I actually don’t think so. And for reasons beyond just the obvious “they keep raising prices and people still keep coming anyway” fact.
One thing I’ve noticed moving back to Orlando (and I dont know if this is new because of COVID or just something I never noticed because I didn’t pay as much attention) is that a considerable subset of Orlando locals view being a Disney AP as a status symbol…that’s why the merch sells inexplicably well. Then I have to figure that this extends to out-of-town folks too, who are in the same experience-based economy Floridians are and can leverage Instagram pictures at Disney into a “look how great my life is” badge of honor. This was probably exacerbated in this post-COVID world where international travel is still a little shaky.
Universal, regardless of the quality of product they’re offering, just doesn’t seem to offer the same cache. Even with great new Instagram-friendly offerings Epic is sure to have, the name “Universal” or “Epic Universe” doesn’t have the same value to the types of people that revolve their lifestyles/annual vacations around theme parks.
Just my observations, not necessarily my personal opinion/endorsement.
The fact that this post is probably spot on makes me want to jump out a window.