Disney’s New Level99 Attraction: Family Fun or Adult Playground?

Get ready, Disney enthusiasts! A significant change is on the horizon for Walt Disney World. The NBA Experience at Disney Springs, once housing the beloved DisneyQuest, will be transformed by Level99, an interactive gaming venue designed for social experiences. However, this new addition has sparked a debate: Is Disney continuing to focus on families or are they moving towards attracting more adult crowds who enjoy nightlife and drinking, a trend that’s become increasingly noticeable at places like EPCOT?

From DisneyQuest to Level99: A Major Shift in Priorities?

For those who recall DisneyQuest, the once bustling indoor interactive theme park, it served as a playground for families – an expansive multi-story arcade filled with creative games and attractions that embodied pure Disney enchantment, tailored specifically for children and families. However, when DisneyQuest shut down in 2017, there was optimism that another family-oriented venue would take its place. Regrettably, what emerged was the NBA Experience, which ultimately failed to thrive before it closed permanently amidst the global health crisis.

With Level99 setting up shop, Disney appears to be intensifying its strategy of integrating external, non-Disney activities into its primary resort. The arrival of Level99 promises an array of attractions such as 60 challenge rooms, arena battles, and an interactive art quest, spread over a vast two-story, 45,000-square-foot space. However, one might question whether this is primarily designed for families or if it’s another venue marketed as “all-ages” but caters more to adults.

What Is Level99? And Who Is It Really For?

Level99 presents itself as a “thrilling social entertainment hub,” designed for teams of 2 to 6 individuals to engage in a blend of physical and mental activities. Essentially, it’s like combining escape rooms with fitness workouts and video games into one exciting experience. Teams collaborate to overcome replayable, adrenaline-pumping challenges that demand teamwork, quick thinking, and dexterity. Sounds entertaining, right? Let’s delve deeper to understand it better.

At Disney Springs, you’ll find not only a restaurant offering full service but also a two-story bar that specializes in craft beers, cocktails, and renowned Detroit-style pizzas. Yes, it includes an emphasis on adult beverages. Although it’s perfectly fine for adults to have a drink, Disney destinations were previously recognized as places where families could spend quality time together, away from the common bar atmosphere.

Previously, Disney shut down its well-known entertainment hub at Disney Springs (formerly Downtown Disney) called Pleasure Island, due to the nightclub environment being incongruous with their family-oriented image. However, in more recent times, Disney seems to be targeting a demographic of Dual Income No Kids adults, as alcohol has started appearing in the Magic Kingdom, which was a “dry” park for many decades.

It appears that with the introduction of Level99, Disney might be furthering the trend at EPCOT, where festivals and events have increasingly leaned towards drinking experiences. Could this venue serve as a family-friendly destination for bonding and playtime, or will it transform into a popular spot among adult groups seeking an engaging challenge before moving on to additional bars?

Family Fun or Adult Playground?

Disney has traditionally aimed at crafting enchanting adventures to strengthen family bonds. However, it appears there’s been a widening gap between this objective and current realities. The Level99 idea, though engaging, seems to be geared more towards competitive individuals rather than families with kids.

The design itself provokes questions – rooms that seem ideal for testing teenagers’ agility and adults’ mental endurance might be appealing, but what about young children? Will families with toddlers feel left out of the enjoyable activities or even uncomfortable in an atmosphere where it appears that the focus is as much on crafting cocktails as it is on challenges?

Moreover, let’s remember the transformation at Disney Springs too. Initially known for family-oriented shopping and dining, it’s now evolving into a bustling nightlife scene. With bars cropping up almost everywhere and an increase in adult-focused activities, one might wonder if Disney Springs still retains its charm as a venue where families can enjoy a day out together.

A Missed Opportunity for Disney Magic

As a supporter, I can’t help but feel a sense of disappointment about the Level99 Disney Springs scenario. What makes it even more disheartening is that it overlooked the chance to revive something distinctly Disney. DisneyQuest, despite its outdated technology, held a certain charm—a fully immersive, interactive playground brimming with Disney storytelling and magic. Instead, Disney has leased prime property to a third-party company without any Disney theme or connection.

Is it truly consistent with Walt Disney’s initial ideals for Level99 to attract a large audience, considering its potential divergence from Disney’s traditional focus on families as their primary audience? It’s disconcerting to observe the company seemingly moving further away from this fundamental demographic that defines Disney’s identity.

As Level99 prepares to debut at Disney Springs, a question arises: Will this new venue cater to the expectations of families visiting Disney World? Or could it be a sign of Disney gradually expanding its appeal to an older, more mature audience?

True Disney enthusiasts merit something beyond merely another lively entertainment spot for adults, equipped with a bar. Instead, they crave the enchantment, creativity, and family-oriented encounters that have cemented Disney as the legendary brand we know today. Here’s to hoping those in charge remember this before it’s too late.

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2025-02-20 19:55