Exclusive Review: Metroid Dread – The Future of Survival Horror!
Metroid Dread is a critically acclaimed 2021 action-adventure game developed by MercurySteam and Nintendo EPD, published for the Nintendo Switch. It continues the story of Metroid Fusion (2002) and follows bounty hunter Samus Aran as she investigates a mysterious transmission on the planet ZDR. The game retains the classic side-scrolling gameplay of earlier Metroid titles while introducing stealth mechanics and new abilities.
Key Features
- Gameplay: Players explore interconnected environments, gaining new abilities to access previously unreachable areas. Stealth elements are introduced with the EMMI robots, which require evasion and strategy to defeat.
- Story: Samus confronts Raven Beak, who aims to exploit her Metroid DNA. The narrative culminates in a battle that unlocks her latent powers, leading to her escape from the self-destructing planet.
- New Modes: Includes Rookie Mode for beginners, Dread Mode for a one-hit challenge, and Boss Rush mode for replayability.
- Sales and Reception: Metroid Dread became the best-selling game in the franchise, with over three million copies sold. It won Best Action/Adventure Game at The Game Awards 2021 and was praised for its design and innovation.
Development History
Originally conceived for the Nintendo DS in the mid-2000s, Metroid Dread faced development challenges due to technical limitations. After years of speculation, it was officially announced at E3 2021 and marked the first original 2D Metroid game in nearly two decades.
Critical Reception
The game was lauded for its modernized mechanics, intense atmosphere, and challenging gameplay. However, some players found its difficulty punishing. It remains a standout entry in the Metroid series for its blend of classic and innovative elements.