Unplugging Universal's Epic Universe Update: Dark Universe!

Curious about what Universal's Epic Universe has in store for you? Discover the spine-chilling secrets of the newly announced land, Dark Universe. Set to open in 2025, as we bring you an exclusive look at Darkmoor. Join us in episode 25 of Orlando Unplugged as Dustin and Ashley walk you through the foggy cemetery entrance, sinister scientific experiments, and encounters with legendary monsters like Dracula, Frankenstein's monster, and the Wolfman. We'll give you a firsthand glimpse into thrilling attractions such as Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment and Curse of the Werewolf, and even introduce you to unique character meet and greets. Don't miss out on the eerie excitement and intricate details that make this new land a must-visit.

You'll hear why Universal Creative’s dedication to honoring their classic monsters has us buzzing with excitement. We break down the meticulous attention to detail, from the intricate architecture of the manor to the awe-inspiring animatronics. This isn't just another Halloween Horror Nights rehash; it's a fully realized, family-friendly (yet thrilling) PG-13 adventure that promises originality and depth. Get ready for an immersive experience that’s perfect for both monster enthusiasts and those new to the tales of Universal's iconic creatures.

Finally, we explore the immersive dining experiences awaiting you at the Burning Blade Tavern and Das Steakhouse. Imagine savoring a meal in a vampire-lorded environment or interacting with themed characters like the hound hunters. We also take you on a tour of the Universal CityWalk Epic Preview Center, where QR codes and augmented reality bring the park's model to life. From merchandise must-haves to launch timeline predictions, we cover all the elements that make Dark Universe an essential addition to Universal's Epic Universe. Listen in and start planning your visit today!

Need a link:
Website:https://orlandounpluggedpodcast.com
Dark Universe Webpage: https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/epic-universe/worlds/dark-universe?__source=PS_C2N0MVDOZG_1921:NoOfferDEST&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwyo60BhBiEiwAHmVLJTPMiM8FWJzIHErJCh5B0zFTl33YbFBSDTtK8JtDLEG7pXOfDtzPwBoCFvoQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

Transcript

Speaker 1: 0:00

Today's episode contains information about Universal Epic Universe taken directly from Universal destinations and experiences. The opinions of the hosts and guest speakers do not reflect the opinions, ethics or values of NBCUniversal or its affiliates.

Speaker 3: 0:22

Always be iconic yeah but she's the iconic Shane. I like it, I like controversy.

Speaker 2: 0:24

Always be iconic, yeah, but she's the iconic sham. I like it.

Speaker 1: 0:28

I like controversy. Contains information.

Speaker 2: 0:32

I am drinking kombucha.

Speaker 4: 0:35

You're listening to Orlando, unplugged, celebrating life in living color with Dustin and Ashley.

Speaker 3: 0:42

Grab a cocktail or a mocktail and let's get unplugged, orlando Welcome to episode 25 of Orlando Unplugged podcast, where we dive into the most thrilling and magical places on Earth. I'm Dustin.

Speaker 2: 1:29

And I'm Ashley. Today we're bringing you an exclusive update at Universal Epic Universe, the newest park which is set to open in 2025 at Universal Orlando Resort.

Speaker 3: 1:44

Now we have already discussed Celestial Park, how to Train your Dragon, isle of Berk and Super Nintendo World. Now we're really excited to explore one of the five new worlds coming to Epic Universe in 2025, the newly announced land Dark Universe. Now, this is truly a nod to the era and characters that built Universal Pictures into what it is today.

Speaker 2: 2:01

From two thrilling attractions to immersive shopping and dining experiences and more monsters than you can shake a steak at. Dark Universe is where the stories of universal monsters come together and come to life.

Speaker 3: 2:13

We'll take you through an eerie entrance, a foggy cemetery and the haunting village of Darkmoor, where despicable scientific experiments scar the land and the classic creatures lurk in the shadows.

Speaker 2: 2:25

You'll hear about the attractions like Monsters Unchained, the Frankenstein experiment, where Dr Victoria Frankenstein's latest experiment goes spectacularly wrong, and the Curse of the Werewolf a family spinning coaster that'll have you dodging werewolves in the dark.

Speaker 3: 2:39

And if you're like me, you'll love the meet and greets with some of Darkmoor's most infamous inhabitants, including Frankenstein's monster, the Bride of Frankenstein and Igor.

Speaker 2: 2:50

Plus, we'll discuss where to grab a bite, from DOS Steakhouse, a vampire-themed eatery, to the Burning Blade Tavern, where monster hunters share their dark tales.

Speaker 3: 2:58

And don't forget about Darkmoor's monster makeup experience, where you can transform into a monster yourself.

Speaker 2: 3:04

So grab your headphones, turn off the lights and join us as we uncover the secrets of Dark Universe. Stay tuned, let's get started. Guests will enter Dark Universe from Celestial Park through a foreboding portal. Atop the portal, a coil crackles with electricity, symbolizing the eternal struggle between science and death. Those brave enough to venture in will find themselves in a decaying, foggy cemetery on the outskirts of the village of Darkmoor. Upended tube stones and twisted roots greet guests, hinting at the unsettling truth Things don't stay buried here for long. Once through the cemetery, guests will enter the village proper, where sinister scientific experiments have scarred the land and unnatural creatures lurk in the shadows.

