Back in 2003, Retro Studios proved themselves with the release of Metroid Prime. Making up for lost time with the absence of a Metroid game on the Nintendo 64, Metroid Prime not only proved that a fully realized 3D game could live up to the likes of Super Metroid but also that, despite the Nintendo GameCube’s, even for the time, paltry 1.45GB disc limit, Metroid Prime delivered on a truly next-gen experience that helped Nintendo’s lunchbox-esque console appeal to more than just the kiddos.
With the surprise release of Metroid Prime Remastered, I was skeptical going in as the original game seemed insurmountable to live up to.
Thankfully, Metroid Prime Remastered is not only a great addition to the Nintendo Switch library but also a fantastic remaster, one verging on remake territory, thanks to improved assets and quality of life improvements across the board.
From added details, including global illumination techniques, particle effects and brand-new models and textures, Metroid Prime Remastered takes full advantage of the Nintendo Switch’s capabilities, delivering the definitive version of Retro Studios’ beloved Gamecube classic.
“Metroid Prime Remastered delivers a rock-solid framerate and visuals that place the game in the upper echelons of Switch exclusives.”
Additionally, playing the game undocked is a joy, with the image quality holding up rather well, with only minor shimmering on harsh angles. Metroid Prime on the go made me reminisce about playing Metroid Prime Hunters back on the Nintendo DS, but with graphics that would likely make my 13-year-old brain implode. Regardless of how you embark on your adventure on Tallon IV, Metroid Prime Remastered delivers a rock-solid framerate and visuals that place the game in the upper echelons of Switch exclusives.
Control-wise, Metroid Prime Remastered offers a bevy of options, including both classic Gamecube-style controls and Wii-inspired motion controls, which both feel great and approximate playing the Gamecube and Wii versions, respectively (particularly if you use an actual Gamecube controller via Smash Brothers USB adapter). An option for hybrid controls and modern, dual-stick controls are also present, giving newcomers a more typical FPS experience.
Clocking in at around the 15-20 hour mark, Metroid Prime Remastered is on the shorter side all things considered, leaving me hopeful for the remaining two mainline entries in the series to get Switch releases at some point in the future.
Metroid Prime Remastered fills me with hope for Metroid Prime 4, which has all but disappeared since its initial announcement, but Retro Studios have proven that they care about the series and will likely deliver what fans want in the future if their latest release is anything to go by.
