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Ever since 1999, Universal Studios Orlando has been the home of Marvel’s Super Hero Island, an area in the Islands of Adventure park themed after the world of Marvel Comics. Universal and Marvel partnered to feature several Marvel characters at the park following a failed deal with Warner Bros. to include the DC Comics characters.
The area has multiple themed attractions based on franchises like The Amazing Spider-Man, The Incredible Hulk, The Uncanny X-Men, and The Fantastic Four. Multiple costumed heroes also prowl around the area, greeting guests in comic book-accurate costumes straight out of the 1990s.
Why would Universal want to remove Marvel Super Hero Island?
When Disney acquired Marvel in 2009, the future of Marvel at Universal was called into question. Universal’s contract with Marvel was basically forever as long as they paid an annual fee. The one major catch was that no significant change could have been made without Marvel’s (now Disney’s) approval.
As the years have passed, many have questioned how much longer Universal is willing to pay Disney royalties. Disney has recently been adding Marvel characters to its own parks, specifically ones themed after the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Avengers Campus now stands at Disney’s California Adventure in Anaheim, while a new Guardians of the Galaxy attraction is at Epcot in Orlando.
Recent rumors suggest that Universal is seeking to end their 25-year partnership. Reasons given include not wanting to pay Disney and frustration over not being able to change or add anything new, as Disney would automatically turn any proposal down. 
As for what would replace it, many suspect that due to their close relationship with Warner Bros. over the Harry Potter-themed lands at their parks, they will attempt to finally add the DC Universe to Universal after losing out on the rights decided prior to Six Flags.
However, another name suggested is Pokémon due to their relationship with video game giant Nintendo. The Spider-Man attraction, with its 3-D screens and immersive ride vehicles, could make for a decent Pokémon Snap-type experience. But it is too early to tell what they are planning.
What do you think? Should Universal keep their Marvel-themed area and continue to stay under Disney’s thumb? Or should they say goodbye to the once-beloved brand? Let us know your thoughts.
Source: WDWNT
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