THE DEFINITIVE VERSION OF
METROID PRIME
I almost forgot the Metroid Prime remaster even existed. It seems as though the hype was there, but it immediately fell off. I'd have to look back at the release window to see what exactly might have happened, however, I'm starting to think the nostalgia outweighed the desire. With Metroid Prime 4 still on the horizon (for now), it's a great time to revisit this series.
RELEASES
GAMECUBE - 2002
| PROS: | - GameCube controller and control scheme work incredibly well together |
| CONS: | - 4:3 aspect ratio in game shows less surface area than future releases |
| NOTES: | - Renders at 480p
- 60fps in game 30fps in menus
- Metroid Fusion unlockables |
WII/WII U [TRILOGY] - 2009
| PROS: | - 16:9 aspect ratio in game
- Unlockable concept art, music, and other media
- Some updated sound effects to match sequels |
| CONS: | - Cutscenes are actually 4:3, but cropped to create a false 16:9
- HUD is stretched to fit new aspect ratio |
| NOTES: | - Renders at 480p
- Fusion suit unlockable |
SWITCH [REMASTERED] - 2023
| PROS: | - Renders at 900p
- HUD overlay has adjustable visual options
- Additional difficulties
- Multiple control schemes
- Improved loading times
- Suit narration added |
| CONS: | - Thermal visor appears to have a reduced resolution and noticeable blur
- Beam projectiles do not emit light |
| NOTES: | - Headbob has been reduced
- Gyro aiming can be found in Camera Options |
NOTABLE DIFFERENCES
BEAM LIGHTING
In the GameCube Version the beam emits light as it flies down the hall. This effect is almost completely removed in the remaster.
DEFINITIVE VERSION
CLICK HERE TO REVEAL THE DEFINITIVE VERSION
Deciding on the Definitive Version of Metroid Prime was a little bit more difficult than you'd think. Not because the games are so different, but because they are so incredibly similar.
I guess what I'm trying to say is that this was easy. A little too easy. So I kept digging and digging but there was nothing there. The remaster is essentially an improvement in nearly every way, except for some visual effects such the thermal visor and beam lighting. You get multiple control options, overhauled graphics, and the same great story, tone, and atmosphere from the original.
Metroid Prime Remastered for Nintendo Switch is the Definitive Version, however, there is one other way to play this game that you might not know about …
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