Speaker 3: 3:59

This is Darkmoor, a place teeming with monsters, monster makers, monster hunters and resilient villagers who strive to survive. Yes, survive, the monsters. In case that wasn't clear, now, pete Cursillo, senior Creative Director for Dark Universe, said in a posting on Universal's website we created a village and a world beyond it where not only these stories come together, but new stories can emerge as well. And now you're in the same place where all of these stories converge, but in the present day.

Speaker 2: 4:33

Dark Universe boasts two exciting attractions and meet and greets with some of Darkmoor's most infamous residents Since Darkmoor exists in the present day. There's a new Dr Frankenstein in town and it's time to introduce her.

Speaker 3: 4:46

Now Frankenstein's manor looms ominously over the village of Darkmoor. Deep below this decrepit estate lies the land's most thrilling dark ride Monsters Unchained the Frankenstein Experiments.

Speaker 2: 4:59

Dr Victoria Frankenstein, Henry's great-great-great-granddaughter, resides in the manor and invites you to witness her latest experiment. Victoria has already brought her own creature back from the dead and now aims to rehabilitate all the monsters plaguing the village and restore her family's name to glory. Now don't call her creation Frankenstein's monster. She doesn't see him as a monster, and well, it's just impolite. As Victoria's guest, you'll witness her attempt to tame the most dangerous monster of all, Dracula, which backfires spectacularly. Chaos erupts as you're chased deeper into the catacombs by a rogue gallery of universal monsters.

Speaker 3: 5:34

Greg Hall, the Dark Universe creative director, said we see a manacle side of her, even though she's our hero. The monsters are released and it's up to her, frankenstein and Igor to help save the day. While we're stuck in the middle of the chaos, racing through darkness, you'll encounter all the monsters subjected to Victoria's experiments, including the Brides of Dracula and Creature from the Black Lagoon, the Wolfman, the Mummy and Phantom of the Opera. As you witness the results of Victoria's unnatural experiments, you'll have to confront a question who's really the monster? Here? Now, deep in the woods bordering the village of Darkmoor, lies Dark Universe's other attraction, curse of the Werewolf.

Speaker 3: 6:20

This family spinning coaster is set in the colorful encampment of the Guild of Mystics. Malva, the Guild's all-knowing seer and leader, will warn visitors that they bear the mark of the werewolf. While Malva appears in the 1941 film the Wolfman, the Dark Universe version is updated to reflect the fictional culture of the Guild of Mystics, rich with beauty, violence and, of course, werewolves. With Malva's warning in mind, you'll embark on your adventure under the full moon. As you speed through the forest, werewolves will pursue you at every turn. Eventually, you'll come face to face with the beasts spinning. As you dodge gashing teeth and razor-sharp claws in the Darkmoor Armory when you make it back to camp. You'll forever be changed and you'll have to be aware of full moons from now on.

Speaker 2: 7:11

Dark Universe offers plenty of close encounters with iconic universal monsters. In Darkmoor, you can meet characters like Frankenstein's monster, the Bride of Frankenstein, igor and the Invincible man. Additionally, you might run into one of the Hounds which and the Invincible man. Additionally, you might run into one of the Hounds which are monster hunters stationed at the Burning Blade Tavern. Don't worry, you'll hear more about this shortly. Striving to defend the village of Darkmoor, a roaming musician also wanders the village, serenading guests with eerie, timeless tunes. Deep under Darkmoor, swarms of vampires make their homes in the Ancient Catacombs Located atop these catacombs, in Das Steakhouse, a fast, casual restaurant lording over the servants of said vampires. Classic artwork and relics hint at the dark ambience of the vampiric culture. At Das Steakhouse, you can enjoy kebabs, burgers, sandwiches and ribs, along with other offerings. As to what the vampires are dining on, well, you might want to wear a turtleneck to this meal.

Speaker 3: 8:06

Now many years ago, an angry mob of villagers torched the old mill during the infamous Frankenstein incident. Now the mill has become the favorite hangout for Darkmoor's monster hunters. In addition to grabbing some tavern fare, guests can peruse the hunters' trophies and hear tales from some of the village's most esteemed and mysterious residents. But why is it called the Burning Blade Tavern? Well, I am so glad you asked. The mill that stands atop the restaurant erupts into flames every 20 minutes, so if you prefer your bratwurst extra crispy, that won't be an issue.

Speaker 2: 8:41

For fans of Universal Studios' horror makeup show, the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience is a must-visit in Dark Universe for guests five years or older. Here, skilled monster makers have transformed Dr Pretorius' old lab into a workshop where guests can unleash their inner monster.

Speaker 3: 8:58

If you've ever dreamed of becoming a monster, now's your chance. You can get fully transformed into a creature of the night. Or, if you're feeling more adventurous, you can bring the whole family and try some spooky temporary tattoos In Dark Universe. Even our youngest guests can strut around with tattoos like they are five.

