I love every second of it

[@dananderson8906]

I work in Seuss Landing and Toon Lagoon and have spent a lot of time walking through them and taking everything in and I just wanted to say that your very valid criticism aside, it was wonderful to hear you notice all the small details that were put into those areas. Really enjoyed this video.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

Aye, I hope to raise awareness for the excellent theming of these lands. So many people just pass through without a second thought, and it's unfortunate when I've realized how much effort and love went into these lands.

[@bobbyswanson3498]

i enjoy the simpsons ride itself, but the springfield land is so terrible and messes with the overall theme of the park, which is supposed to be popular cities like new york, london, and los angeles. i think they should definitely rebuild the simpsons land as a different city (tokyo would be perfect imo).

[@jaredhebert942]

Quite an intriguing look into the Universal Parks; not being a theme park buff (but learning a fair bit from watching Yesterworld and especially Defunctland), it's interesting to see the differences of how Universal and the Iger Imperium approach many of the same ideas or how little needs to change at Universal (and the other competition on some level) to really put Disney on the ropes and make these businesses competitive, both for the parks and in general. Curious to see your deeper thoughts on Six Flags (& their ongoing partnership with Warner Bros. as Six Flags in Agawam, Mass is probably the one big "chain" park I've experienced thus far). Merry Christmas & Hope 2022 treats you well!

[@melissabruno7564]

Whenever we go to FL my family makes it a priority to go to Universal Studios Island of Adventure, the other universal park has too many 3D parks that arent too exciting and Disney is a second thought.

[@intotheindievods8821]

For me, I love Toon Lagoon. I love the cartoony nature of it and I really enjoy both of the attractions there. I probably went to Suess Landing and Lost Continent 2 maybe 3 times, done a ride there, liked the atmosphere and left. I don't think I've ever gone to ET or Kidzone

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

Never gone to E.T.? You've definitely missed out.

[@intotheindievods8821]

@@PoseidonEntertainment Yeah. I was just never interested in the movie, so I didn't bother checking out the ride

[@idunois]

We need to shout out the shows as well. Monster makeup show is just cheesy fun and a great throwback to how Universal was. I really hope Poseidon's Fury doesn't go away. That is a great experience. The actor helping lead the way helps sell the adventure. The end scene is dated but it is memorable. For Kong, it's meeting him at the end that sells it. That and the queue is just fun with the old woman and the cave dwellers. MIB is also not well kept up.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I agree with you about the Monster Makeup Show. It's strange to me that it's still running, but it still appears to be popular.

[@alexeidarling]

My main takeaway from this video is that once Epic Universe is done (since that's understandably where the money's going right now), Universal needs to spend some serious time and money giving the rest of the resort the ol' spit and polish to match. I'm ready to see the resort be a huge game changer in Orlando!

[@AlbyMarz]

Thank you for pointing out the importance and effects of pacing! This was definitely a part of what detracts from these experiences and I had not taken it into account.

[@KingKafei]

I'm excited to see where Universal goes, right now they're busy with Epic universe which is looking to be amazing if the rest of the areas are anything like the current USJ Mario area. I think after that they'll hopefully turn their attention towards fixing some of the older areas in the other two parks.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I wouldn't be surprised if we don't see new additions to the other parks before Epic though. I think that Universal understands that if it doesn't want to drain the other parks when the new one opens, they'll have to continue investing in them.

[@jasonweitz]

I really do hope they revitalize these lands because every land should be the same quality as the other lands. I love the the ring of Seuss landing and toon lagoon but I hope they get some love.

[@NickMatzkeMusic]

I agree about some of the neglected areas. I think the fact that Poseidons Fury is getting a nice refurb is a sign they are willing to work on those areas. Would be great if ET went down for a couple month refurb because that’s the one that needs the most help to restore it. I would be perfectly fine with no new rides between now and Epic Universe if they instead refurbed all the areas you mentioned in both parks.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I think I agree as well. It seems that Mummy is going down for a lengthy refurbishment, so perhaps that's a sign of similar moves being made other the next few years.

