Full Breakdown
Disney Reverts Name Change for Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
2/25/2026, 9:08:43 PM
Overview of the Name Change and Reversion
Walt Disney World recently updated the name of its Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios to include the subtitle “A New Mission.” This change was intended to reflect an upcoming update set to launch on May 22, 2026, which will introduce a new storyline and gameplay features inspired by the Star Wars series, particularly focusing on Din Djarin and Grogu from *The Mandalorian*. However, just one day after the update, Disney reverted the name back to its original title, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run.
Details of the Upcoming Update
Despite the reversion of the name, the attraction's description remains updated. The new mission will allow guests to join Din Djarin and Grogu in tracking down ex-Imperial officers across various iconic Star Wars locations, including Bespin, the wreckage of the second Death Star, and the newly introduced city-planet, Coruscant. For the first time, guests will have control over their destination, enhancing the ride's interactivity. Additionally, a new feature will enable engineers to communicate with Grogu during the mission, adding a layer of engagement to the experience.
Technical Enhancements
The update will also include significant technological improvements. Walt Disney Imagineering has rebuilt the attraction's visual system, utilizing upgraded NVIDIA hardware and real-time rendering via Unreal Engine 5. This collaboration with Industrial Light and Magic (ILM) and Epic Games allows the use of authentic 3D assets from Lucasfilm’s production library, ensuring a high-quality visual experience for riders.
Criticism & Opposition
The abrupt reversion of the name has led to speculation regarding whether the initial update was an error or if Disney decided against the new subtitle. Some fans and commentators have expressed confusion over the inconsistency, questioning the communication strategy employed by Disney regarding the attraction's branding.
Official Statements & Responses
While Disney has not provided a detailed explanation for the name change and subsequent reversion, the updated description of the attraction remains available on the Walt Disney World website and the My Disney Experience app. The company has emphasized that the new mission will be available simultaneously at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland, independent of the upcoming *The Mandalorian* feature film.
What's Next
The new mission for Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run is set to debut on May 22, 2026, coinciding with the release of the *The Mandalorian* film. As anticipation builds, Disney continues to promote the ride's enhancements, aiming to attract both Star Wars fans and theme park visitors alike.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Both the Walt Disney World website and app have kept the updated description despite reverting the name back: A New Mission Is Coming Soon Beginning May 22, 2026, join Din Djarin, the mysterious Mandalorian bounty hunter, and his youngling Grogu on an exciting new mission—tracking down elusive ex-Imperial officers throughout the galaxy.” — Walt Disney World Description
- “Imagineering revisited every role, with the goal of clearer tasks, better feedback, and more responsive controls across the cockpit.” — Walt Disney World Announcement