Speaker 2: 9:22

When Universal Epic Universe opens its gates in 2025, the beloved classic monsters from your favorite films will finally find their home in the immersive world of Dark Universe. The legacy of Universal Monsters is profound and the creative team has approached this project with deep reverence.

Speaker 3: 9:39

Chris Frisella, assistant director and executive producer of Universal Creative, said it's really about the meticulous care that we've taken in crafting these stories and this environment, honoring the rich history of these films. But our goal isn't to create a static museum. We aim to build a dynamic, living world and unforgettable experience. Far from merely rehashing old tales, dark universe breathes life into the narratives of these classic monsters, where their stories truly unfold. Guests will soon delve into the shadows and witness firsthand what this world is like today.

Speaker 3: 10:19

Now, that was kind of short and simple, but ashley and I truly wanted you guys to feel the story and lore that is going to be Dark Universe. We know that we left out some of the information that we typically have in our epic updates, so we wanted to go ahead and put those in at the end for you, and one of my favorite things about the Epic Universe updates is the epic fast facts. So I'm going to cover this first one because it's kind of my favorite. I'll cover the second one too, because it has my favorite word in there. So the Phantom of the Opera scene in Monsters Unchained, the Frankenstein experiment, features 14 individual flame points that shoot vertical flames over three feet in the air and they dance in synchronicity with organ music and in Curse of the Werewolf as you tear through the woods at 37 miles an hour for over two minutes of sheer terror. Well, terror for you, thrill for others. Uh, racing through the dark, foreboding shed with mysterious figures crawling ever so near, I wonder what that could mean I'm getting chills as we speak.

Speaker 2: 11:21

The monsters of darkmar include original creations from industry leading and award-winning makeup and special effects artists. Now this will help bring your favorite monsters to life with their extraordinary skills.

Speaker 3: 11:31

You want to do the next one?

Speaker 2: 11:32

I really do. Over 6,500 different lighting elements bring to life the rich stories of Darkmoor's history. Many fixtures were custom designed and fabricated to tell Darkmoor's stories of the vampires and scientists that reside there now, as someone that almost went to college for lighting design, that makes me very, very happy.

Speaker 3: 11:51

Um, now, the windmill on top of the burning blade tavern erupts into flames several times an hour, as we discussed earlier, but an interesting thing is it uses two types of fuel in different ratios, allowing easy visibility for guests during both day and nighttime.

Speaker 2: 12:08

Ooh, can I do this one? Can I do this one?

Speaker 3: 12:10

In.

Speaker 2: 12:10

Das Steakhouse. Many paintings depict the world of vampires from their point of view, painting them as heroes in their stories, while displaying some of Darkmoor's history and referencing its architecture.

Speaker 3: 12:22

And one of the most interesting things that I found out about this land so far is that guests will see electricity pulsing from the land's main portal, going all throughout the land and into Frankenstein Manor.

Speaker 2: 12:34

This land is going to be insane.

Speaker 3: 12:36

I'm so excited, hey you know what else.

Speaker 2: 12:37

We missed out on a couple things. What I was talking to them about all the ride safety information.

Speaker 3: 12:41

Ah, yes, that rider requirements.

Speaker 3: 12:44

That is very important now we don't have every bit of the rider requirements right now. We only have the height and height requirements and ride types. So for monsters unchained, the frankenstein experiment the minimum height required to ride is going to be 48 inches tall, and this ride type is a thrill motion simulation. Now, I personally haven't seen it confirmed anywhere. However, in the concept art it does look like it is going to be the. Is it kabuka arm? Kuka kuka arm, which is the same type of ride vehicle that you see in harry potter and the forbidden journey which is inside the castle in islands of adventure. However, this seat looks a lot more like you have more vision to be able to see around to your left and your right and up and down, where in harry potter it's very capsulated because they want you to center in on those movie screens well that, and you're also in harry potter.

Speaker 2: 13:39

You're sitting in a bookcase, so for this one it looks like it's a flying bench. My love a flying bench very much looks like a bookcase but the it has a cover over the top of it where the photos that we're seeing from epic's announcement with with dark universe is that it's a very open topping, because I think you're supposed to to see things more practical?

Speaker 3: 13:59

yeah, it's, it's open speculation, our speculation 110.

Speaker 2: 14:03

Based on the photos that we're seeing, based on the video that universal released. It looks like it is. It is. Things are above your head. They're also in front of you.

Speaker 3: 14:11

There are down below, so you're you're 360 viewing here I've also heard that this ride may feature the most advanced audio animatronics. We have seen to date in a theme park ever.

Speaker 2: 14:22

Yeah, this is exciting, pretty terrifying, I mean. Even based on the photos alone, this looks like it's gonna be terrifying and even just in the photos of the, the building itself before you get to the ride, like in the queue and things that looks even terrifying, so be prepared for me to be suction cup to your hip while we're walking through this sure?

Speaker 3: 14:39

do you want to tell us about curse of the werewolf?

Speaker 2: 14:40

I really do, because that one is the one I'm most excited about Now. Curse of the Werewolf has a minimum height requirement of 40 inches and this one is a ride type, is a thrill and spinning coaster. So this very much. I'm going to throw it back just a tad bit. So if you, if you are a roller coaster enthusiast like such as myself, if you've ever been to Cedar Point up in Ohio, this is like the mouse ride that is up there. So it constantly is spinning, as you are constantly moving around, as what we're seeing on photos, another good, I can't confirm.

