The construction of a Nintendo-themed area for Universal Studios Japan and both American locations was announced the following year.

Following several delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the area opened at Universal Studios Japan on March 18, 2021.

[4] Following several years of declining gaming revenue and console market share, Nintendo sought avenues to leverage and develop its intellectual properties, entering into a theme park partnership with Universal Destinations & Experiences.

[14] On January 13, 2020, Universal unveiled the interactive Power-Up Bands and released a music video on YouTube for the upcoming land, using the song "We Are Born to Play" by Galantis & Charli XCX.

However, guests with a Universal Studios Japan annual pass are allowed to visit the area as of February 4, 2021.

[19][20] A month after opening, the entirety of Universal Studios Japan closed from April 25 to June 7 of 2021, due to COVID-19.

The area soft-opened under technical rehearsals for reserved-guests on January 12, 2023, and officially opened as planned on February 17, 2023, about a month and a half before the release of Universal/Illumination's The Super Mario Bros.

[1] To celebrate Super Nintendo World's second anniversary in Japan, a limited-edition gold colored Power-Up Band was made available to purchase on March 18, 2023.

The entrance plaza has lamp posts, a power star in the pavement, and Super Nintendo World signage next to the pipe.

The Power-Up Bands also function as Amiibo for their respective characters within Amiibo-compatible Nintendo Switch video games.

Princess Peach is stationed inside a gazebo-like structure next to her castle, while Mario and Luigi are near the entrance to the Yoshi's Adventure attraction.

[30][31][32] The land was officially revealed on December 5, 2023 with the name of "Donkey Kong Country", as well as new details on the roller coaster "Mine-Cart Madness".

Due to the Lower Lot having severely limited available space, Universal demolished and relocated soundstages to make room for the land's construction.