Metroid Prime 2 Multiplayer Mode: Producer Kensuke Tanabe Hopes for Wider Audience on Nintendo Switch

Metroid Prime 2 Multiplayer Mode: Producer Kensuke Tanabe Hopes for Wider Audience on Nintendo Switch The Metroid Prime series, regarded as one of Nintendo's most acclaimed franchises, marked a significant era in gaming with its immersive worlds and innovative gameplay.

Developed by Retro Studios and published by Nintendo, the series gained prominence on the Nintendo GameCube and continues to build its legacy on modern platforms like the Nintendo Switch.

In a new revelation from the recently released 'Metroid Prime 1-3: A Visual Retrospective' artbook, Kensuke Tanabe, longstanding producer of the Metroid Prime series, expressed his wish for the multiplayer mode of Metroid Prime 2 to reach a broader audience today. Released in November 2004 for the Nintendo GameCube, 'Metroid Prime 2: Echoes' introduced a local multiplayer mode—a unique addition for a franchise known primarily for its single-player exploration.

In the retrospective, Tanabe underscored the dedication that Retro Studios brought to this feature.

He noted that despite the time constraints following the release of the original Metroid Prime, the development team ensured that multiplayer was not an afterthought.

According to Tanabe, the developers poured significant effort into the mode, maintaining high quality "even under challenging conditions." "The team at Retro Studios completed the multiplayer aspect of Metroid Prime 2 without skimping on quality, even though the conditions were demanding," Tanabe reflected in the artbook.

He further acknowledged that, due to its local-only design, relatively few players were able to experience the multiplayer mode firsthand.

Tanabe stated that if the opportunity arises for a remake or new release, he would be pleased for more fans to try out this often overlooked component. Development timeline pressures also shaped Metroid Prime 2's evolution.

After the original Metroid Prime’s successful launch, Nintendo directed Retro Studios to quickly begin work on their next project.

According to Tanabe's account, there were initial discussions around crafting a multiplayer-centric "Metroid Prime 1.5." Ultimately, the development team advocated for and achieved a fully realized standalone sequel in 'Metroid Prime 2: Echoes,' incorporating multiplayer as a notable feature. The Metroid Prime series has enjoyed continued success, with high-definition remasters and expanded releases on the Nintendo Switch via the eShop, bringing the franchise to new audiences worldwide.

As anticipation builds for potential future releases and remakes, particularly with the advent of HD and online capabilities on modern Nintendo hardware, Tanabe’s comments resonate with a fanbase eager to see these classic modes revived and expanded for the current generation. With confirmed sales milestones for the series and Retro Studios' celebrated track record, the legacy of Metroid Prime 2’s multiplayer mode remains a testament to the team's creativity and resilience.

If reintroduced on Nintendo Switch, this feature could find the broader recognition that its creators—and long-time fans—believe it deserves.

Nintendo Switch Metroid Metroid Prime Nintendo Retro Studios Switch Multiplayer Kensuke Tanabe Metroid Prime series developer multiplayer Metroid Prime 2 GameCube Metroid Prime 1-3: A Visual Retrospective