[@NickMatzkeMusic]

@@PoseidonEntertainment Also I think the food is slowly getting re-worked too. They actually just re-vamped comic strip cafe’s whole menu. They’ve also been killing it with those food trucks and seasonal offerings in Studios. I agree some of the places offer pretty average food but there is still a lot of good ones and it keeps improving. I think they really dropped the ball with Krusty Burger. It was so good in Hollywood but terrible in Orlando. I don’t think they fix it since the simpsons land is only gonna be there for so much longer anyway.

[@jilldaubresse5873]

In the early 90's I discovered Disney and Universal Florida. It was great for a while, but it has become a chore for those of us who enjoy a slower pace. Our next trip will be Sea World and Legoland, skipping the BIG attractions altogether. I totally agree with your opinions, by the way.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I did enjoy SeaWorld up until they reopened. It was just a nice relaxing place to grab a beer and ride a few coasters while exploring the aquariums. Those parks have become so poorly mismanaged though, that the experience and the subsequent clientele have made it unpleasant.

[@jilldaubresse5873]

@@PoseidonEntertainment Awww, that's too bad. We were counting on the smaller parks to be a good substitute to the Big Ones.

[@blakedorn24]

@@jilldaubresse5873 i would definitely recommend giving universal another chance. we found it to be the most laid back and pure fun amusement park we have been to

[@maryzmijski6087]

The one good thing about all the screen rides is that on a rainy day you'll always have someplace to go.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I should have mentioned it here, but one of my biggest issues with Universal is the lack of indoor rides at Islands. A thunderstorm shuts almost everything down there and I don't want to run over to Forbidden Journey or Spider-Man when I know everyone else is going to be there as well.

[@maryzmijski6087]

@@PoseidonEntertainment exactly

[@galaxiegoddess]

I personal love the Simpson Ride, and I feel it works so well because it’s a screen ride based off of an animated show. The story and Queue also make it very immersive

[@galaxiegoddess]

It’s also silly and is half ironic, making fun of rollercoasters and theme parks as well

[@galaxiegoddess]

It is old and outdated, but it’s always one I want to go on.

[@totalshots1]

The disrepair in areas like Dr. Seuss, remind me of Mickey’s ToonTown at Disneyland. That area always has chipping/fading paint, broken effects, and unappealing attractions.

[@crystalfairy912]

I hope the Secret Life of Pets ride comes to Florida, whether it opens with Epic Universe or moves somewhere in Kid Zone.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I'd rather Universal demolish the Shrek theater and find space for it somewhere in Production Central. I think it makes the most thematic sense there, but Kid Zone is at least a viable location.

[@Noclai]

28:21 you make a really good point with Springfield. I always felt like it was a big misuse of that area it would be much better in islands in the comic strip section

[@markguttag4363]

I'm with you on the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit being an unpleasant experience when I rode it back in 2012, the last time I was in Orlando. I'm about 6 feet tall and the bunny hops at the end were particularly unpleasant with the way the seats and restraints fit on me. Although I haven't been to Orlando since 2012, I did visit WDW and Universal Orlando almost annually from 1997 to 2012, including Islands of Adventure's opening year in 1999. To me, an issue with Islands of Adventure has never fully addressed is how dominated the park is with "thrill rides". And I say this as someone who used to visit IoA almost annually in early December, when attendance was low, and rode all or almost all the thrill rides at IOA before noon; so I'm not anti-thrill ride. However, I think something Universal could learn from Disney (and that Disney itself has seemed to forget) is that large capacity but slow moving rides can still be very attractive to people of all ages if they are made immersive (see Pirates of the Caribbean and Haunted Mansion). For example, I think Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey would have been every bit as popular and more accessible to a wider audience had it use a ride vehicle similar to Pirates of the Caribbean or The Great Movie Ride instead of using a robotic arm on the ride vehicle. My own guess is that most guests were attracted to the first Harry Potter ride in the US more by the idea of being able to be immersed in the World of Harry Potter than by the thrill provided by the ride vehicle. One of the things that began to aggravate me a bit by 2012 was the number of times I seemed to have to stash my keys, smartphone and shopping bags in a locker before going on a ride at IoA. Regarding your comments about "screen-based" attractions, I very much agree. I would also add that it continues to amaze me that attraction designers don't appear to understand the importance of "immersing" guests in the world of the attraction. For example, as you indicate, the Spider-Man ride at Universal is great, not just because it employs 3D-screen technology but because of how the guests feel immersed in the world of Spider-Man. I also think that attraction designers since the early rides at Epcot have failed to appreciate the importance of "guest immersion in the world of the ride", even with Animatronics. My favorite example of this was the Great Movie Ride which was considered underwhelming by many guests, which, in some ways it was. However, despite its often lukewarm guest reviews, almost everyone loved the Wizard of Oz Munchkinland section at the end, because I think that was the one part of the ride where the guests were truly "immersed" in a scene from a favorite movie rather just viewing a 3-dimensional representation of a scene or part of a scene off to the ride vehicle. I think if Universal ever did a ride with Pirates of the Caribbean style boat or the Great Movie Ride's ride vehicle that took you into various famous scenes from the Universal Monster movies such as Frankenstein, Dracula, the Wolfman, etc. they could have a very popular attraction on their hands despite how old those movies are. For similar reasons, I always thought that the Back to the Future Ride was a missed opportunity, because they made the DeLorean ride vehicle the major "hook" for the attraction rather than taking people into reproductions of locations from the Back to the Future movies. Some of my own thoughts on Universal Orlando.

