Missing Wheels and Reported Accident Cause Mine Cart Madness Ride to Shut Down at Epic Universe

in Universal Orlando

Donkey Kong riding in a mine cart

Credit: Universal Studios

Universal Orlando Resort’s Mine Cart Madness, a cornerstone of the new Super Nintendo World expansion at Epic Universe, is facing significant setbacks as the attraction enters its preview phase. Recently, TikTok user @walruscard shared concerning footage, claiming that the ride was down for an entire day following an alleged accident.

Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Toad, Donkey Kong, Diddy Kong, and Yoshi pose happily in a colorful Super Nintendo World setting, reminiscent of the adventurous Tom Sawyer Island Magic Kingdom, with vibrant Nintendo-themed backgrounds and props.
Credit: Universal Orlando

Accident Reported at Universal

According to the TikTok post, the Mine Cart Madness ride was completely out of service on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, with the downtime lasting throughout the day. The user also reported a troubling visual issue, stating: “So many carts missing wheels on Nintendo’s latest ride.” This revelation has sparked speculation about what might have caused the incident and whether the attraction will be ready in time for its highly anticipated grand opening on May 22.

The ride, which is a major feature of Super Nintendo World, is inspired by the Donkey Kong franchise and uses Universal’s “Boom Coaster” technology to simulate the thrilling jumps seen in the video games. However, with the official debut looming, the ride has already seen several operational challenges during the preview period, including unscheduled shutdowns and delays. This has led to growing concerns among guests and fans about the ride’s ability to meet the high expectations for the opening.

@walruscarp

Allegedly an Accident Happened at Mine Cart Madness at Epic Universe causing it to go down all day on Wednesday 5/7/25. Whatever happened there are so many carts missing wheels 🛞 on Nintendo’s latest ride. I’m curious if we will see it open with new cosmetic wheels by May 22. What do you think? #epicuniverse #epicuniverse2025 #epicuniverseorlando #epicuniversethemepark #epicuniversepreview #minecartmadness #donkeykongride

♬ original sound – Kirk • Theme Park Expert

Will This Ride be Ready?

While Universal has not yet responded publicly to the incident on May 7, the closure of Mine Cart Madness raises questions about the ride’s readiness. With the attraction being a key highlight of the Super Nintendo World expansion, many are now wondering if Universal can resolve these issues in time for the grand opening.

As the countdown to May 22 continues, attention is focused on whether Universal will be able to fix the ride’s technical difficulties and whether visitors will see Mine Cart Madness reopen with repaired or new cosmetic wheels, as some fans have speculated.

The grand, multi-story Grand Helios Hotel with ornate domes and a clock on top, surrounded by lush gardens, pathways, and a large fountain pool in the foreground under a clear blue sky. Located within Universal Orlando Resort's Epic Universe. Universal Epic Universe news coming out.
Credit: Universal Grand Helios Hotel

Despite these setbacks, the excitement around Mine Cart Madness remains palpable, with many eager to experience the ride once it’s fully operational. For Universal Orlando Resort, the clock is ticking to ensure the attraction is ready for its public debut, and the outcome will certainly determine if Epic Universe will deliver on its promise to thrill guests with a state-of-the-art Nintendo-inspired experience.

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