Universal & audience demographics

[pumpkinbot343]

This is meant to be for discussing about Universal and its approach to its audience demographics, maybe share news if something interesting pops up.

So I’ve read some criticisms of the parks (mainly Epic Universe) in that it doesn’t really have anything “substantial”* in quality for the “younger crowds” (never mind that it has lands for Nintendo and a Dreamworks property), and that Universal as a whole/in general needs to make “families” a priority as a way to make money and keep up with Disney. So to start it off, is Universal neglecting a demographic and should it put more effort to it?

IMO, now I don’t know what the exact quote was, but I swear I read somewhere from someone at Universal that the Texas park is meant to serve as some sort of “appetizer” for said “younger crowd” so that it could get them ready for the “main” parks (all of the Orlando parks, Hollywood, Japan, etc.)
So I’m pretty sure Universal is mainly a park for “adults/teens”, and that they make a conscious decision to avoid focusing on the family demographic (Nintendo is pretty popular with adults methinks) so that their parks aren’t seen as a bunch of Disney rejects.

*substantial in that it’s a product of quality (like the praised Camp Jurassic) as opposed to just a mediocre play place or attraction.

 

[Eckert]

I think they've gotten better about it over the years while still leaning on their "older crowd/more exciting rides" appeal. Epic Universe is a great example, where a majority of the must see rides (including 3 big coasters) all have a pretty accessible height requirement of 40 inches. Compared to USF/IOA which only have Hippogriff and Trollercoaster for kids under 48.

They are definitely allergic to building major rides with no height requirement though. Even some that don't seem like they need one (Yoshi and Secret Life of Pets).

 

[Mad Dog]

Universal has certainly gotten better at reaching beyond the teen/twentysomethings demographic. The only real gap is with
toddlers and under 7....and I'm not sure Universal even wants that demographic and the pathway clogging strollers that
accompanies it. My feeling is that Universal is content to let Disney dominate that demo, especially since Disney has a stranglehold on
the IP's that young demo loves.

 

[RFRees]

I honestly think it's less about demographics and more about how Universal designs rides. Yoshi only has a height requirement because it has a lap-bar. If Yoshi was at Disney, there'd be no restraint and thus no height requirement.

I can't think of many Universal rides with no restraints (besides maybe Fyre Drill, or Hogwarts Express). There's likely an internal policy at Universal which pushes them away from ride vehicles with no restraints, which then means babies can't ride.