Universal's Epic Universe is largely a triumph, and will instantly become the the favorite theme park of many. It should also change the industry.

Walt Disney Co. is girding for the opening of a new, lavish Orlando theme park from rival Universal next month with a combination of new live events and discounts.

The new Epic Universe in Florida marks the first new major theme park in the United States in nearly a quarter century, lives up to the hype created during the years of buildup and ups the ante in Universal’s crosstown showdown with rival Walt Disney World.