Published on: November 25, 2024
Piggyback, the publisher known for producing high-quality official strategy guides for blockbuster Nintendo titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, has announced its latest collaboration with Nintendo: an official Metroid Prime art book.
Titled 'Metroid Prime 1-3: A Visual Retrospective,' this comprehensive volume is scheduled to launch in Summer 2025 and will serve as a celebration of the groundbreaking Metroid Prime series.
Over its history, the Metroid Prime franchise has left a significant mark on the Nintendo platform landscape, with its atmospheric exploration, distinctive art direction, and genre-defining gameplay.
Originally developed by Retro Studios in partnership with Nintendo, the series debuted on the Nintendo GameCube in 2002 and has since evolved to include Metroid Prime 2: Echoes and Metroid Prime 3: Corruption, as well as the more recent Metroid Prime Remastered for Nintendo Switch.
The new Piggyback art book aims to chronicle this artistic journey through hundreds of high-quality illustrations and developer commentary.
According to details shared on the official Piggyback website, 'Metroid Prime 1-3: A Visual Retrospective' will encompass artwork from Metroid Prime, Metroid Prime 2: Echoes, Metroid Prime 3: Corruption, and Metroid Prime Remastered.
The 212-page volume will be presented on premium art stock with a lavish cloth-bound hardcover, adorned with metallic foil featuring the iconic Samus Aran.
Readers will be treated to a variety of rare concept art, developmental drawings, and in-depth behind-the-scenes content that shines a light on the creation of the celebrated trilogy.
Among the book's standout features are:
- A foreword penned by Kensuke Tanabe, longtime Metroid Prime producer, offering exclusive insights into the franchise’s development.
- Developer introductions authored by Retro Studios for each entry in the Prime series, giving further context to the games’ artistic direction.
- Dozens of producer’s notes that delve into the design philosophies and creative decisions behind some of Metroid’s most memorable visuals.
- Exceptional production values, with all content carefully bound and presented for both collectors and fans alike.
"This visual retrospective dives deep into the artistry that has defined the Metroid Prime series, featuring commentary and anecdotes from those who helped shape these iconic games," Piggyback stated, highlighting the dedication to authenticity and quality that fans have come to expect from both Piggyback and Nintendo.
The release is slated for Summer 2025, with a suggested retail price of £39.99 / €44.99.
While an exact street date has not been confirmed, excitement around the project is mounting, particularly following the strong critical and commercial performance of both Metroid Prime Remastered for Nintendo Switch and Piggyback’s previous Zelda companion books.
For long-time Metroid fans and newcomers alike, 'Metroid Prime 1-3: A Visual Retrospective' promises to be an essential addition to any gaming library.
For updates, continue to follow official channels, including the Piggyback website and Nintendo Direct presentations.