Metroid: Samus Returns Marks a New Era for 2D Metroid on Nintendo 3DS
Metroid: Samus Returns, the eagerly anticipated revival of the classic Metroid II: Return of Samus, is set to launch exclusively on Nintendo 3DS on September 15th.
Developed by MercurySteam in collaboration with Nintendo, this entry revives the beloved 2D gameplay that defined the Metroid franchise, giving fans another opportunity to explore the origins of Samus Aran's intergalactic journey. The game's release is particularly significant in the wake of mixed receptions to previous Metroid titles such as Metroid: Other M and Metroid Prime: Federation Force.
Nintendo has faced uncertainty about the future of the franchise due to these lukewarm responses, prompting a renewed focus on understanding player demand for traditional 2D Metroid experiences.
As a result, Metroid: Samus Returns serves as both a fresh take on a classic and a litmus test for the franchise’s direction moving forward. Yoshio Sakamoto, the renowned series producer, recently opened up about his renewed enthusiasm for the 2D Metroid style during an interview with Game Informer.
According to Sakamoto, working on Metroid: Samus Returns has allowed him to rediscover the excitement of creating side-scrolling action and inspired him to consider developing future entries in the same vein.
Sakamoto expressed that players who experienced both the original and the new version would "sense the passion and dedication embedded in this remake." Furthermore, Sakamoto emphasized that the future of 2D Metroid titles largely depends on fan support.
"Having gone through the development of Metroid: Samus Returns, I truly appreciate the unique fun and potential of 2D Metroid once again," Sakamoto noted.
"If given the chance, I would love to work on another title in this style.
Ultimately, this depends on how much the community wants new 2D Metroid games." It is worth noting that Sakamoto is not involved in the development of Metroid Prime 4 for Nintendo Switch.
That forthcoming title is being overseen by producer Kensuke Tanabe, who is collaborating with a new development team to steer the series’ 3D legacy in a fresh direction. Set to launch exclusively on Nintendo 3DS, Metroid: Samus Returns represents a pivotal moment for both the hardware platform and the storied franchise.
As the September 15th release date approaches, all eyes are on fan reception and sales performance, which could determine the fate of future 2D Metroid projects.
Players can pick up Metroid: Samus Returns via retail or through the Nintendo eShop, joining Samus Aran once more in a reimagined mission that honors the roots of one of Nintendo’s most iconic franchises.
Developed by MercurySteam in collaboration with Nintendo, this entry revives the beloved 2D gameplay that defined the Metroid franchise, giving fans another opportunity to explore the origins of Samus Aran's intergalactic journey. The game's release is particularly significant in the wake of mixed receptions to previous Metroid titles such as Metroid: Other M and Metroid Prime: Federation Force.
Nintendo has faced uncertainty about the future of the franchise due to these lukewarm responses, prompting a renewed focus on understanding player demand for traditional 2D Metroid experiences.
As a result, Metroid: Samus Returns serves as both a fresh take on a classic and a litmus test for the franchise’s direction moving forward. Yoshio Sakamoto, the renowned series producer, recently opened up about his renewed enthusiasm for the 2D Metroid style during an interview with Game Informer.
According to Sakamoto, working on Metroid: Samus Returns has allowed him to rediscover the excitement of creating side-scrolling action and inspired him to consider developing future entries in the same vein.
Sakamoto expressed that players who experienced both the original and the new version would "sense the passion and dedication embedded in this remake." Furthermore, Sakamoto emphasized that the future of 2D Metroid titles largely depends on fan support.
"Having gone through the development of Metroid: Samus Returns, I truly appreciate the unique fun and potential of 2D Metroid once again," Sakamoto noted.
"If given the chance, I would love to work on another title in this style.
Ultimately, this depends on how much the community wants new 2D Metroid games." It is worth noting that Sakamoto is not involved in the development of Metroid Prime 4 for Nintendo Switch.
That forthcoming title is being overseen by producer Kensuke Tanabe, who is collaborating with a new development team to steer the series’ 3D legacy in a fresh direction. Set to launch exclusively on Nintendo 3DS, Metroid: Samus Returns represents a pivotal moment for both the hardware platform and the storied franchise.
As the September 15th release date approaches, all eyes are on fan reception and sales performance, which could determine the fate of future 2D Metroid projects.
Players can pick up Metroid: Samus Returns via retail or through the Nintendo eShop, joining Samus Aran once more in a reimagined mission that honors the roots of one of Nintendo’s most iconic franchises.
