“EPIC LAND", a thesis design project by Ryotaro Okada, was awarded the Best Thesis Design Award by UCLA Architecture and Urban Design in 2024. It reimagines the concept of an urban theme park by blending immersive entertainment with architectural innovation. Inspired by the real-world collaboration between Disney and Epic Games, EPIC LAND offers Los Angeles a full day of interactive storytelling and immersion into the world of Epic Games' iconic intellectual properties—all contained within a single building.
See the article about "EPIC LAND" on the UCLA AUD website.
Walk through the pedestrian deck that weaves between buildings and unique structures to the entrance of the building. The deck offers guests a glimpse of the various attractions as they walk.
A grand immersive gateway that instantly transports visitors into a vibrant, gaming-inspired world. The entrance also creates an eye-catching facade towards the city and attracts people passing by.
Plants and the sound of dripping water accentuate the mysterious atmosphere in the entrance area. The signage tells guests not only directions but also an attraction recommendation.
Step into the world of battle royale style games, Fortnite and Gears of War. Guests can undergo battle simulations with AR technology on the landscape recreating the game scenes.
After the intense battles, guests can take a break in the refreshing and relaxing greenhouse gardens. The sound of the stream and the water falling from the floating island invites you to this area.
A live music and light spectacular show inspired by the psychedelic visuals and musical themes from Artful Escape. The giant tree works as a symbol of the building.
The building is organized around two core components: Permeable Cells, each dedicated to a specific Epic Games IP and offering tailored digital-spatial experiences—and the Canyon Space, a dynamic corridor that connects these spaces both physically and visually, creating a continuous narrative that unfolds as guests move one space to the other throughout the day.