Speaker 3: 15:10

I think it is, but I'm not gonna say for sure because I can't confirm. I believe the manufacturer of this ride is the same ones who did um time traveler at silver dollar city in branson, missouri, which, if it is, that is a controlled spin, so it's not going to be like a free spin, but it'll be controlled, which is great because then universal will have the opportunity to really pinpoint us into spots they want us to see animatronics, yes, or scares, or jumps or things like that, um, and I'm really super, super excited for it.

Speaker 2: 15:40

So that's all I saw, you know what this, this did. I did see, though, with this one, with the photos of this, you, you, they show you a picture and I I will be putting them all over our social media, because the art for this is just, I think, out of all the land so far, this is probably the most in detail photos that we have gotten.

Speaker 2: 15:57

So you, it looks like you're going through one of the shed scenes and you see this werewolf up at the top and you know what? The best thing that I got that that somebody made a comment about was oh gosh, I hope this doesn't turn into a yeti moment and I want this to blow yeti out of the water because the way that that werewolf looks is it kind of is giving me like what was it 2014?

Speaker 2: 16:17

13 yeti vibes where he was coming at you. That's how I'm feeling with this, but I mean, it's going to be much more terrifying because it's a werewolf.

Speaker 3: 16:25

So I'm super excited for it. So opinions. Now we get into the part of the show that is my favorite because we get to just freely talk about this. First off, I want to state and say, before we discuss anything is I am, I'm so happy and proud of Universal and Universal Creative for truly giving what gave Universal Studios its claim to fame we are finally giving, and it was so.

Speaker 3: 16:57

Many people were like oh, is this going to be like HHN 24-7? No, in no way, shape or form, is this hhn 24 7. This is a true homage to the villains and the monsters that truly created universal studios, and I am so here and excited for it well for me.

Speaker 2: 17:15

That was my biggest fear. As somebody who this will be my first year going through a haunted house I mean first year. This is my first ever haunted house will be happening this year. This is my second time going to to Halloween Horror Nights, going through it with people that are actually going to force me into two scare zones and haunted houses. You all suck. You know who you are, but it's that was my fear, was okay. Great. Now I have to avoid an entire land. That for me.

Speaker 2: 17:43

Obviously I'm a big ride enthusiast so getting credits and collecting these things and and, and going with my friends and trying new food items is something that I I find genuine joy from, so I'm going. Oh great, now I can't go through this entire land because I mean I will walk through. I used to walk through through the halloween store that would pop up every season and literally poop my pants, because I would be scared out of my mind that something was going to come out of the shadows and eat me yeah, so I'm like oh great, now you're going to force me into to hhn 36365.

Speaker 2: 18:11

That sounds terrifying, but it was very reassuring, after watching the video and doing all this research and listening to all of this, that that's not what this is. This is I'm in the movie with the characters and I get to experience it as though I'm fighting right along with them.

Speaker 3: 18:28

Yeah, one of the things that I love most about this is if you go to Universal's website or you go on YouTube and you look up the official announcement that was announced on the 20th of June.

Speaker 1: 18:39

Yes.

Speaker 3: 18:41

One of the ladies I can't remember. She's a part of Universal Creative. She gave the best quote and it's my favorite and it's we wanted to be able to create a land that is family friendly, yet we still tiptoed the line of PG-13. So I love that they're creating something that is family friendly, but they're also stating we're going to be true to these monsters, we're going to give them the recognition and the honor that they deserve after this legacy that they've created, and it's going to be pg-13 yeah and I love universal for doing that.

Speaker 3: 19:15

I love the fact that they're saying we're taking care of all of our audiences from every angle, because I think that if they would have done this and they would have done it just G it still would have been great, but it wouldn't have given these monsters the honor that they deserve, and I'm so here for it. But let's talk about the land specifically. This manor we have watched it for the last year. Hidden behind scaffolding? Yes, and that scaffolding started to come down. Yes.

Speaker 3: 19:44

And Universal has showed us what's going to happen to it, what's going to be. It is the most detailed and the most beautiful piece of architecture that I have ever seen in a universal theme park. And that's coming from someone who loves jurassic world and thinks that beijing has the most amazing park ever.

Speaker 2: 20:02

This manor by itself is just gorgeous do you know what my favorite part about it is? It is not a cardboard cutout. You know, when you're walking down new york in studios and there's that backdrop there. That's in the back, right back when you walk past jimmy fallon and you walk beside mummy, correct it's that that cardboard cutout of like a walking up staircase. It's nothing, it looks like nothing. It should not be there.

Speaker 3: 20:28

University needs to update it, but like to me Well, the reason it is that is because it's a movie set.

Speaker 2: 20:32

Correct. Great, but I was so afraid that this is what this was going to do. You're going to put a movie set. You're going to put a scary cardboard cutout of a castle. And.

