Not only specialized terminals, but if memory serves, needed longer and stronger runways as well... putting most of the existing infrastructure for passenger travel unserviceable by this behemoth.
But now, the upcoming Boeing 777-9, which will fly by summer, will have the same runway requirements as the current 777-300ER, even though the 777-9 has carrying capacity more akin to the 747-400. Indeed, the ending of the A380 program means Boeing now could end up selling a HUGE (literally) number of 777-9's as they start to replace the A380 in the 2020's.