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Universal Orlando Resort is making a bold bet on virtual queues, and it could redefine how guests experience its parks—or add a whole new layer of frustration.
For years, theme park fans have debated whether virtual queues are a blessing or a burden. On one hand, they eliminate the need to physically stand in line for hours. On the other, they replace they make being glued to your phone a key part of the theme park experience.
Credit: Universal
Universal’s current virtual queue system, known as Virtual Line, has been around for a while but has never been the primary way to experience a park. That might change soon. With Epic Universe set to open in May, mounting evidence suggests Universal is leaning heavily into digital reservations. Whether this is a game-changing innovation or a logistical nightmare depends on how smoothly the system is implemented.
Virtual Lines and the Future of Epic Universe
Speculation about Epic Universe’s queue system began when Universal released its official park map. Initially, icons next to each land’s name suggested virtual queues might be a major part of the experience. Though these symbols were later removed, the conversation didn’t stop there.
A new trademark filing suggests Universal is doubling down on its Virtual Line system, aiming to make it a core part of the guest experience.
The filing describes a system that allows visitors to reserve attraction spots via smartphone, a method that Universal has previously used for Halloween Horror Nights houses and the Mardi Gras float riding experience. But if Epic Universe adopts this model for its biggest rides, guests could be looking at a fully digital reservation system for headliners like Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, and Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.
Credit: Universal Studios Japan
What remains unclear is whether Universal will require virtual reservations for all major attractions or just a select few. If the latter, the system could be a useful tool for crowd control. If the former, it could mean visitors must navigate a series of timed slots just to enjoy the park’s marquee experiences.
Universal’s History with Virtual Lines
Unlike Disney, which has made virtual queues a staple when opening new attractions, Universal has been more selective. Virtual Line has primarily been used for special events and temporary crowd control measures, rather than as a daily requirement for top attractions. Volcano Bay’s TapuTapu system (which isn’t always in use) is Universal’s most comprehensive use of virtual queues, allowing guests to reserve spots for water slides while exploring the park freely.
Credit: Universal
However, Epic Universe presents an entirely new challenge. With demand expected to be sky-high, Universal is under pressure to find a way to keep crowds moving while ensuring fair access to its most sought-after attractions. A well-executed Virtual Line system could be the answer. A poorly managed one could result in frustration and backlash from visitors who miss out on key experiences.
As the theme park wars between Universal and Disney heat up, the success of Universal’s virtual queue strategy could set a new industry standard—or serve as a cautionary tale. Whether it’s a brilliant innovation or just another stressor for guests remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the way fans experience theme parks is about to change in a big way.
Do you think Universal should use Virtual Lines for Epic Universe?