Speaker 3: 20:49

I'm got to be kidding me I think that this land is a true testament to who universal creative is, because, don't get me wrong, I love isle of burke. I love super nintendo world, but these are ips that already existed and they built things based off of one specific movie or one specific thing. Dark universe is completely original. It takes aspects of, of the invisible man, of creature from the black lagoon. I mean even, even but dark more, dark more is something they've created. This is a land created, everything itself is is the manner.

Speaker 2: 21:26

I'm sorry the manor is created based on a, a storyline that they have created from an original story and went hey, she has a grandchild like a great, great granddaughter, oh yeah, and she's twisted and dark too and we're gonna create a grandchild right, but we're.

Speaker 2: 21:43

Her mom technically had one of those, but we're gonna. No science here for this moment, okay, but like you created an entire storyline based on something. Yes, that was already there, there was already preset, done, but like you twisted it around and I love the fact that twice women are represented here we have a women doctor who is terrifying as shit, and then I also get scientists scientists, thank you. And then I also get another one. We get, we get another woman who has decided that like, yeah, no, she's here, malva.

Speaker 2: 22:14

I get two women are represented twice, and not just represented, but we are terrifyingly represented so all those little girls that were like, hey, I think I like something dark and spooky, but all I see is frankenstein and the wolfman and the invisible man, all men. We now get two moments. That little girls get to go. Oh my god, I get to be dark and spooky too, just like dr victoria, just like malva are you kidding me? That is. That, to me, is the coolest part of this entire land you know what I think would be the coolest thing?

Speaker 3: 22:44

I don't know if it'll, I don't, I don't know if it's a thing, but I think it would be the coolest thing ever let's give some more speculation. If kids get to go in here and they ride curse of the werewolf and they walk in and they say I want to be turned into malva. Yeah, universal, I'm here. I'm claiming this right now for you.

Speaker 3: 23:01

You don't even have to pay me royalties but just represent our podcast I mean bride of Frankenstein, I think would be a cool character they get to do. But if children get to go in and say, hey, I want to be Malva or Dr Victoria that would be so cool.

Speaker 2: 23:13

Can you imagine they walk out with like their own little lab coat? That's like ripped to shreds oh, that's adorable I'm so here for it, like I think that would be so what?

Speaker 3: 23:23

is that where? What is the name of that man?

Speaker 2: 23:25

petrarius petrarius dr petrovus, petrovus yes, I, yeah, that's.

Speaker 3: 23:31

I think that's an amazing thing and I I love that we got to see you. I didn't.

Speaker 1: 23:36

I didn't get to you, got to see a corner because you went over to universal studios and you went and the exit store of that's the five and dime.

Speaker 2: 23:42

It's inside five and dime, five and dime, yes and you got to see the classic monster.

Speaker 3: 23:46

So I wonder if maybe that was like a test market for them, if they were trying it out and seeing how it worked.

Speaker 2: 23:50

They were the the first off before we we start into any of this. The, the employees, the team members that are part of that, that were just part during during my get to to walk through and speak to them, were the most friendly people I have ever interacted with and, to clarify, this was at universal studios, florida.

Speaker 3: 24:09

It was in the back of the time 23. No, it was 2024. Yeah, it was early 2024.

Speaker 2: 24:15

So I walked into this knowing that this was kind of being hinted. It wasn't really on social media, wasn't everywhere. I was actually going in to look at um hhn merch that had rumoredly dropped so. So I was like, okay, let me pop into there. And then I walked in and this team member. She was like hey, do you want to see something cool? I was like yeah, and then she takes me into the back of this room and it is very much decorated in Dr Petrovis' lab so it looks like it, it feels like it. They have like spooky lab things that were all over the wall like beakers and stuff like that and I was like, oh, this is kind of cool.

Speaker 2: 24:46

There was bottles of like eyeballs on the wall. It was very eerie. And then she's like, yeah, if you sit down in this chair, we'll literally paint you and decorate you like a monster that's so cool and to me it was neat because as a as a kid, I grew up wanting very much to be.

Speaker 2: 25:02

I grew up as a dis Disney family, so I wanted to become a princess. That's what I wanted. So my brain went oh my God, there's going to be kids that are going to be like yeah, I don't want to be a princess, do not make me into a prince. You know what I want to be? I want to be disgustingly and terrifyingly scary. I want turn me into Dracula. Give me that. Let me be Frankenstein and I'm just like. This is going to be so neat. You are tapping into an entirely new generation of HHN kids that are going to learn to love being scared and seeing how that works. And then they get to turn into it and then they're going to grow up and they're going to go to Halloween Horror Nights and they're going to get the crap scared out of them and they're going to love every inch of it.

Speaker 3: 25:44

And, piggybacking off of that, I think that Dark Universe is going to be fantastic for those families that have the 12, 13 year old that say hey, mom, I want to go to HHN Now. These parents will have an opportunity to take their children into Dark Universe and take them to the land of Darkmoor.

Speaker 3: 26:03

To test the water and see how their children respond to this land, if they find it exciting or if they're scared of it. Yeah, that's going to give parents the ability to say, hey, maybe we're not going to spend the money on tickets to get inside like that super, like the tiktok that came out last year.

