Minecraft theme park attractions set to open in the UK and US under Alton Towers and Legoland owner Merlin
Merlin Entertainments, which owns Alton Towers, Peppa Pig World, and Legoland, has acquired the rights to build Minecraft attractions in its UK and US theme parks.
The details:
Merlin has agreed to invest more than $110 million in two Minecraft-themed attractions at Merlin theme parks in the UK and the US, which will open in 2026 and 2027, respectively. “We are everywhere digitally, Merlin is everywhere physically,” Microsoft vice-president of franchise development for gaming, Kayleen Walters, told The Guardian. “It is about how do we expand Minecraft beyond the game. Mojang and Microsoft are experts on Minecraft and the brand, Merlin are the experts on location-based experiences; it is a shared vision.”
The "experiences" will include themed accommodations, food and beverages, rides, and more. After the first two attractions are completed, the companies intend to expand to additional locations around the world as part of their "Adventures Made Real" partnership.
Minecraft, after becoming the best-selling game of all time, has experienced a renaissance in recent years as a new generation has picked up the game and nostalgia has taken hold of its original player base. With the renewed interest, a live-action film starring famous actors such as Jack Black and Jason Momoa is currently in production, and Netflix is developing a new animated series that will follow an original story.
More gaming news:
Sony and FromSoftware owner Kadokawa Corporation are reportedly in talks regarding a potential acquisition, which could result in Sony owning the majority of FromSoft, Acquire, and more.
