Even as it prepares to open its most ambitious park to date in Florida, Universal is continuing to expand overseas—this time without much fanfare.
While Epic Universe is nearing completion in Orlando and new developments are underway in the U.K. and Texas, Universal has also been working behind the scenes on a smaller-scale project in Japan. This week, the company officially confirmed that a new interactive attraction is on its way to Universal Studios Japan.
The addition builds on the park’s existing success with Illumination’s Despicable Me franchise, which has long been a guest favorite in Osaka.
Villain-Con Minion Blast Heads to Universal Studios (Again)
Universal Studios Japan announced it will soon open Villain-Con Minion Blast, an interactive shooting-style ride that originally debuted at Universal Studios Florida in 2023. It will take over the former San Francisco Candies location and become part of the park’s Minions Park.
“Join Illumination’s Minions at Villain-Con and encounter Belle Bottom, Jean Clawed and the rest of the Vicious 6 as you compete to become the newest member of their super villain group,” Universal Studios Japan stated. “Use your E-Liminator X blaster and test your skill in this fun, interactive attraction. It’s all-new fun at Minion Park at Universal Studios Japan.”
The Japanese version is expected to closely mirror the Florida original, which received mixed reviews when it launched. Although some guests found it enjoyable, others criticized the attraction for relying heavily on screen-based gameplay and lacking the energy of its predecessor, Shrek 4-D.
Despite this, its high capacity makes it well-suited for Universal Studios Japan, where crowd levels often lead to long lines and sold-out timed entry passes. The addition of another people-moving ride could help alleviate some of that congestion.
Park Growth Extends Beyond the Minions
Villain-Con Minion Blast is one of several recent developments at Universal Studios Japan. In 2024, the park opened Donkey Kong Country, an expansion of the Nintendo-themed SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. Its marquee ride, Mine Cart Madness, simulates track-jumping and has drawn positive early reactions.
The park is also hosting its Wicked Celebration, tied to the delayed Japanese release of Wicked (2024). The event includes appearances by Glinda and Elphaba, themed snacks, a costume exhibit, and limited-edition merchandise, all of which will remain available through the end of the year.
Universal has not said whether additional Illumination or Nintendo expansions are on the way, but the company’s broader strategy suggests more development is likely. In addition to Epic Universe’s imminent opening in Orlando, Universal has announced a family-oriented park in Frisco, Texas, a year-round horror attraction in Las Vegas, and long-term plans for a resort in the United Kingdom.
For now, though, the next step is in Osaka—where the Minions are about to gain a new venue for mayhem.
What’s your favorite Despicable Me ride?