Speaker 3: 26:19

They made it in front of the born stunt spectacular theater and the kid looked at his mom and he was like I want to go home. Yep, I think that this will be a great opportunity to test those waters and I think that even if children are like eh, they're still gonna have a great time in dark universe and they don't have to worry about it, jim um this food.

Speaker 2: 26:36

Let's talk about this.

Speaker 3: 26:37

God stop, I want to consume all of it I love that we're getting a full tavern, a full bar I love. I love those types of settings. One of the things that I always hate about theme parks is you walk up to a cart or a little stand and you purchase a beer or a something and then you walk off into the heat and the sun and you have to drink it. When I have a cocktail, I want to enjoy my setting.

Speaker 2: 27:00

I want to relax, I want to chill and this burning blade tavern seems like the place to be excuse me, I cannot wait to have all the bartenders of the pod that are going to come from this tavern it's going to be so much fun it's gonna be great.

Speaker 2: 27:14

I just want to see you know what when, because obviously my entire life, lives, breeze, consumes the food and beverage world. I want to see how they're going to do this. Show me what my, my beer is going to come into. Show me how, how my cocktail, what that's going to come into. Instead of a plastic cup that says universal studios on it, I want to know if it's going to give me that same feel like a mead cup.

Speaker 2: 27:38

Yes, I want that like what is that going to look? Like? What are? Are the bartenders going to look like they're coming out of like a spooky tavern? Is that going to be how this goes? Like I'm excited for that kind of adventure and that kind of vibe to be a thing, because I I want to know if I'm being transported into the same tavern like feel that is inside these movies and to go on more of that to hear about the hound hunters and these people.

Speaker 3: 28:06

So this is an aspect that this is what I'm going to refer to as a spieler, which is more referred to as rides like the Jaws ride, where you had the attendant on the front of the boat. In the world of theme parks most notably being the discontinuation of Poseidon's Fury recently where you have a spieler with you in that entire attraction. We're getting a form of that in these restaurants and taverns. We're getting the hound hunters and they're going to be actual characters of Darkmoor, actual villagers who are there to spread stories and tell you tells of dark mores and these monsters, and I think that is an amazing thing because we are, as a society that is a dying art and universal is here to say hey we're coming in strong yeah and we're bringing it in with dark universe and I think it is going to be a fantastic addition to this land.

Speaker 2: 29:02

and you're not just going to see that over at the burning Blade, you're going to also get to see that at the Steakhouse as well. To clarify.

Speaker 3: 29:09

Did we ever clarify? I just want to ask our listeners this is going to be your call to action this week, people so you can text the show, go into that description box and text the show. So the name of this restaurant is DOS as we're calling it DOS Steakhouse, but it of this restaurant is DOS as we're calling it DOS Steakhouse, but it is spelled D-A-S. So obviously that is DOS. The second word is S-T-E-A-K-H-A-U-S apostrophe. Is the apostrophe a part of the official universal or is that something we've done in the notes?

Speaker 2: 29:42

I think it's just something we've done in the house.

Speaker 3: 29:44

That is S, is it? A k e h a u s do we, do you pronounce that as dos steakhouse or dos steakhouse?

Speaker 2: 29:54

I don't know, but my german ancestors would probably be kicking my butt. But you know what I really did appreciate, though, with this? What is the fact that these servants are Are being lorded over by vampires. They're, so they're going to. What is that phrase?

Speaker 3: 30:09

They're what Lorded. There's a specific phrase for that and I don't remember. That's your other call to action. If you know what that is, text us and tell us what it is. You're a freak.

Speaker 2: 30:19

But I just I love that we're getting more of a storyline in a restaurant Like yes, this is going to be a fast, casual restaurant, so this is, in a sense, a semi sit down, semi quick service. It's a little combination of both.

Speaker 3: 30:32

Yes, Do you know what I can finally say to Universal? I forgive you for taking away Monsters Cafe. I forgive you and I let it go. I hold no grudges because I got a whole land out of it and I'll take it.

Speaker 2: 30:50

Listen, you didn't just get a land, you got an entire.

Speaker 3: 30:54

Have we missed anything about Dark Universe?

Speaker 2: 30:56

I don't think so. We hit up the restaurants, we hit up the.

Speaker 3: 30:59

Shopping. It didn't tell us anything about shopping. I wonder what there's going to be. Even just the merch from the Epic epic preview center is just so good. Oh, oh, whoa. Oh, that was weird. You know, one of the things that I want to get I haven't got it yet, but I really want to get it is I want to go back to the preview center and I want to get the dark universe uh license plate and I want to put it on the front of my car. I've never wanted a front license plate so bad. And let me tell you, if I work for Universal at Epic Universe, I want to be a villager so bad. I think it would be so much fun just to wear whatever. I don't even know what the costumes are, but I want to wear it. I don't care, I'm going to be there First chance I get.

Speaker 2: 31:51

I'm going gonna be like make me some kind of monster, make me it. I'm gonna. I don't even want to be a monster. Make me a villager, just make me a villager and let me walk around and pretend that I work here. I'm dead, you know what I own from the epic merchandise. What the dark universe bucket hat oh, did you get it?

