Dark Universe will give horror fans the intense experience they crave
While the fog fills the air for Halloween Horror Nights, Universal Monsters will roam Dark Universe’s Darkmoor inside Epic Universe and turn every day into the spooky season. For the theme park visitor who longs to scream, this experience is one that has been haunting their dreams.
As the second to last realm to be revealed in the Epic Universe line-up, the Dark Universe might be the most anticipated portal. Although Universal is set to open a horror experience in Las Vegas in the future, the Florida theme parks do not continuously offer a darker horror-inspired space. The Horror Make-up Show has elements of fright, but it never crosses too far over into the dark side.
When guests step into Darkmoor, the space builds as the unknown tempts people down the twisted path. For a family-friendly, less intense offering, the Curse of the Werewolf appeals to a wider audience.
The twists and turns as riders navigate the ride will have their heads spinning. Maybe all the confusion is just what the Werewolf desires. A little disorientation can keep people wandering in that dark forest.
The most anticipated ride will be the Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment. This idea is a big departure for the Universal creative team. While intense thrills keep riders coming back to Velocicoaster and the intrigue of the Mummy never wanes, this ride is not for the squeamish.
Based on the limited description, it sounds like there are similar aspects from the Monsters Collide Halloween Horror Nights experience. Characters, like The Wolf Man, The Mummy, The Creature from the Black Lagoon, the Brides of Dracula, are waiting to pounce at every turn. Whether or not riders emerge from the catacombs unscathed remains to be seen.
Beyond the rides, the Dark Universe area will offer a Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience and Character Meet and Greets. These experiences will be geared toward an all-ages crowd and will be far from super scary.
Additionally, the space offers several restaurants and snack options. All that running from the monsters can leave guests a little parched.
Dark Universe, part of Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe, is set to open in Summer 2025. The exact opening date has yet to be revealed. More information can be found online and Universal City Walk has a display of the theme park.