Overview

• Universal’s 2025 event began in Orlando on August 29 and runs select nights through November 2, with Hollywood set to launch on September 4.
• Early reviews consistently single out original concepts such as El Artista, Gálkn and Dolls for ambitious design, clear storytelling and striking effects.
• Five Nights at Freddy’s emerged as the most in-demand house on night one, featuring animatronic-style characters created with Jim Henson’s Creature Shop.
• Terrifier is noted for an intense, full-sensory approach, including strong scent cues and optional wet or dry routing, with ponchos sold in the queue.
• IP reactions are uneven: Jason Universe is widely criticized as repetitive and one-note, while Fallout earns praise for detailed sets but is described as lighter on scares and potentially confusing to newcomers.