Nintendo-themed rides and attractions are coming to Universal Studios theme parks

Looking to expand its business and reach, Nintendo has partnered with Universal Parks & Resorts to bring its characters and universes to life at Universal theme parks around the world.

While no specific plans or details have been revealed just yet, the two companies promise "spectacular, dedicated experiences based on Nintendo's wildly popular games, characters, and worlds." Immersive experiences will include major attractions at Universal's theme parks — currently in Orlando, Hollywood, Japan, and Singapore — based on Nintendo's most famous characters and games.  It's not yet known which parks the new Nintendo attractions will be added too.

"Universal theme parks offer incredibly popular, innovative themed family entertainment experiences based on compelling stories and characters – using powerful storytelling and innovative technology. Nintendo has created remarkable and imaginative worlds filled with captivating stories and beloved characters. Now, for the first time, those stories and characters will be brought to life in entirely new ways – only at Universal theme parks," a joint statement reads.

Having lost the rights to host any new Marvel-themed attractions, thanks to Disneys' acquisition a few years back, this is a major boost for Universal Parks and Resorts, which also serves as a home to Harry Potter, Men in Black, Jurassic Park, and other popular franchises. Still, though, Nintendo's cast of lovable, cutesy characters could be exactly what Universal needs to compete against the likes of Mickey and Co.

For Nintendo, this is just the latest initiative to expand its brand. Earlier this year, the company announced a “business alliance” with DeNA that will see the development of new games featuring characters from Nintendo IP for smart devices