Ride Review: Fyre Drill at Universal Epic Universe

Thrill Geek

10-05-2025

Fyre Drill in the Isle of Berk is a playful, hands-on addition to Universal's new How to Train Your Dragon land—perfect for families looking to cool off and have a little Viking-style splash battle.
The theming here is outstanding. You feel like you've stumbled into a Viking training ground, with colorful ships, flame-like targets, and dragon motifs woven into every part of the ride. Ruffnut and Tuffnut's chaotic energy shines through the design, making the whole experience feel light-hearted and full of character.
As for gameplay, the water cannons are fun but tricky—how hard you hit targets sometimes depends on the water pressure and your aim. Some cannons have stronger streams than others, so reaching distant or higher targets can be challenging. It's part of the fun, but don't be surprised if not every shot lands exactly where you want it.
One important thing to note: how wet you get is extremely variable. You could come off just lightly misted—or drenched, depending on your boat's position and your opponents' enthusiasm. If you're planning a packed park day, you'll want to think twice before hopping on unless you're prepared to dry off.
Thankfully, Universal thought ahead: there's a very secure, watertight storage area on each boat to keep bags, phones, and valuables dry. It's easy to use and a huge relief for anyone worried about their belongings getting soaked. Just watch your step when boarding and exiting—the boats and dock can get slippery, and it's an easy place to lose your footing if you're not careful.
Overall, Fyre Drill is pure dragon-fueled fun, with lots of laughs and a competitive edge that kids especially will love. For adults, it's a great break if you're looking for something lighthearted—but if you're short on time or don't want to risk getting soaked, it might be one to skip.
Janine is a theme park and pop culture nerd from an early age. Since 1994, she's been traversing the theme park world and has enjoyed all things from Halloween events to new ride releases and beyond. When she's not at a theme park, she's probably at a concert or doing something fun with her kiddo.