New 2D Metroid Game Could Be the Next Big Thing

by

Despite the eager anticipation surrounding Metroid Prime 4: Beyond prior to the Switch 2’s debut, there might be another Metroid title emerging in 2025 if the rumors hold true. The success of the 2D Metroid series with the arrival of 2021’s Metroid Dread has sparked a trend, paving the way for 2D games to coexist alongside the Metroid Prime series. A trustworthy Nintendo leaker suggests that a new 2D Metroid game could be unveiled as early as 2025 or 2026.

Source Nash Weedle, who accurately leaked the upcoming release of Metroid Dread on Nintendo Switch in 2021, posted another leak on platform X (previously Twitter) in 2023, suggesting that Nintendo is planning to launch another 2D Metroid game in 2025. Given that Metroid Prime 4: Beyond has been confirmed for a 2025 release, it’s plausible that this additional game might be delayed until 2026; however, the prospect of a new 2D Metroid game following so closely after Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is still thrilling. If this rumored new game turns out to be a sequel to Metroid Dread, it could mark a significant milestone in the series, building upon its predecessor’s solid foundation.

Spoilers for Metroid Dread ahead.

Metroid’s Post-Dread Saga Needs to Fully Explore Samus’ Metroid Powers

The Rumored New 2D Metroid Game Could Mark the Start of a New Era of the Franchise

In the thrilling conclusion of “Metroid Dread”, Samus’ intricate bond with the game’s namesake organism reached its peak. The X Parasite vaccine she received in “Metroid Fusion” allowed her dormant Metroid genetics to fully activate. Throughout “Metroid Dread”, players catch glimpses of this power, but it’s when Samus obtains the complete Metroid Suit during the final battle against Raven Beak, the game’s main villain, that a pivotal moment occurs for the series. Now that Samus has accepted and harnessed the powers bestowed upon her by her Metroid DNA, it’s challenging to imagine future 2D “Metroid” games rolling back these abilities.

In the final stages of “Metroid Dread”, Samus gained control over her Metroid abilities following the absorption of the Quiet Robe. There’s potential for these powers to erupt anew in a future installment of the game series.

The upcoming 2D Metroid game could significantly redefine the series by fully embracing Samus’ newly resurrected Metroid powers. If the previous Metroid games, including Dread, represented Samus’ journey before she gained these abilities, then the conclusion of Dread signifies the beginning of a new phase in which Samus must master these newly acquired skills. This new chapter in the Metroid series would align with its recent resurgence, and a sequel to Metroid Dread in the near future would be ideal for introducing this fresh era.

How Samus’ Metroid Powers Could Be Total Game-Changers for 2D Metroid Games

Fans of Metroid are likely accustomed to the classic aspects of the 2D games, such as an interconnected map on which players must collect Samus’ different weapons and suit enhancements to advance deeper into the game. These elements form a crucial part of the Metroid gaming experience, yet they have not undergone substantial change across the series’ history. But by focusing more on Samus’ Metroid powers in a future installment, developers could introduce an exciting twist to the series formula while enriching the in-universe storyline.

In a future 2D Metroid game, inspired by Zelda’s abilities in “Echoes of Wisdom,” Samus might acquire powers that temporarily mimic those of her defeated foes. This could introduce an array of new gameplay mechanics and exploration possibilities, possibly redefining the classic Metroid structure. Instead of a linear map, this new design could cater to diverse playstyles, allowing players to decide how to use the abilities they absorb from enemies, potentially offering a fresh perspective on the franchise.

Read More

2025-02-03 00:56