The Falcon is Getting a Major Technical Upgrade
It is time to punch it! Disney just released the official poster for the highly anticipated Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run update, and it looks like the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy is heading into a new era. Starting May 22, 2026, guests at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort will find themselves in the middle of a mission featuring the galaxy’s favorite duo: the Mandalorian and Grogu.
This isn’t just a simple swap of a few video files. Disney is completely overhaulng the attraction’s backbone by shifting to Unreal Engine 5. This is the same powerful platform used to produce the visuals for the live-action series on Disney+. By using this tech, the attraction will render visuals in real time, creating a much more immersive and high-fidelity experience than ever before.
New Storyline: Tatooine and Pirates
The update brings a brand-new narrative to the cockpit. While Hondo Ohnaka is still the one handing out the assignments, he’s picked up word that some ex-Imperial officers are making deals with pirates on the desert world of Tatooine. Naturally, he needs a crew to go down there and take care of business. For the first time ever, the experience will feel even more interactive because your crew will actually be able to set a course for the destination.
The role of the Engineer is also getting a massive boost. During the flight, Engineers will have a new gameplay feature that allows them to communicate directly with Grogu. This adds a layer of character interaction that was previously missing from the attraction, making every seat in the cockpit feel more vital to the story.
Why This Matters for Your 2026 Trip
The timing of this update is no coincidence. The new mission launches simultaneously at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida and Disneyland Park in California on May 22, 2026. This is the exact same day that The Mandalorian and Grogu feature film arrives in cinemas. It’s a brilliant bit of synergy that turns the attraction into a living extension of the movie’s premiere.
Pro-Tips for Your Next Jump to Hyperspace
- Plan for Crowds: May 22, 2026, is going to be a massive day for Star Wars fans. If you’re visiting either resort during the launch week, expect wait times for Smugglers Run to be significantly higher than usual.
- Master the Lightning Lane: This attraction is a prime candidate for Lightning Lane Multi Pass. Since the update is a permanent addition, those early morning selections will go quickly. If you want to see the new Tatooine mission without a three-hour wait, prioritize this in your planning.
- Try the Engineer Seat: While the Pilot seat is usually the most requested, the new interaction with Grogu means the Engineer role might finally become the most popular position in the cockpit. Don’t be afraid to take the back row for this new experience!
This update is a clear sign that Disney is committed to keeping Galaxy’s Edge current with the ever-evolving Star Wars timeline. Whether you’re a casual fan or a die-hard follower of the Way, the chance to fly alongside Mando and Grogu is going to make this a must-do for any 2026 vacation.
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.