New And Improved King Kong Ride Set To Launch At Universal Orlando


In a few days, King Kong is set to bring terror theme park-goers at Universal Orlando with the unveiling of Skull Island: Reign of Kong. The all-new take on the popular attraction will give guests the thrill of being inside the “jungles of the mysterious Skull Island.”

A report detailed that the upcoming King Kong ride will “see a mix of massive new sets, mixed with the 3D.” There is also an indication that a massive animatronic will entertain guests as well.

Additional information revealed that the ride will take guests back to the 1930s on an expedition to Skull Island. There will be encounters with prehistoric animals, including dinosaurs and, of course, the main attraction, King Kong.

The gigantic animal is a “member of the thought-to-be-extinct species Megaprimatus Kong.” The animal expresses emotions similar to humans, but he is thought of to be a monster as he is so large, at least three stories tall, with a head as huge as a car. Kong has broad shoulders, pegged at 18 feet wide, and sports distinctive battle scars.

Beside the prehistoric creatures, visitors of the attraction will also have to deal with hostile natives as they course through King Kong’s territory.

The theme park already unveiled its first official glimpse of the all-new ride, and things are looking very promising.

In fact, in the latest episode of the video series “The Making of Skull Island Reign of Kong,” its creative director, Mike West, gave a peek at the animatronic that is the one true King of the island.

The creative director warned, “This isn’t a movie – it’s the real deal.”

He also cautioned people about what to expect from the all-new King Kong attraction.

“Close enough that you’ll feel his breath sweep across your skin and his thundering roar reverberate through every bone in your body.”

Interestingly, the promotional video of the new Universal Orlando ride cast doubts on whether King Kong is the protagonist or not.

“On the brink of destruction, Kong arrives. But is he here to save you?” the video narrated. “This is his world, and you are at his mercy.”

There is no word yet on the exact opening date. However, Universal Florida has already sent out “Save the Date” invitations to members of the media. The press event will happen on June 22 to June 24.

There is also an ongoing theory that the opening date would be released in the coming days as the theme park could no longer contain King Kong much longer.

The original ride was created by Bob Gurr, but it was engulfed in fire at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2008. Another ride showcasing the humongous ape, Kongfrontation, was featured at Universal Studios Florida, but that had been closed in 2002. It was later replaced by the Revenge of the Mummy rollercoaster.

Aside from Skull Island: Reign of Kong, Universal Florida will reopen Islands of Adventure’s Incredible Hulk rollercoaster. The ride had to be closed for some refurbishing last September, but it is all set to come back this summer.

According to the theme park, the track and fast-launch start will remain the same, but the ride will be much smoother. The storyline will be improved as well.

Guests can also expect an additional choice for their accommodation as Universal Orlando opens Sapphire Falls. The hotel will have 1,000 rooms, all with a Caribbean theme. Like the King Kong attraction, there is no definite date for the opening yet.

[Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images]

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