How a New 2D Metroid Game Could Show That Metroid Dread Was Just the Beginning

How a New 2D Metroid Game Could Show That Metroid Dread Was Just the Beginning

As anticipation builds for the highly awaited Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, a credible leak suggests that 2025 could usher in another Metroid title. Following the successful revival of 2D Metroid games with the launch of Metroid Dread in 2021, the potential for multiple titles within the franchise seems more promising than ever. According to esteemed Nintendo leaker Nash Weedle, there are plans for a new 2D Metroid game, targeting either 2025 or 2026 for its release.

Weedle, who accurately forecasted the launch of Metroid Dread for the Switch, shared insights in 2023 via X (formerly Twitter).He hinted that Nintendo is preparing to unveil a new 2D Metroid installment that may be released in close proximity to Metroid Prime 4: Beyond—conveniently scheduled for a 2025 launch. Should this new project align as a sequel to Metroid Dread, it could represent a pivotal shift in the series’ narrative trajectory, building upon the groundwork laid by its predecessor.

Spoilers for Metroid Dread follow below.

Exploring Samus’ Metroid Powers: A New Chapter Post-Dread

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A Potential New Era for the Franchise

The final moments of Metroid Dread brought to a head Samus’ intricate bond with the Metroid species. The vaccine she received against the X Parasite—introduced in Metroid Fusion—enabled her latent Metroid DNA to manifest. The transformation culminated during her encounter with her adversary Raven Beak, when she harnessed the full power of the Metroid Suit. This development signifies a major evolution for the series, as Samus has now accepted her heritage, making it challenging for future installments to downplay these newfound capabilities.

Samus’ Metroid abilities appear stabilized after her confrontation with Quiet Robe in Metroid Dread, yet the stage is set for these powers to resurface in a future title.

The next 2D Metroid installment possesses the potential to drastically reimagine the franchise. If prior titles charted Samus’ arc leading up to her Metroid abilities, then the conclusion of Dread should herald a fresh journey—one where Samus learns to master her extraordinary powers. This fresh narrative direction aligns perfectly with the newfound excitement surrounding the series and positions a follow-up to Metroid Dread as the ideal vehicle for this new chapter.

Samus’ Metroid Powers: Innovative Gameplay Mechanics Await

Fans of the Metroid franchise are well-versed in the iconic elements of the 2D games, characterized by intricate maps that necessitate players to reclaim various weapons and upgrades to advance. While these foundational mechanics form the core of the series, there has been limited evolution in how they manifest over the years. However, fully embracing Samus’ Metroid abilities in a forthcoming title could shake up the series considerably, while simultaneously deepening the rich lore of the franchise.

The primary power Samus has acquired from her Metroid DNA—absorbing energy from foes—could offer innovative gameplay opportunities reminiscent of mechanics from titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Imagine a scenario where Samus temporarily adopts the abilities of adversaries she defeats; such a game could revolutionize gameplay. Players would have the chance to navigate a less linear environment, tailoring their exploration and combat styles according to the powers they utilize, thereby signaling a remarkable evolution of the franchise.

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