Universal Studios Japan Caught a Pokémon Expansion

Finally, we are one step closer to a full-on Pokémon land coming to a theme park in the United States. Universal Studios Japan just made the first move in making our Poké friends into an amusement-park staple. Pokémon International and USJ are expanding their collaboration by creating “an unprecedented, innovative experience” that will first debut at Universal Studios Japan before expanding to other theme parks globally. Currently, USJ offers parades and holiday experiences featuring Pokémon characters, but it has never had a dedicated area or attraction for the beloved IP. “As Pokémon celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, we are thrilled to launch this new project at such a significant milestone,” Pokémon Company president Tsunekazu Ishihara shared in a press release. “Our mission is to enrich both the real and virtual worlds through Pokémon, and with this project, we aim to create theme park entertainment that surprises and delights fans around the globe.”

As for any other details? They’re still very slim, however, USJ promises the experience will be a “hyper-realistic experience that stimulates all five senses.” Like the smell of a Trubbish loitering around kind of five senses? Or more like an Aromatisse sprinkling the scent of perfume around? Fingers crossed it’s the latter.