Deleted Universal Studios Video of Eiji Aonuma Sparks Rumours of Legend of Zelda Theme Park [IGN]

As reported by Eurogamer, the official Universal Studios Instagram uploaded a video showcasing employee life at the Orlando park, but the internet was quick to notice none other than Aonuma in the background, standing alongside Nintendo representative director and development legend Shigeru Miyamoto.

Nintendo opened its Super Nintendo World theme park at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2023, and is set to open a Donkey Kong Country area at its location in Osaka, Japan. Nothing official has been said about a Zelda addition, though rumours have been circulating for some time.

The leading theory was that the recently closed Islands of Adventure area in Orlando, which included the Poseidon’s Fury attraction, was set to become a Zelda area due to it requiring minimal retheming to fit the Hyrule atmosphere. Aonuma showing up there, as essentially the lead of all things Zelda, has added much more fuel to that fire.

Nintendo hasn’t said anything official about a potential Zelda theme park, though has made its intentions to expand the franchise clear thanks to the recently announced live action film. It’s perhaps something the company will announce once its Donkey Kong Country park opens in the spring.

In our 9/10 review of the main park, IGN said: “Super Nintendo World brilliantly reinvents and gamifies the theme park experience, while offering an unprecedented level of immersion and — most importantly — fun. It’s a fitting tribute to Super Mario on the series’ 35th anniversary that will fill your heart with joy.”

Ryan Dinsdale is an IGN freelance reporter. He’ll talk about The Witcher all day.