Walt Disney Imagineering Unveils Exciting Updates for Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run Set to Launch in 2026

In a groundbreaking announcement from Walt Disney Imagineering, new concept art and gameplay details for the much-anticipated update to the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run have come to light. This update will debut on May 22, 2026, coinciding with the release of the new feature film, The Mandalorian and Grogu, at Disneyland and Walt Disney World. For the first time, guests will not only pilot the iconic Millennium Falcon but also decide the ship's destination, a feature that is poised to bring a new level of excitement and replayability to the experience. Riders will be able to chart a course to several iconic Star Wars locations, including Tatooine, Bespin, Endor, and Coruscant, dramatically changing the ride dynamics. The attraction’s storyline will also shift, incorporating a bounty hunt led by Hondo Ohnaka, who gears up to confront some shady dealings involving ex-Imperial officers and pirates. Another exciting enhancement focuses on the role of the engineer, which had previously been the least engaging position on the ride. Now, engineers will interact directly with Grogu, triggering reactions and diversifying their role immensely. This innovative approach enhances immersion, allowing participants to feel a deeper connection to the characters and the unfolding story. The implementation of state-of-the-art technology is critical to this update, utilizing Unreal Engine 5, the same technology that powers The Mandalorian series on Disney+. This allows for highly detailed environments that respond dynamically to guest interactions, heightening the overall cinematic experience of the attraction. This initiative, revealed at the Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025 panel, showcases Disney's commitment to enhancing guest experiences by integrating beloved characters and storylines from across the Star Wars universe into the park rides. Given the detailed attention to character engagement and the imaginative expansions of storylines, this upgrade promises to appeal to both die-hard Star Wars fans and casual park-goers alike. As we anticipate May 22, 2026, fans worldwide are eager to step into this new immersive experience that brings them closer to the Star Wars saga while enjoying the intricate storytelling that Disney parks are known for. Galaxy’s Edge continues to evolve as a place for fans to engage with the vast narrative universe of Star Wars, and these updates will undoubtedly keep the magic alive for both long-time fans and newcomers alike.