Speaker 3: 31:58

I did. I think I'm gonna go I did friday or saturday this week I'm gonna go back to the epic preview center because I finally got my taxes back um for you random life update. I know we didn't do life updates this episode but, random life update. I got my taxes back so I've got some big car stuff that I gotta do, but I'm gonna get the license plate to go.

Speaker 2: 32:17

I think I want to go back. I really want the epic backpack oh, that is something.

Speaker 3: 32:21

We'll throw that in here and the end of to the to end our episode this week, we'll throw this in here. So the Universal CityWalk Epic Preview Center is officially open now.

Speaker 2: 32:31

Yes, this replaced that store.

Speaker 3: 32:34

if you are a that store that we can never say it's not the tribute store, it's the legacy store.

Speaker 1: 32:38

It was the legacy store, the Universal Legacy.

Speaker 3: 32:40

Store in the first, on what I like to call ground level of the Rising Star Karaoke Cafe, down on the main level.

Speaker 2: 32:51

Do you remember that episode that we talked about that? No, you don't remember that episode? Oh yeah, that was a long time ago. Yeah, and you remember what I kept.

Speaker 3: 32:55

I said what that it was going to reopen, and it did.

Speaker 2: 32:56

They just no, no, but they were going to close it and then turn it into a legacy store and it was going to be reopening with just more merchandise. And then, because we didn't have a clue of what it was, what it was going to be that was a whole tyrant, if you hey. Okay, I don't need to know how you pronounce das state house, but if you remember that episode, I need you to comment and text me on that one edward, we're holding out for you, buddy, that was chaotic um, but yeah.

Speaker 3: 33:20

So in the epic universe preview store there is a full model yeah epic universe ashley, tell them what the what the coolest part about it is the are you talking about the scan?

Speaker 2: 33:30

oh, I love this thing. So there's a qr code that is next to every single land, all throughout this entire model, and you can scan that qr code using your phone. Um, I'm gonna apologize for just a moment.

Speaker 3: 33:40

I'm a boomer, so go ahead when you walk into the store you'll be greeted by I'm gonna call them a hostess, a team member, and they have a qr code on a piece of paper that you can scan to download the epic universe mobile app. That only works inside the epic preview center. Then, when you walk over, you will see a little sign in different areas of the display that show vr yes so now you can continue.

Speaker 2: 34:06

It's nice and simple and easy to do, especially for people like me who obviously are technology inefficient. So you can just scan that QR code and it brings up.

Speaker 3: 34:14

You don't scan the QR code, you just open the app and you point your camera at the little sign.

Speaker 2: 34:19

Yes, but the QR code brings you to the app. So if you don't have the app, it brings you to that.

Speaker 3: 34:23

I just went over that. You do that when you first walk in the store. Now you're at the model. Tell them about the little sign on the model.

Speaker 3: 34:28

No you tell them I don't want to Okay, okay, so when you go over, you scan the QR code and you enter the building. You download the app, then you walk over to the model. At the model, there are various VR signs located throughout the model. You open the mobile app which is going to open a camera on your phone a camera on your phone and you point your phone at the VR sign and the model of the theme park comes to life in virtual or augmented reality.

Speaker 3: 34:55

So you get to see Rainbow Road. You get to see dragons flying over the Isle of Burke, you see creatures flying over Harry Potter and the Ministry of Magic which we will touch base very briefly on before we end today's episode, because it's the last land to still be announced and then you get to see the Helios Grand Resort, located at the back of the park, come to life, with cars pulling in and families getting ready to explore and Dark Universe. You get to see the vampires and creatures walking around, as well as guests all throughout the park. It is super, super cool and it is honestly the focal point of the Epic Preview Center. But, ashley, what is it that they have all around the building on the big walls?

Speaker 2: 35:39

Oh, they have each of the portals that you walk into for each land. So they have my favorite land, that's going to be my favorite land the ministry of magic for harry potter. They have a nintendo world. They also have um dark universe. They have um isle of burke. Why do I want to say islands of burke? Islands of burke, um, and am I missing a land? Celestial, celestial park. I always forget. So you know why I forget celestial park because it's right in the middle I think to me it's not a land it is epic universe.

Speaker 3: 36:13

Like epic universe is celestial park, as each land is to itself correct, but it's great.

Speaker 2: 36:19

And then you get little bits of merch from each land, um. So you get a little bit of harry potter merch, which I did buy. I got a cute little keychain that says ministry of magic on it. Um, there's also a whole bunch of super nintendo merch. That was really super cool to see because I mean, I I am very familiar with hollywood studio or hollywood studios, with hollywood's um nintendo, super nintendo world. So you got to see the same t-shirts that say super nintendo world, hollywood, california, and instead they say Orlando, florida, which I think is pretty cool. That was pretty neat to see. That was like. I think at that point that's when it started to feel real that this is actually coming to us.

Speaker 2: 36:56

Yes, I drive past Epic every day to go to the office, but like it was to see that it felt very real at that moment Like, yes, we are getting another park, this is happening, this is coming to us. Yep, in a year and a half I will get to beat your butt at mario kart I don't think it's a year and a half, I think it's just next year, like a year.

