Disney’s Rise of the Resistance Attraction Falls to Universal Studios
When Universal Orlando Resort opened the gates to its long-anticipated third theme park this past May, the Florida theme park scene shifted in a major way. Universal Epic Universe, which welcomed its first public guests on May 22 following previews for passholders and team members, immediately drew attention for its ambitious design and diverse lands: Dark Universe, How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’s Ministry of Magic.
Though Epic Universe has seen its share of operational hurdles, guests have been quick to embrace its new attractions. Universal leaders have suggested visitors should enjoy what’s already there, but speculation has already begun about future expansions. The park has not only attracted record crowds but also achieved industry recognition—an accomplishment that recently had a direct effect on Disney’s own award-winning attractions.
For years, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at Disney’s Hollywood Studios has stood as a benchmark for immersive storytelling. The nearly 20-minute journey places guests in the heart of a Resistance mission, combining four ride systems—trackless vehicles, simulators, a drop shaft, and walk-through elements—with 65 animatronics and advanced projection effects. Featuring characters such as Rey, Kylo Ren, and General Hux, the attraction has been celebrated for blending cinematic spectacle with interactive elements.
Its complexity, however, has meant frequent downtime. Even so, the attraction secured two consecutive wins at the Golden Ticket Awards for Best Dark Ride. In 2025, though, it was another Florida park that claimed the title.
That honor went to Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment at Universal Epic Universe. Guests enter Dr. Victoria Frankenstein’s laboratory, where experiments spiral out of control, unleashing Dracula, The Wolf Man, and a towering Frankenstein’s Monster. With 14 animatronics and cutting-edge KUKA robotic arm technology, the attraction emphasizes fast-paced encounters and practical effects over screens. Visitors have praised the atmospheric sets and close-quarters action, calling it one of the most impressive uses of animatronics in a theme park setting.
The 2025 Golden Ticket Awards highlighted Universal’s achievement: “Universal Orlando Resort’s new Universal Epic Universe park walked away with four wins: Best New Roller Coaster (Stardust Racers), Best New Attraction Installation (Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry), Best New Theme Concept, and Best Dark Ride,” the announcement read. “Those latter two categories centered around the park’s Dark Universe area and its anchor attraction, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment.”
For Disney, the development comes after Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro stated earlier this year that the company wasn’t worried about Universal’s new addition. In fact, on the eve of Epic Universe’s public debut, Walt Disney World opened all six of its parks simultaneously—something that hadn’t happened since 2019. D’Amaro also noted that travelers headed to Orlando for Epic Universe would naturally make time for Magic Kingdom.
Yet the results speak for themselves: Universal’s new ride has already served over a million guests in its first weeks, running with remarkable efficiency. Disney’s Rise of the Resistance continues to draw devoted fans but now finds itself usurped after years at the top.
Ultimately, the two attractions showcase different experiences. Rise of the Resistance is a story-first spectacle, sweeping in scale and cinematic detail. Monsters Unchained thrives on tension and intensity, drawing guests into a monster movie brought to life.
With Epic Universe’s rapid success, Orlando’s theme park rivalry has entered a new chapter. Which of these attractions do you prefer?
