Super Nintendo World is coming along nicely, but its opening is obviously delayed

Until it’s safe

Speaking to investors, Nintendo gave us a bit more info on the recent Universal Studios of Japan’s Super Nintendo World expansion, but as expected, it’s news of a delay.

Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa explained that it was originally slated to open before the 2020 Tokyo Olympics (next July), but the schedule was altered due to the current pandemic. This matches up with a statement made by Universal Studios itself, who delayed the opening of the park just over a week ago.

Representative director and Nintendo legend Shigeru Miyamoto (who served as a creative consultant for the park) adds that he “expects Universal Studios Japan will announce a new opening date after taking measures to ensure safe operation.” After Japan gets a handle on things, the US and Singapore expansions are still on the table at this time.

The thing is, a lot of the framework is actually done already, and Japanese citizens have been walking or driving by the construction shot to take candid photos and videos. As you can see from Twitter user Ayato below, the park is making huge strides this year in terms of its construction.

A miniature Mario zone is seemingly finished, complete with spinning coins, pipes and a Thwomp that has eyes that light up at night. You can also see a giant replica of Bowser’s Castle in the shot: all of those elements are part of the above concept art. Just teleport me there (when it’s safe)!

Q&A Summary [Nintendo]

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— AYATO (@ayato0222usj) July 4, 2020