Universal has kept quiet about what could be next for Dark Universe at Epic Universe, but that hasn’t stopped fans from searching for clues. Every permit filing, construction update, and newly uncovered document has fueled fresh conversations about where the land could expand next. Now, a recently granted patent has added another intriguing piece to the puzzle, and it’s already sparked plenty of discussion about what Universal may have planned.
While the company hasn’t confirmed any future attractions for the land, the combination of this patent and previously discovered construction filings has many longtime Universal fans wondering whether one of the classic Universal Monsters could finally receive a major attraction of its own.
A Patent Introduces a Different Approach to Water Rides
The newly granted patent outlines a water ride system that operates differently from many traditional attractions. Instead of relying on tracks, chains, or other mechanical components positioned beneath the water, the design uses fluid propulsion to guide ride vehicles through the course.
According to the patent, eliminating many of those underwater components could reduce pinch points and other safety concerns that sometimes arise in loading and unloading areas.
The concept uses a visible water channel similar to the one guests experience on Fyre Drill at Epic Universe. Underneath that main trough, however, sits a second concealed channel. An internal mechanism reaches into that lower section and uses adjustable surfaces to steer and regulate the boat’s movement, functioning almost like an automated rudder.
The patent also notes that the same technology could potentially control wheeled ride vehicles on dry land, suggesting Universal may be thinking beyond traditional water attractions as it develops future ride systems.
Another feature described in the filing allows gates within the trough to slow or completely stop the water flow, giving operators much more precise control over vehicle movement throughout the attraction.
Of course, patents don’t always become reality. Companies routinely protect new ideas that never move beyond the development stage. Even so, the filing shows that Universal continues to invest in new ride technology as expansion work around Dark Universe continues to attract attention.
Fans Immediately Thought of One Universal Monster
It didn’t take long for many fans to arrive at the same conclusion. As discussion of the patent spread online, one character quickly became the center of attention: Creature from the Black Lagoon.
The idea makes sense to many longtime Universal fans. A water-based attraction seems like a natural fit for the Gill-man, and the character has frequently appeared on wish lists whenever fans discuss future additions to Dark Universe.
The land already features Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment alongside Curse of the Werewolf, giving guests two very different experiences centered around Universal’s classic monsters. Adding a swamp-inspired attraction focused on Creature from the Black Lagoon would introduce another iconic character while expanding the land’s overall lineup.
Whether that actually happens remains unknown, but it’s easy to understand why this particular theory has gained momentum.
Construction Filings Continue to Fuel Speculation
The patent isn’t the only reason fans are paying close attention.
Construction permits associated with Project 680 have already indicated that Universal is preparing something significant for the expansion area. Current filings describe a planned building measuring roughly 93,308 square feet, with approximately 71,500 square feet allocated as usable attraction space.
To put that into perspective, the building would be comparable in scale to the show building used for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Additional permit details reference a multi-story structure that includes a designated ride maintenance bay. While Universal still hasn’t officially announced what the building will contain, those documents strongly suggest the project is intended for a substantial attraction rather than additional shopping or dining space.
A Water Ride Isn’t the Only Possibility
Even if the patent never becomes part of Dark Universe, that doesn’t necessarily eliminate Creature from the Black Lagoon from future plans.
Universal could take a completely different direction by building a traditional dark ride centered on the famous monster. Trackless vehicles or an omnimover-style system could carry guests through eerie swamp scenes filled with detailed sets, animatronics, atmospheric lighting, fog, and other immersive effects inspired by the classic film.
That approach would allow Universal to focus heavily on storytelling while avoiding the operational challenges that often come with large-scale water attractions. It would also give the Gill-man the starring role many fans have hoped to see for years.
Waiting for Universal’s Next Move
For now, every connection between the patent and Dark Universe remains speculative. Universal has not announced a new attraction, nor has the company linked this technology to Project 680 or the expansion site.
Still, the timing of the patent, the size of the planned building, and the ongoing construction activity have created plenty for fans to discuss. Whether Universal ultimately builds a water ride, a dark ride, or something completely unexpected, interest in Dark Universe’s future continues to grow as guests wait for the company’s next official announcement.
