Universal Studios Japan is turning up the chaos this summer with the debut of a brand-new Minion attraction! Opening on July 11, 2025, “Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast” invites guests to step into the shoes of a would-be supervillain. This is no ordinary ride—USJ’s first-ever moving walkway attraction blends interactive gameplay with the mischievous charm of the Minions.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the new ride: how it works, where it’s located, what to expect, how to score high points, and how to make the most of your visit. We’ll also highlight exclusive food, merchandise, character greetings, and ticket options to skip the line. This guide will help you get the most out of your visit.
Opening on July 11, 2025: A brand-new shooting attraction arrives in USJ’s expanded Minion Park.
USJ’s First Moving Walkway Ride: Experience a unique ride system where you stand on a moving floor and shoot your way through challenges.
App-Linked Gameplay: Customize your blaster, choose your villain avatar, and track your score via the official USJ app.
All-New Food & Merch: Try outrageous villain-themed snacks and shop for exclusive Minion gear at newly opened stores.
Express Pass Available: Skip the lines with the new Universal Express Pass 4 – Minion & Adventure.
Overview of the New Minion Attraction at USJ
What is “Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast”?
Opening on July 11, 2025, “Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast” is a brand-new attraction in Universal Studios Japan’s expanded Minion Park. This interactive shooting ride uses a moving walkway—a first for USJ—and immerses guests in the mischievous world of the Minions. Instead of riding in vehicles, guests walk (or rather, stand) on a conveyor belt through seven challenge zones, firing at targets with a blaster called the “E-Liminator X”.
Designed for families and Minion fans of all ages, this unique ride blends humor, action, and technology for a thrilling experience.
Official Opening Date & Location
Opening date: July 11, 2025
Location: Former Backdraft site, next to the “Sweet Surrender” shop in Minion Park
Based on Universal Orlando’s “Villain-Con Minion Blast”
Actually, “Villain-Con Minion Blast” originally opened at Universal Studios Florida in 2023.
The new version coming to Universal Studios Japan will be the second of its kind in the world.
What to Expect from the Ride Experience
Source: usj.co.jp
Ride Story: Join the Vicious 6
Join Illumination’s Minions at Villain-Con and encounter Belle Bottom, Jean Clawed and the rest of the Vicious 6 as you compete to become the newest member of their super villain group. Use your E-Liminator X blaster and test your skill in this fun, interactive attraction. It’s all-new fun at Minion Park at Universal Studios Japan.
Source: usj.co.jp
Exciting news: the notorious supervillain group, the Vicious 6, is now recruiting new members! To prove your villainous skills, you’ll need to destroy targets and rack up a high score using the state-of-the-art “E-Liminator X” blaster.
The Vicious 6 are a team of villains featured in the movie Minions: The Rise of Gru, which takes place during Gru’s childhood. This suggests that the attraction’s storyline may also be set in that same era, allowing guests to explore what could be the early days of Gru’s villainy.
How the Attraction Works (Gameplay Mechanics)
Source: usj.co.jp
Ride type: Moving walkway (7-minute walkthrough experience)
Weapon: “E-Liminator X” – You can switch firing modes based on the type of target and customize your projectiles to boost your score.
Goal: Blast away with your blaster to break things, steal items, and rack up points! Aim for the highest score!
Accessibility:
Wheelchair-friendly (except electric wheelchairs)
Stroller-friendly
Children under 122cm must be accompanied by an adult
Connect With the USJ App for Enhanced Features
Source: usj.co.jp
By linking your experience with the official Universal Studios Japan app, you can:
Customize your E-Liminator X blaster
Choose your villain avatar
Track your score in real time
Participate in exclusive digital missions
Just like Super Nintendo World’s stamp rally and coin hunt, Minion Park will now feature area-wide interactivity through your smartphone.
How to Maximize Your Fun – Tips, Tricks & Express Pass Info
Source: usj.co.jp
Scoring Tips for High Points
USJ recommends the following strategies for a higher score:
Switch projectiles depending on the target
Aim carefully for bonus targets hidden in each room
Customize your blaster in the app for power-ups
I plan to share my own tips and impressions after experiencing the attraction myself—stay tuned!
Express Pass Availability
To skip the lines and guarantee entry, you can purchase an Express Pass that includes this ride:
Available pass:
Universal Express Pass 4 – Minion & Adventure
- Universal Express Pass 4 – Minion & Fan
Includes priority access to:
Universal Express Pass 4 – Minion & Adventure (¥10,800-)
Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast
Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
Yoshi’s Adventure
Detective Conan 4D Live Show
Includes Timed Entry Ticket to Super Nintendo World
Universal Express Pass 4 – Minion & Fan (¥6,800-)
Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast
Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
SPYxFAMILY XR Ride
Includes Timed Entry Ticket to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Sales start: June 23, 2025
Where to buy: USJ official website, Lawson Ticket, JTB (select packages), official partner hotels
New Minion-Themed Food, Merch, and Greetings
Must-Try Villain Snacks from “Evil Eats”
Source: prtimes.jp
This new snack stand in Minion Park offers bold, indulgent treats made for villains:
Donut Burger – BBQ Pork & Bacon: Pulled pork and bacon in a sweet donut bun, topped with chocolate [Left]
- Evil Minion Donut – Blueberry: Inspired by the purple minions [Center]
Minion Donut – Banana Cream: A nod to Minions’ favorite fruit [Right]
“Evil Eats” Popcorn Bucket and Drink Bottle
Source: usj.co.jp
Dave’s Villain-Con Popcorn Bucket:
Available at popcorn carts near the entrance of Universal Wonderland and other locations.Bob’s Villain-Con Drink Bottle:
Available at Minion Happy Kitchen and select food stands.
Exclusive Villain Merch at “Evil Stuff”
Source: prtimes.jp
This shop offers goods to unleash your inner villain:
Blaster Toy
Minion Headband & Plush
Themed T-Shirt
Snacks & Souvenirs
Villain-Costume Minion Greetings
Source: prtimes.jp
In the new area, you’ll meet Minions dressed as famous villains or fans attending the “Villain-Con.” Don’t miss the photo ops with these hilarious characters!
Summary: Why This Ride Is a Must for Summer 2025
Only place in Japan with a moving walkway shooting attraction
Family-friendly and interactive experience with app support
Exclusive to USJ’s newly expanded Minion Park
Unique villain-themed food, merchandise, and character greetings
Skippable wait times with Express Pass
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