Universal Studios Japan’s Donkey Kong expansion has been delayed to late 2024

The Donkey Kong Country expansion for Universal Studios Japan’s Super Nintendo World has been delayed.

The new area was set to open in the Japanese theme park this spring, expanding the size of the existing Super Nintendo World by 70%.

However, a new message posted on the official Universal Studios Japan account on X has confirmed that the area won’t open until later in the year.

“Donkey Kong Country, which was previously scheduled to open in spring 2024, has been changed to late 2024,” the short statement reads.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused to those who have been waiting. We will announce the opening date and other details as soon as they are decided.”

The new Donkey Kong Country area is set to include a new roller coaster based on the games’ mine cart rides.

The coaster’s cars are elevated and placed over a fake track, designed to make it look like the player is jumping over gaps and breaks in the track.

A CGI trailer released in December showcased the Donkey Kong area, appearing to show a new store themed on Funky Kong, and a bongos mini-game. Like the Mario area, it will also feature interactive elements and themed merchandise and food.

Like Nintendo World’s original Super Mario-themed area, which opened in 2021, the Donkey Kong-themed world will utilise wearable ‘Power Up Bands’ combined with an app to create a video game-like experience. While existing bands will work, Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong bands will also be made available.

Earlier this year, Universal confirmed that its upcoming Universal Epic Universe park, which opens in Orlando in summer 2025, will feature a Super Nintendo World area, including the Donkey Kong Country expansion.