[@Clay3613]

They need to bring back Jaws & BTTF, closed too soon and have seen a massive resurgence in popularity! Getting the Ghostbusters license again wouldn't hurt.

[@JayRy]

I hear you discussing pacing as important to you. Does that make you rank ROTR below rides like Pets or Spider-Man Universal?

[@ThexDynastxQueen]

Whoa I didn't know the ET ride was still there! I've been to Universal twice as tho I live in Orlando my family wasn't rich enough to go often even at "discounted" rates. Plus I'm still lowkey mad about Wet n Wild, Volcano Bay is cool to see from the highway...but STILL GIMME BACK MY WATER PARK!! My favorite part was always Seuss Landing as even the trees were warped which came from hurricane damaged trees in the area.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I didn't know that about the trees, but it definitely makes sense. Such strange palms would take a long time to grow I imagine.

[@RichardDicksondlyrch68]

I think any refurb to the remaining Lost Continent area isn't going to come until after Epic is done.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I wouldn't think so either. Especially with Poseidon going through a refurbishment currently, it seems like it's staying around for a while.

[@zacg_]

I agree that there are some serious flaws for Universal. As a specific complaint I certainly agree that screen based attractions is the biggest flaw. As a broader issue, I find that Universal parks lack and cohesive theme or message. Perhaps you could argue that this means they have variety but I also think the parks feel random and incoherent. Individual lands may be excellent but they don't feel like they have any central emotion. Now to be fair, few parks apart from Disney, Busch Gardens/SeaWorld, Europa-Park and Efteling really excel at having a unifying theme. Even the castle parks would could be described as being random in their theming but they still have a cohesiveness due to the overall park layout and the type of inspiring sense of magic that (typically) permeates those parks. On a more specific note, I know I'm weird for saying this but I'm a HUGE fan of the old Dudley Do-Right cartoons and everything else that came out of Rocky and Bullwinkle. But I find Ripsaw Falls to be underwhelming. The drop is great, as is the mountain. And I understand that they were deliberately going for a minimalist look but I find the show scenes to be lackluster. I really think they could have done a lot more with the dark ride sequences.

[@ashleighelizabeth5916]

When I road it in Nov of 2021 it was ROUGH riding. It popped me in the back pretty hard at least twice even though I was trying to plan for it having been already popped in the back at the beginning of the Jurassic Park lift hill earlier in the day. I'll never get on either of those again until I've heard they've been refurbished.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I both agree and disagree with thematic cohesion. I believe that Islands still maintains its theme of literature, even if you have to stretch to fit the Jurassic World theming of the Velocicoaster in. The only real exception would be Kong. While the theme of the Studios is movies, it's largest issue is that it doesn't have a thesis statement to illustrate this, in the way that the Great Movie Ride did for Disney MGM Studios. That being said though, I think that the movie "theme" of the park is better presented than in the new iteration of Disney's Hollywood Studios, as at least Production Central works as a generic theme to illustrate "hey, this is about movies". I will also agree with Ripsaw Falls and Popeye as well. The animation of the figures does seem to be an intentional stylistic choice, but Ripsaw is certainly not the best themed log flume out there. I would definitely put all iterations of Splash Mountain over it, as well as the Timber Mountain Log Ride at Knotts. That being said, I at least appreciate the theming of the ride, even if its execution could have been better.

