Summary
- Release Year: 2021
- Genres: Adventure, Platform
- Platforms: Nintendo Switch
- Developers: MercurySteam, Nintendo EPD
- Publishers: Nintendo
Metroid Dread: A Thrilling Return to 2D Metroid Excellence
Introduction
After a 19-year hiatus, the 2D Metroid series returns with a bang in Metroid Dread. This highly anticipated sequel to Metroid Fusion picks up where its predecessor left off, following intergalactic bounty hunter Samus Aran as she investigates a mysterious transmission on the remote planet ZDR. What she finds is a hostile world overrun by vicious alien lifeforms and deadly mechanical menaces.
Gameplay
Metroid Dread retains the classic 2D Metroid gameplay formula that fans know and love. Players control Samus Aran as she explores a labyrinthine world, acquiring new abilities and upgrades that allow her to progress through the game’s many interconnected environments. The game’s world is beautifully detailed and atmospheric, with a variety of locations to explore, from lush jungles to underwater caverns.
One of the most significant new additions to Metroid Dread is the Aeion ability. Aeion allows Samus to perform a variety of new moves, such as the Flash Shift, which lets her dodge attacks and quickly reposition herself, and the Phantom Cloak, which makes her invisible to enemies. These new abilities add a new layer of depth and strategy to the game’s combat and exploration.
Another new feature in Metroid Dread is the E.M.M.I. These robotic enemies are relentlessly pursuing Samus throughout the game. If they catch her, they will instantly kill her. Samus must use her wits and abilities to avoid the E.M.M.I.s or find ways to disable them.
Story
The story of Metroid Dread is a dark and atmospheric tale that expands on the lore of the Metroid series. Samus travels to planet ZDR to investigate a mysterious transmission sent to the Galactic Federation. Upon her arrival, she discovers that the planet has been overrun by a deadly alien parasite known as the X. The X can infect and possess any living creature, transforming them into monstrous versions of themselves.
As Samus investigates ZDR, she uncovers a sinister plot that threatens the entire galaxy. She must race against time to stop the X from spreading and uncover the truth behind the planet’s dark secrets.
Characters
- Samus Aran: The legendary bounty hunter returns in Metroid Dread, more agile and capable than ever. She is equipped with a variety of new abilities and weapons, including the Aeion ability, which grants her new moves and powers.
- E.M.M.I.: These robotic enemies are relentless pursuers that will stop at nothing to kill Samus. They are immune to most of her attacks and can only be defeated by finding specific weaknesses.
- Raven Beak: A mysterious and powerful Chozo warrior who serves as the main antagonist of Metroid Dread. He is the leader of the Mawkin tribe, a group of Chozo who have been corrupted by the X parasite.
Graphics and Sound
Metroid Dread is a visually stunning game that takes full advantage of the Nintendo Switch’s hardware. The game’s environments are richly detailed and atmospheric, with a variety of locations to explore, from lush jungles to underwater caverns. The character models are also very well-animated, and the game’s cutscenes are beautifully rendered.
The game’s sound design is also top-notch. The music is atmospheric and immersive, and the sound effects are realistic and impactful. The game’s voice acting is also very good, with the voice actors delivering strong performances.
Overall
Metroid Dread is a triumphant return to form for the 2D Metroid series. The game features tight controls, challenging gameplay, a gripping story, and gorgeous graphics and sound. It is a must-play for fans of the series and anyone who enjoys action-adventure games.
Score: 9/10
Review Score
9/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
