Universal’s Epic Universe Monsters Unchained Tops Disney’s Rise of the Resistance at 2025 Golden Ticket Awards

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At the 2025 Golden Ticket Awards, Universal Studios’ freshly opened park, Epic Universe, garnered multiple awards, with its highly anticipated Monster’s Unchained ride winning Best Dark Ride. This was a notable shift, as Epic Universe surpassed Disney’s Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, which had been the front-runner in this category until then.

Every year, Amusement Today presents the prestigious Golden Ticker Awards to honor outstanding achievements in the global amusement park industry. The awards are based on votes cast by park enthusiasts, professionals, and experts within the field. In 2025, Epic Universe – having opened its doors that May – secured an impressive four Golden Ticket Awards.

Epic Universe Dominates Golden Ticket Awards

In the thrilling realm of Epic Universe’s Dark Universe section, Monsters Unchained was crowned the top Dark Ride at the 2025 Golden Ticket Awards. This captivating attraction seamlessly blends cutting-edge ride technology with an engrossing storyline, transporting guests to the realms of Frankenstein’s monster, Dracula, and more. The design prioritizes immersive storytelling and thematic harmony, offering guests an unforgettable journey that harmoniously merges visual and technological elements. To top it off, the Dark Universe area also claimed the title of Best New Theme Concept this year.

Since its debut, Disney’s Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance has repeatedly claimed this accolade. The attraction garnered acclaim for its compelling narrative, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional design, establishing an impressive industry standard that many consider the gold-standard for dark rides globally.

This changed in 2025 when it was surpassed.

The triumph at Epic Universe suggests that its innovative dark rides have garnered substantial approval from both the public and experts within the entertainment industry.

In addition to the Dark Universe, Epic’s triumphs extended this year to other areas. The Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry attraction was awarded as the Best New Attraction Installation. Moreover, Stardust Racers claimed the title of Best New Roller Coaster.

In another classification, Universal’s Volcano Bay water park received the title of Best Water Park. This honor marked an end to Schlitterbahn’s 26-year long winning streak. The change suggests that Universal is making strides and investing more in themed entertainment sectors, including those outside the realm of conventional theme parks.

The outcomes of the 2025 Golden Ticket Awards highlight a growing emphasis within the amusement park sector on innovative investments in rides, attractions, and thematic experiences. These factors are increasingly crucial for achieving recognition and ensuring guest enjoyment. Epic Universe’s numerous awards imply that its debut has sparked new competition and increased expectations among its peers.

As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but feel excited about the Golden Ticket awards bestowed upon Epic Universe. It’s yet to be seen how this accolade might influence visitor numbers and overall impression over the long haul. However, being recognized among the prominent newcomers in the worldwide theme park scene certainly adds a touch of prestige to our beloved park. I eagerly await to see how Epic Universe will evolve and expand its attractions in the time to come, keeping a keen eye on industry experts who will be tracking its progress closely.

It also means Disney World has some stiffer competition in the Orlando area.

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2025-09-13 14:56