[@zacg_]

@@PoseidonEntertainment I certainly agree that Disney's Hollywood themed parks (DHS, DCA, WDS) are a total jumble now. I have no idea what those parks are supposed to be about. DCA wasn't great when it opened but it seemed to at least make sense as a park. Disney-MGM Studios was quite a good park (albeit a small one) when they still had the backlot tour and the Great Movie Ride. And in this respect the Universal parks have those parks all beat. But those parks (with the exception of WDS) at least USED to have character and meaning. And as much as Disney is determined to ruin EPCOT, the original EPCOT Center had real meaning and character. So that's what I mean by cohesion. Universal struggles in this regard but that doesn't mean Disney is getting it right. In fact, I'd say Universal has been slowly righting the ship in this regard while Disney wants to destroy the cohesion it became famous for (unless it promotes a popular IP.)

[@jimt9245]

Fair analysis of the overuse of screens at the universal parks. Also it is interesting how Universal has allowed several of their themed lands to die rather than make periodic additions. Disney may have been more neglectful of only Dino Land and Tomorrowland. Unlike Disney, Universal has been quick to dispose of most of their original attractions or perhaps they were of lesser value. Universal does not have a solid core of "classic" fantasyland dark ride attractions.

[@danisports8194]

i absolutey loved rip ride rockit when i rode it as it is an experience less intimidating than the hulk, while still being a fast paced coaster, and also the music is a nice touch, of course it isn't the best coaster, but it is awesome for someone who doesnt want to ride velocicoaster or hulk, and also when i visited as a kid i was 136cm which is 1cm short of riding hulk so that was the main thing, and i still have good memories till this day

[@CDRachelsauthorofMMroman-ee4ci]

Toon Lagoon might actually be my favorite place on earth. it reminds me of every sunday morning pouring over the funnies section of the newspaper. it's exquisitely realized and the fact that i could barely find merch there when i went in feb 2023 was disheartening. when it comes to most of islands: PRO: it's barely been touched since 1999, CON: it's barely been touched since 1999.

[@arimon1474]

I agree with everything except that cat in the hat ride. I don't pass it up because it's for kids. I pass it up because it is horrifying. (which is because of lack of maintenance, so it still fits with how ignored this land of the park is. its still scary tho)

[@genreartwithjb5095]

My fiancé and I went to Disney right before the crazy price hikes in late 2018. We did both Disney and Universal. We did fast pass at both parks and I have to say Inpreferred the Disney experience but some of the price hikes creeping in definitely annoyed me even back then. The thing that held universal back for me despite a wonderful experience at Harry Potter was a lack of traditional thrill rides or mid intensity coasters similar to space mountain or mine train or thunder mountain. I get bad vertigo so a lot of screen based rides are a no go for me which left me woth little to do. I can do traditional coasters just fine but spinning rides that use screen tech to simulate g force are rough and these are majority of rides at Iniversal. I got super sick on Hogwarts but I know I would really enjoy Hagrids. The theming in Universal was awesome 20 years ago and still great in spots but you can tell with the Spider man ride they just haven’t put the imagineering work in to update certain parts of the park in decades.

[@dylan9382]

I love Harry Potter but universal is overly reliant on that IP I really want them to branch out like giving kids zone a pokemon retheme would be great and I really want them to bring back ghostbusters with an E-ticket ride

[@500ccRabbit]

28:00 as a diehard Simpsons fan, I agree that it's disappointing. Moe's is the only faithful recreation and the cafeteria style of krusty burger mixed in with Cletus' chicken shack, Luigi's and the other lesser restaurant feels cheap. So much of Springfield is taken up with cheap games of chance, that could have easily been replaced with a real krusty burger.

