Universal’s new Epic Universe theme park is truly something special. It’s different from other theme parks in a few ways. Two of the lands, called worlds in this park, have additional ways to interact with the land if you purchase an accessory. In the Super Nintendo World, that accessory is a bracelet. You can “power up” just like Mario and his friends by going around and interacting with different parts of the area. As an additional cost after your ticket, is the Power-Up Band worth it?

Is it Worth it: Using a Power-Up Band at Epic Universe

The interactive touch points around the land don't make the gratifying sound unless you purchase this accessory.

How much are the Super Mario bracelets?

The Super Nintendo World bracelets are around $45. You can use an annual pass discount on them if you have one.

Where can you use them?

The Donkey Kong area is part of the Power-Up Band fun. That means you can actually use them all throughout this portal, not just in the Mario area.

You can only use your Power-Up Band in the land dedicated to Nintendo. There aren’t other touch points around the park so that’s something to consider.

Where can you buy the Nintendo band?

Have you decided you need the Super Nintendo World bracelet? It’s available for purchase at different gift shops in Epic Universe but ask a team member because they will probably be behind the check out counter.

There’s also a kiosk that sells them near the entrance of the Donkey Kong area. This is towards the back of Super Nintendo World and separate from the Mario area.

A kiosk just outside of the park's entrance has also had them. If you're waiting in line to enter, this could be a good way to spend your time. Buying the band, opening it and connecting it to the app before you get in the park is a smart move.

Power-Up Bands are also sold at City Walk at the Super Nintendo World Store.

Does everyone need a Power-Up Band to play? Do we need to buy multiple?

Some games feel like they need more than one player but not everyone in your party will need a Power-Up Band to participate. For example, there’s a key game where you need to hit a bunch of alarm clocks. Tap your Power-Up Band to begin, then everyone in your party can play.

Most of the interactive points and key games are on the top level of the Mario area. If you enter through the main Super Nintendo World portal, you’ll be on that level. There are other places to interact on the lower levels as well.

If you don’t have a Power-Up Band, you can still punch the bricks. It just makes a different, not so satisfying, sound.

How to Use Power-Up Band

You connect your Power-Up Band in the Universal FL app to keep track of your progress, especially with the key challenges. It will show you a map with where things that you can do are.

It doesn’t feel too app heavy though if that makes sense. The fun takes place in the real world, you just check the app for guidance, to see how you’re doing and what you need to do. You can go around and punch bricks on your own as they're clearly marked. It's also easy to find the games and there are plenty of team members around to help.

You can also ask team members for help if something doesn't show up in the app like a key you've earned. There were plenty around to explain how it works and give instructions on how to play with your Super Nintendo World bracelet.

Are there different size Power-Up Bands?

The Power-Up Bands are actually slap bracelets. They fit a wide range of wrist sizes and form right to you. There is also a little strap to tuck it into. It’s tough to tighten it on your own so you may need help from someone else.

What's the Power-Up Band goal?

The main goal is to collect the keys by playing specific games on the upper level of the Super Mario area. Once you get three keys, fairly easy to do, you can explore a special area dedicated just to those playing the games with Power-Up Bands. That's the Bowser Jr. Shadow Showdown. We’ll leave details of that part a surprise but it is really cool.

After you’ve played something once, it levels up and gets harder the next time. The bricks and question mark boxes give you a sticker to collect in the app when you punch them.

There’s also a leaderboard in the land. You can see how you’re doing compared to everyone else and top players.

More Epic Universe Tips

Traveling with little ones? This will help: Your Guide to Visiting Epic Universe with Kids.

The Epic Universe height requirements may prohibit some smaller members of your party from going on certain rides. The Power-Up Band can add a lot to do to your day with kids.

Aside from interactive games like the Power-Up Bands and wands, there is also a great deal of Epic Universe entertainment. If your top priorities are rides, shows and characters, the Power-Up Band may not be worth it if you don't want to dedicate time to playing in the Super Nintendo World.

You're going to need energy to use your Power-Up Band. If you like coffee, see: Where is Starbucks at Epic Universe?

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