Multiple former Retro Studios developers have shared their hopes for Nintendo’sMetroid Prime 4in a series of short interviews posted to YouTube, giving some insight into what players could expect from the long-delayed sequel. AcclaimedMetroid Primedeveloper Retro Studioshas remained tight-lipped about the next outing in the franchise ever since taking the reins on development in 2019.
Founded in 1998 to develop games for the new Nintendo GameCube, Retro Studios has become beloved among many Nintendo fans for its revitalizing work on theDonkey KongandMetroidfranchises. Although the Texas developer has worked on several games for Nintendo, it is most well-known for itsMetroid Primefranchise which sawbounty hunter Samus Aranjump from her side-scrolling roots into the world of first-person shooters. The franchise went dormant after 2009’s Wii-exclusiveMetroid Prime Trilogyuntil E3 2017, whenMetroid Prime 4was announced for the Nintendo Switch.
RELATED:Metroid Prime Dev Team Kept Their GameCube in the Freezer
In a series of short interviews posted to the YouTube channel Kiwi Talkz, which specializes in interviews aboutMetroid Primeand Retro Studios, several former Retro developers shared their hopes for the highly anticipated sequel. Commenting on the core gameplay of the title,Metroid Prime Trilogylead technical engineer Jack Mathews remarks that “I almost hope they don’t go forMetroid: Breath of the Wild,” stating his preference for detailed interior levels with dense geometry. Regarding the game’s multiple development delays, Mathews shares his belief thatMetroid Prime 4will be worth the waitdue to Nintendo’s focus on releasing titles only when they’re truly ready.
Speaking about potential storylines forMetroid Prime 4, former Retro Studiossenior producer Bryan Walker expressed hope that the game would reveal more about the ominous Galactic Federation that governs much of theMetroiduniverse. Echoing sentiments espoused by Jack Mathews earlier in the video,Metroid Prime Trilogysenior designer Mike Wikan appears briefly to share his belief that Retro Studios will do a great job withMetroid Prime 4because “they understand what aMetroidgame is.” Closing out the video are comments on potential audio design fromMetroid Prime 1and2audio lead Clark Wen. Referencing the work of composer Hildur Gudnadottir on HBO’sChernobyl, Wen comments that he’d like to see a soundscape that blends the style of originalMetroidcomposer Hirokazu Tanaka with ambient world noise.
While it remains to be seen when gamers will once again be able to don Samus’ helmet to take on alien foes inMetroid Prime 4, these insights from the developers that brought the franchise to life in the first place should make fans optimistic about the series’ future. With the existence of the rumoredMetroid Primeremasterlooking more unlikely by the day, these optimistic interviews could help hold gamers over while they wait forMetroid Prime 4.
Metroid Prime 4is currently in development for the Nintendo Switch.
MORE:Metroid Fusion has Defined the Franchise’s Horror Side for 20 Years