[@morningrose1512]

Fun fact from the theme park episodes of "Popular Science For Kids" (a really old show I watched when I was young), the taller palm trees in Seuss Landing were damaged by Hurricane Katrina and then replanted there iirc

[@toddcribbs12]

I used to go to Walt Disney World I don't anymore because of the two Bob's

[@SunderAT]

Leaving for our first Universal trip (after many to Disney) next Tuesday. Appreciate your perspective. I’m looking forward to forming my own opinion of the place. I am expecting to love some of the areas, and be underwhelmed by others. Either way, very thankful we aren’t going to be at Disney next week fighting the Genie+ train wreck.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

Part of the reason I produced this video was because I've had a large handful of people tell me that I've changed their minds about going to Disney and have chosen Universal instead. Not that I don't want people to go, but I would like them to go in with realistic expectations when all I've done is really talk them up in the areas where they're strongest. I would strongly urge you to curb your expectations though. I anticipate it will be quite busy, undoubtedly creating the potential for a negative experience.

[@tufab3494]

Bruh you make Rip Ride Rockit sound way worse than it is lol

[@martysquirll5960]

Ive been looking forward to this one!! I think you hit the nail on the head with all your points. Ill admit even during my trip I kinda breezed past toon lagoon and the comic strip area, I thought the land was cool looking especially having grown up with the newspaper "funnys" I never realized how much there was to explore, same with suess landing. My main reason for bypassing them was the neglect they seemed to have. I wasnt expecting anything there to work properly because the whole place look in disrepair. Diagon alley is indeed the attraction with Gringotts being supplemental. 🎯 If the theming and effort we see in Hagrids, HPTFJ, and Velocicoaster are any indication though, I believe they are learning how to handle their popularity and how to lived up to their newfound momentum. Its growing pains. Hopefully Universal will continue to steal disneys business until they decided to actually compete again. Thanks again for another well made video!

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

Thanks, I appreciate the support!

[@AziaXtremeNFinity]

29:17-29:28 I hope Epic Universe will make more practical effects dark rides with sets and animatronics and in the future I would love to see * Secret Life of Pets at Epic Universe * import the Universal Studios Beijing version of the Jurassic World ride * a theme land based on Laika films (Coraline, ParaNorman, Kubo and the Two Strings and Boxtrolls) * a Nickelodeon land with rides based on Rugrats, Hey Arnold!, SpongeBob SquarePants, Fairly OddParents, Jimmy Neutron, Ren & Stimpy, Rocko's Modern Life, The Wild Thornberrys, Invader Zim, etc. * a South Park land * a real DreamWorks land with Kung Fu Panda, real Shrek, Madagascar, Trolls, Tales of Arcadia * more Nintendo stuff like Legend of Zelda, Pokemon, Animal Crossing, Splatoon, Star Fox, Metroid, Sonic the Hedgehog, Luigi's Mansion what do you think?

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

Interesting ideas. I would like to see Secret Life of Pets at the Studios though, as I think it makes the most thematic sense for the park. In addition, I think the park really needs another great, non-screen-based attraction and it would definitely be a good fit in that regard.

[@johngosbee5574]

Sorry for late comments. I worked with researchers in Air Force on "rejection" of screen-based interface by pilots, who learned and excelled with physical controls and analog dials. The research findings are interesting and maybe useful: 1) Eyes mostly focus on distance to screen surface - not the virtual distance to what's depicted (eye muscles "hate" this) 2) If movement on screen lags behind movement of ride vehicle, most brains DO NOT like it (I have two family members where Simpsons and Forbidden Journey are a no-go for the rest of their life) 3) Subtle, but the analog effects of gravity and friction (loss of momentum) are really hard to get accurate with computers who are digital in nature.

[@peanutbutterjeff5364]

My biggest problem is the desperate need they have to constantly modernize. With Disney, you have the stuff that will never leave. Haunted Mansion, Pirates, and Small World will never leave, but with Universal, there isn’t anything like that. I haven’t been in about 10 years, and I’m not going back soon. My parents aren’t interested because they remember rides like Back to the Future and Jaws that don’t exist anymore and don’t care for the newer IP’s. Me? I don’t care about their newer movies or Harry Potter, so I don’t have a reason either. I just don’t get why they need to be constantly updating.

[@Noclai]

7:57 I think transformers is my favorite screen based ride because of all of the chaos that’s happening and it makes you feel like you’re in the middle of a battle scene from the movie.

