Nintendo signs theme park deal with Universal Studios

Nintendo characters and worlds will soon be available to visit at Universal theme parks.

The Mario maker has signed a deal with Universal to feature Mario, Luigi and co. in "immersive experiences" - presumably rides, shows and other attractions.

Imagine a real-world Mario Kart race, a Luigi's Mansion-style haunted house, or Goron-themed Legend of Zelda rollercoaster.

Ink on the deal is still fresh, it seems - neither company has any concepts or firm dates to share today.

But it is another sign of Nintendo making good on its promise to further expand the reach of its valuable character franchises - something company boss Satoru Iwata pledged early last year.

"Nintendo and Universal Parks & Resorts today announced plans to bring the world of Nintendo to life at Universal theme parks - creating spectacular, dedicated experiences based on Nintendo's wildly popular games, characters and worlds," the press release states.

"The agreement brings two icons of entertainment together and represents a significant partnership for Nintendo as it expands the reach and popularity of its characters and intellectual property.

"Now, for the first time, those stories and characters will be brought to life in entirely new ways - only at Universal theme parks."

Universal currently operates theme parks in Los Angeles, Orlando in Florida, Osaka in Japan and Singapore. New parks in Moscow and Beijing are also being built.