“Metroid Prime Remastered” in the test: That’s why the classic is still worth it today

During the last Nintendo Direct, Nintendo fans were actually waiting for a sign of life from “Metroid Prime 4”, which has been in development for an eternity. But instead of new information and moving images, the potential hit again conspicuous with its absence.

But Big N delivered two surprises: not only was “Metroid Prime Remastered” announced, but it was immediately available on the online store. Those who prefer the physical version will have to wait until March 3, but the digital version can already start with bounty hunter Samus Aran. But for the price of more than 40 francs, the fan had to swallow hard.

The first excursion into the 3D world

The original was released in 2002 for the Nintendo GameCube, sending the brand into the 3D world for the first time. The mix of first-person shooter and action-adventure resonated with audiences and became a huge success, spawning two sequels into the video game world. Even though this game came out after the 2D titles, it is placed chronologically after the very first “Metroid” game from the 1980s.

An alien planet and an alien threat

So, “Metroid Prime” takes place after the 1986 NES game and sends Samus Aran into space for the time being, where she follows a distress signal. As soon as she arrives at an ominous frigate, events happen: genetically engineered creatures hunt her, explosions take place and the first massive enemy awaits us.

Samus survives, saves herself in her ship and eventually has to land on the planet Tallon IV. For reasons, she has completely lost almost all her abilities and weapons, and now she must not only look for updates, but also clarify who this signal comes from, why a foreign power has settled on the planet and how everything with it very first part is connected.

A must have game in those days

“Metroid Prime” was critically acclaimed in 2002. The cult franchise’s leap from 2D to 3D was outstanding, and the blend of action and exploration, with GameCube controller control working exceptionally well, provided hours of gameplay. The atmosphere, especially the masterful soundtrack, was long remembered by many players. So the original was a must-have title at the time. But what about today?

Beautiful and velvety soft

“Metroid Prime Remastered” always looks gorgeous and plays fast and velvety smooth with no stutters or dips. If you directly compare the original and the new edition, it already seems like a completely new game, although the same basic framework has been used here.

The high-resolution textures, the many new details in the natural environment and the revised, well-known sound effects delight the heart of the player, who in 2002 could not believe what the GameCube could conjure.

Tinker individual checks

But “Metroid Prime Remastered” doesn’t just look good visually. The original already had impeccable handling, but now it’s even better. Because the control is configurable and has various options to put together your own highly individual control. Very commendable and invites you to tinker.

Game play interrupted due to scans

But here, too, the ravages of time have left their mark. If you are thirsty for more background and story information and want to learn more about the planet and its flora and fauna, you will have to scan many objects. The knowledge must therefore be collected proactively, which is not really a problem in itself. The problem, however, is that each scan switches to a mode that interrupts immersion and takes you out of the flow of the game. Anyone who loves background information in this game should be aware of this constant interruption.

Going back and forth becomes torture

While it’s common in a “Metroid” game that you often have to make your way through an area you’re already familiar with, this feature is very, very common in “Metroid Prime Remastered”. To overcome an obstacle, a certain area must be searched again. And the fact that many opponents appear again who have already been defeated, makes the whole thing even more difficult. As I said, “Metroid” fans know this game principle, but this eternal back and forth can also become torture.

Get in the suit!

Conclusion: Yes, we are all waiting for “Metroid 4”. Yes, over 40 francs for “Metroid Prime Remastered” is a lot of money. Yes, why does Nintendo not also include the two successors in the overall package? And yes, a few game mechanics haven’t aged very well.

But this video game just looks way too good to be maliciously ignored. In addition, this game has a soundtrack that belongs in every ear and the flawless playability and the perfect symbiosis between action and exploration still work perfectly today.

Both connoisseurs of the original and newcomers who missed the game at the time will be offered the best video game entertainment for over 20 hours. Put on your suit, have fun and plug holes in video games if necessary!

“Metroid Prime Remastered” is available for Nintendo Switch (digital). Suitable from 12 years.