[@wemdoe]

My only experience with Universal was visiting Universal Studios Hollywood when I was eight. We’ve always been more of a Disney family. But Super Nintendo World, Harry Potter World; and an itch to see something new, is leading us to plan a quick trip for Hollywood in August. I relate to your thoughts about the inclusion of Simpsons theming. I cringe every time I see images of the Simpsons stuff. It just isn’t nice to look at. The contrast to Disney may be part of the appeal, but it’s a tough sell. Super Mario World, tough, looks amazing. We may die of cuteness overload, and I won’t complain. 😅

[@chasemanhattenn]

The grinch’s mountain should be added to Seuss landing and have year round grinchmas merchandise, but also be built big enough to incorporate the grinch meet-and-greet during the holiday season. Cat in the Hat should be converted to a trackless ride like RARR. Then cosmetically update everything else in that area.

[@Roddan96]

As themed as Nintendo Land is going to be, it's gonna suck that Mario Kart will mostly be a screen based game.

[@NocturneFexy]

Sure, Mario Kart may have a few screens (unless you count AR as a screen too), but the physical set pieces in that ride are absolutely a far cry from the lame, all-screens Web Slingers which seems to be Mario Kart's competitor. Granted, Mario Kart's not perfect, but it could be much worse.

[@ashleighelizabeth5916]

I am both sorry and not sorry that I didn't watch this before my recent trip to Universal. I'm sorry because I really would have paid even more attention in Toon Lagoon than I did and because this gave me a better understanding of what to look for in other aspects of the park as well. I'm not sorry because it might have caused me to miss out on things like a really excellent hamburger at Wimpy's in Toon Lagoon and the ET ride based on your descriptions of them. I think the Simpson's area is truly a love letter to the fans of the golden age of the show. I loved all of the little in jokes and references there in the same way that you enjoyed those aspects of Toon Lagoon and Seuse Land. We stayed in Cabana Bay and I was quite happy with it (aside from the fact that I thought my one breakfast there was very average in quality and blatantly overpriced). It was extremely nice to walk a few feet from our building directly into Volcano Bay. We were there on a cloudy and somewhat cooler day so we didn't have problems with overcrowding but I definitely feel like they were not ambitious enough when designing their wave pool attraction. The one sit down meal I had in the park was at the Irish Restaurant Finnegan's which was simply outstanding and pretty reasonably priced for what I got as well. Otherwise I ate at City Walk after we had come out of the park or before we went into the park in the morning. I didn't really think about it very much when I was in the park but you are very right about the lack of separation between the lands or islands. This is something that the Busch Gardens Parks do exceptionally well btw.

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

To be fair, Wimpy's does have a strangely good burger considering the state of food in Toon Lagoon. I haven't eaten at Finnegans, but it doesn't surprise me to hear it's good. The Studios has really seemed to improve on its food options, leaving the quick-service dining at Islands pretty behind.

[@ashleighelizabeth5916]

@@PoseidonEntertainment we got the Irish Stew with a side of Soda Bread and it was really well made. I couldn't finish everything on my plate but that's true of most restaurant sized portions for me these days.

[@raegangarlitz5313]

I went to Universal Orlando in February, and aside from the Mummy, and Harry Potter world rides, especially Hagrids which the best Rollercoaster I've ever ridden, I was super underwhelmed by the rides there. I agree that some of the theming was pretty good, but the rides left me with a headache or just feeling unsatisfied. Even though the theming is great in some places I think the subject matter is tacky, like Simpsons, comic stripes, Popeyes, it's like half of universal is toon town at disneyland. Which was fine, but getting that new overhaul for a reason

[@PoseidonEntertainment]

I quite like the theming of Toon Lagoon, but until I took the time to really explore it, I did also perceive it as tacky. However, whereas the Simpsons does feel out of place to me, the comics of Toon Lagoon does fit into the literature theme of the park. Admittedly, I'm also a big fan of Disneyland's Toontown. I know it's not in a good state, but it feels well-themed for what it is.

[@bryanwood8334]

You are exactly right. I went to the original Universal Studios a couple weeks ago. I haven't been since the late 90s. It was so bad. To many screen rides. I felt like every ride was a screen ride. Most of them needed new movies or screens. I was very disappointed in it. I felt as if I wasted my money and time. The park was so.much better with the older rides.