It’s time for all Harry Potter fans to get their wands, robes, and stockpile of chocolate frogs ready! Four years ago, Universal unveiled The Wizarding World of Harry Potter with the village of Hogsmeade, but now the creators are promising to double down on the magic with the opening of Diagon Alley. This time the developers from Universal Creative didn’t just try their best. They literally outdid themselves with new technology and completely unique attractions. Believe us, here, even Muggles will feel that magic exists!
The Attraction “Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts”
The centerpiece of the new zone will be the attraction “Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts”. Technologically it is a real breakthrough: visitors will get into a multi-dimensional, multi-sensory world created with the help of ultra-modern technologies. Imagine ultra-high-definition 4K digital 3D projections, incredible special effects, and a full 360-degree immersion into the world of magic. Your favorite characters will literally come to life before your eyes — from dragons to goblins from Gringotts Bank.
What makes the attraction special?
- 4K projection system with seamless graphics;
- Freedom of movement and 360-degree views;
- Realistic physical scenery that perfectly complements the digital animation;
- Impressive live special effects and total immersion in the atmosphere of your favorite story.
Universal’s Creative Producer, Eric Hunt, reveals the secrets: “Thanks to the latest projection systems, we’ve been able to create a unified world where the physical sets are perfectly intertwined with the digital images. Everywhere you look, there will be something interesting and magical.”
In addition, the attraction itself offers complete freedom of movement, making the experience even more vivid.
A Journey from Dream to Reality
But that’s not all. The real Hogwarts Express is also waiting to take guests on an exciting journey between London and Hogsmeade. It’s not just transportation but an interactive journey with different scenarios in both directions. With the help of projections and live special effects, you’ll meet Hagrid on his motorcycle, see Buckbeak the hippogriff, and, of course, get in the company of the famous Weasley twins. Amazingly, the details of the train’s interior are so accurate that the seat fabric is made by the same company that supplied the materials in the UK in the 50s!
Universal even had to create unique technology to display images outside the train windows so that guests wouldn’t feel for a second that they were in Florida. Instead of palm trees and sunshine, stunning British and Scottish landscapes familiar from the Harry Potter movies await.
And for those who do not want to stand in lines, Universal has prepared a special surprise. Buy a magic wand in Ollivander’s store and go for a walk through the alleys of Diagon Alley and the streets of Hogsmeade. There are plenty of interactive areas where you can practice spells. Just wave your wand in front of a shop window, cast a spell, and magic will come to life right before your eyes. The map will help you find all the magic points and enjoy magic to the fullest.