Speaker 3: 37:18

Well, they said 2025, but I think my personal opinion is going to be maybe summer, I don't.

Speaker 2: 37:25

I don't see it going into fall or winter next year I feel like they can't go into fall of next year, because then you're going to compete with hhn oh yeah, that's very true, that's gonna be crazy well, guys, that is what we have for you today.

Speaker 3: 37:37

We are super, super excited. I think we still have two more epic universe updates, if not even more.

Speaker 2: 37:43

We've got harry potter and the ministry of magic. That episode will be solely done by Ashley, and Ashley alone, because I will be too excited to have you. Let you speak. Which clearly they're saving the best for last, well, dark.

Speaker 3: 37:55

Universe and Harry Potter have been the last two because, from what I've seen with Dark Universe, this is one of the craziest and most amazing lands at Epic Universe, so I can only imagine what that means for Harry Potter and the Ministry of Magic, since it's going to be the last official land.

Speaker 2: 38:13

I know, so we have that. It makes me so sad, but I'm so excited to see what creative is going to do with this.

Speaker 3: 38:18

And they have this one on lockdown.

Speaker 2: 38:20

Yes.

Speaker 3: 38:21

I've not heard.

Speaker 3: 38:22

I've not even heard rumors as to what the attraction could be in this land. Now, after that, we will bring you a full and official update on the Helios Grand and we'll touch base again on the other two resorts, terra Luna and Stella Nova. I always struggle saying those and the Helios Grand. Once Helios Grand information officially comes out, which I'm hoping, I'm like, hey, we're getting close. I hate to say it. Well, no, summer just started like two weeks ago, so we're not close to the end of summer. It feels like we are Back in my hometown. Summer is June and July, so we're almost to the end of summer in my brain, but I imagine that we may have those remaining updates in the next couple of months before maybe even HHN.

Speaker 2: 39:05

Who knows, fingers crossed.

Speaker 3: 39:06

This is total speculation here, but I am super, super excited to talk about those things and go over those things.

Speaker 2: 39:14

Hey, speaking of HHN, did you see what got announced today?

Speaker 3: 39:18

I did. Tell me about it. Pretend like I didn't and tell me about it. Was it today? Oh it was today.

Speaker 2: 39:23

It was today, so if you're listening to this, this is we're recording on Thursday.

Speaker 3: 39:29

We're recording on Thursday, June 28th, and.

Speaker 2: 39:32

Ghostbusters.

Speaker 3: 39:33

Friday, June 28th.

Speaker 2: 39:35

Ghostbusters got announced. What is the formal?

Speaker 3: 39:39

It's the ice one.

Speaker 2: 39:42

Frozen Empire, ghostbusters and Frozen Empire.

Speaker 3: 39:44

And I did see it was a simultaneous announcement for not only orlando, but also hollywood as well. So, as of right now, this is the only house that we have that is going to be at both parks, I believe, um oh wait, I'm getting, I'm getting, I'm hold on quiet places at both oh quiet places about okay so there's, two yes um, so this means that for orlando, I don't care about hollywood because I'm not going, so I haven't paid any attention.

Speaker 2: 40:11

We still have two more houses to be announced do you know what I am freaking out about the most? Do you know what this potentially could mean for this year's hhn, what that we could potentially see a stranger things reunion at our hhn? Do you know why? Because in ghostbusters, this frozen empire. Do you know the character that is in this?

Speaker 2: 40:32

who is finn wolfhard, and he is the same kid that plays in stranger things. And he is. I'm drawing a blank on his name, oh, don't kill me, he's mike, mike from stranger things like are you saying like the cast might show up to HHN?

Speaker 3: 40:48

I am, that's exactly what I'm saying. Okay, I was like I don't think we're going to get a Stranger Things house Because they tend to do that.

Speaker 2: 40:52

I mean, I know, when HHN was happening with Stranger Things, millie Bobby Brown was there.

Speaker 3: 40:56

Millie Bobby Brown is here all the time Correct.

Speaker 2: 40:59

But most of the time Millie comes, Finn comes, Noah comes, they they're all like bffs in real life that they're gonna be coming well, I will say I'm gonna sit in the ghostbusters house and wait for finn random, random that'll be the house I do random birdwalk, though, I did see on twitter today that uh, season five of stranger things has started filming again see that so millie bobby brown got married.

Speaker 3: 41:21

She had her honeymoon um I think I think she was here universal recently celebrating her honeymoon, um, so maybe she's back on set and they're filming and who knows, maybe.

Speaker 2: 41:31

I would love that. I'm ready, I'm still.

Speaker 3: 41:33

We have two more houses. I don't think it's going to happen, but I'm still going to cross my fingers for five nights at Freddy. I want it.

Speaker 2: 41:39

And that right there I'm going to say this on the 28th of June, that that will be the house I will not be doing.

Speaker 3: 41:50

My fear of animatronics is real. Thank you good night. Thanks for listening.

Speaker 2: 41:52

Until next time, our friends, stay safe, stay educated and, of course, share a podcast with your friends, your family and your favorite bartenders I want to suck your blood.

Speaker 3: 42:02

Creature of the night oh boy k bye.