With only a few short months till the portals open to Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe, the theme park’s Super Bowl LIX commercial was more than a glimpse into the five themed lands. The timing of the commercial’s airing stole the thunder from another iconic big game tagline.
Certain traditions are usually associated with the big game. The halftime show and even the duration of the National Anthem can get people wagering on more than the outcome of the game. Whether the NFC or the AFC hoists the Lombardi Trophy, one line has a player wishing on a star and heading to a magical experience.
This year, a different out of this world moment looked to displace that fairy dust. Quite curiously, the Epic Universe Super Bowl LIX commercial aired just before the official trophy ceremony. Whether or not that timing was intentional can be debated. But, one showdown did not end in New Orleans. The battle of the Orlando theme park supremacy has just started.
With Epic Universe being Universal Orlando’s fourth gate and major expansion, the anticipation is beyond high. Orlando might be the theme park capital of the world, but this immersive experience has even the roller coaster adverse buying a ticket just to stare at the expansiveness.
Currently, Stella Nova Resort has opened its doors prior to Epic Universe’s May 22 official start date. More and more overhead videos of ride testing fill people’s feeds. Even the new images of the Ministry of Magic get people thirsty for more than just Butterbeer Season.
Opening a whole new theme park is far different than just another new ride, show, or other experience. Given that Orlando has not seen this type of event in a long time, the anticipation and pressure is intense.
Although the success is more than likely, nothing is ever smooth. Even the most ardent fan will have something to say about one-day only tickets or the line waits. Still, those few who brave the throngs of crowds will create FOMO across the globe. Everyone wants to be there first.
Bringing the Epic Universe world to the Super Bowl commercial space was smart for Universal Orlando. Beyond the celebrities, funny moments, and poignant stories, people want to experience life. The idea of leaving the couch behind for another world holds appeal. It is not a magical moment for a day, it is a whoa event that is ingrained in the psyche.
Did Universal Orlando make a strong claim that other worldly events are more thrilling than castles built on an imagined idyllic happily ever after? Just like the halftime show, sometimes a throwdown against a competitor can dance its way across a screen with a visual instead of using words.