The upgrades were really cool! Our daughter is 12 so she could get into the Edge and the club/lab. She spent a lot of time in the clubs due to the new additions. The Star Wars section had some interactive games to play, fun displays, and looked really cool. I thought the Marvel room looked better, but both were awesome. Both had fun 30 minute interactive shows with characters that she loved!!! Marvel had Thor and Dr Strange. Star Wars had Jedi Training, BB8, stormtroopers somewhere, etc. She'd get down to just about all of those shows.
I can't comment on the crowds. We were on the 11 day and it sailed with less than 500 kids under 18. Most of those were teens, so the clubs were very empty. (which was awesome!)
Keep in mind that they do open up that area several times per cruise teens and adults, that include the character interactions. There were times that edge and vibe had scheduled time in the clubs. Adult only times in the evenings. And open houses for families to join their kids. I got to meet Thor along with 40-50 other grownups!!!
Another 2nd Use Year Question - For Mid April to Mid May Travel
