Disney's SXSW Panel Unveils Future World-Building Plans

The Future of World-building at Disney Panel at SXSW was brimming with thrilling announcements about the future of Disney Parks. Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D'Amaro and Disney Entertainment Co-Chairman Alan Bergman led the discussion, highlighting the benefits of collaboration across their teams to create immersive new experiences. Here’s a detailed look at what was shared:

The Mandalorian and Grogu Will Join Smuggler's Run in a New Mission at the Launch of The Mandalorian & Grogu Film

Disney confirmed that The Mandalorian and Grogu will feature in a new mission on Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run, set to debut alongside the release of The Mandalorian & Grogu movie on May 22, 2026, at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland. Jon Favreau, along with Imagineers Leslie Evans and Asa Kalama, provided insights into this new storyline, showcasing concept art that includes scenes on Tatooine with a Jawa's Sandcrawler, the Millennium Falcon and Mando's Razor Crest flying toward Cloud City on Bespin, and a visit to the wreckage of the second Death Star above Endor.

The Mandalorian and Grogu Mission Concept Art for Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run

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Favreau emphasized that the new mission won't retell the movie's story but rather immerse guests in an experience that feels like it's happening just off-camera. The Imagineers captured scenes directly from the set to ensure an authentic experience. Additionally, the beloved BDX droids will expand their presence to Walt Disney World, Tokyo Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris, including a new Anzellan variant named Otto who will occasionally appear on a BDX in need of a tune-up.

Image Credit: Disney

The BDX droids will also feature in The Mandalorian & Grogu, adding to the excitement surrounding these charming robotic companions.

Here's a Sneak Peak at the Load Area and Lift Off of the New Monsters, Inc. Attraction at Disney World

A new Monsters, Inc. themed land is coming to Disney World's Hollywood Studios, featuring a pioneering roller coaster—the first suspended coaster and the first with a vertical lift in Disney Parks. The attraction aims to transport guests through the iconic door vault of Monsters, Inc. Disney provided a sneak peek of the load area, setting the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating experience.

Pixar and Imagineering Reveal a New Type of Ride Vehicle Had to Be Made for Magic Kingdom's Upcoming Cars Attraction

Pixar Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter and Imagineer Michael Hundgen shared insights into the upcoming Cars attraction at Magic Kingdom. Hundgen highlighted the focus on creating an emotional experience, necessitating the invention of a new type of ride vehicle. This vehicle, designed to convey feelings during the ride, was developed after research trips to the Arizona desert and collaboration with a motocross company to build a custom dirt track. The vehicles will feature sensors and will be personalized with names, numbers, and unique personalities, enhancing the immersive experience.

Image Credit: Disney

Robert Downey Jr. Stops by Disney's SXSW Panel to Help Share More About the New Avengers Campus Attractions

Image Credit: Disney

Disneyland's Avengers Campus is set to introduce two new attractions, including Avengers Infinity Defense, where guests will join forces with the Avengers to combat King Thanos across multiple worlds. The highlight of the panel was Robert Downey Jr.'s appearance to discuss Stark Flight Lab, where guests will enter Tony Stark's workshop and experience his latest technological innovations.

Downey Jr. described these new experiences as embodying the Stark Enterprises mission, emphasizing curiosity, passion, and inventiveness. The attraction features "gyro-kinetic pods" and a giant robot arm inspired by Tony Stark's DUM-E, which will guide guests through high-speed maneuvers. Chief Creative Officer for Walt Disney Imagineering Bruce Vaughn noted the uniqueness of this ride, where the technology itself becomes part of the story, with dancers and motion capture used to bring the robotic elements to life.