It's Aliiiiiiiiiiiive and a Niiiiiine out of Teeeeennnnn!
Monsters Unchained might very well be the best surprise and the best ride at Epic Universe. Yeah, what a way to start a review, huh? Everyone was expecting Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry to be voted the best ride, or Stardust Racers. And don’t get me wrong, both are amazing rides. But even if you go online to forums, Reddit, and specialized websites, you’ll see that the reviews for this Frankenstein ride are overwhelmingly positive.
Monsters Unchained is basically a really, really good version of Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. It uses a ride system similar to the one found in the Islands of Adventure attraction, but the vehicle is more comfortable, it is not as janky, and it focuses more on animatronics than screens. It is a really fun motion simulator, a love letter to classic horror films, and a must-see ride.
What we like about Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment
You know that you are in for a good ride the moment you enter the queue. You actually enter through Frankenstein’s mansion, and the setting is top notch. Dark hallways, gardens that look like something out of Tower of Terror, lightning bolts, nods to other Universal movies like The Invisible Man. Everything is there to make you feel like you are in a Universal horror movie. Mind you, nothing is particularly scary. This is not Halloween Horror Nights, after all, but the vibes are spot on.
There is also a fun pre-show that really gets you into the storyline, and it is a nice preview that you are about to see some of the most advanced animatronics in the world. The story is that Victoria Frankenstein wants to steal the raw power of creatures like Dracula, the Wolf Man, the Creature from the Black Lagoon, and others. She stands near a really impressive Frankenstein who moves around like he is real. Maybe he is. Universal might have just created a monster and has not told us anything about it. That is cool with me.
Of course, nothing goes according to plan, and that is where the ride starts. Your vehicle is basically a mechanical arm that moves you around, but the movement is less janky than the one in Forbidden Journey. You also come across some of the best animatronics you will ever see. They look real, even when they are flying or about to attack your vehicle. The Wolfman really looks like he is made of fur, and the Creature from the Black Lagoon looks like he is covered in scales. It is impressive, and I love that this ride focuses more on animatronics and practical effects than on screens.
There are screens, but I am so, so happy to say that they all look incredible. One of my problems with Forbidden Journey and rides like Escape from Gringotts is that the screens just do not look good. The visuals are blurry and low definition. Here, everything looks top notch, from Frankenstein fighting the Wolf Man to the brides of Dracula flying around. It is awesome.
What we don’t like about Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment
There is not much to hate about this one. Some guests reported feeling motion sickness after riding it, but they also agree that it is not as janky as Forbidden Journey. If you are prone to motion sickness, it is probably best to skip this one or take something for motion sickness before boarding.
Conclusion
Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment is one of the best rides at Epic Universe, period. It features some of the most advanced animatronics you will ever see in a theme park. It is comfortable and a great mix of storytelling with a motion simulator. Classic horror fans, this one is for you.
Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment FAQ
Where is Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment located?
Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment is located in Dark Universe at Epic Universe. If you want to know how to fight Dracula, the Mummy, and all the other monsters, click that Request a Quote button! Oh, and we can help you set up your next vacation too.
What is the ride height requirement for Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment?
You must be at least 48 inches tall to ride Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment.
Is Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment scary for children?
It can be scary, yes. It is not as scary as the houses at Halloween Horror Nights, but this is a dark, loud ride with several monster animatronics.
Do we recommend Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment?
Yes! This is a great motion simulator that fans of horror movies and fun will love.
