Metroid, Nintendo, Wii, Metroid Prime 3: Corruption Initial Thoughs @ Gamer411

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I adore the Metroid games. I think I've played every single one to completion, even the scabbily claustrophobic Metroid 2 for Game Boy. I'm such a nutter for Metroid that I made a conscientious effort to keep my sacred eyes away from any online trailers or screenshots and all print articles related to the game. I wanted to keep everything as fresh as possible. Just as an aside, does anyone else not find it worrisome that games are covered in such detail before their release? Isn't a large part of the joy in the discovery?

Anyway, my thoughts on game reviews and the irony of me writing one aside, let me say that Metroid Prime 3 is blissfully similar to the other 2 Metroid Prime games in delivery. The gameplay is the same, the HUD is still there, the fun ball rolling puzzles and everything else you enjoy about Metroid Prime is intact.

Well, perhaps not entirely everything. The one thing that I found so amazingly unique about the original NES Metroid was the music. While Prime 3 still has its eery points, I found myself taken aback by all the horns and string music. I understand that I'm an old sod waxing nostalgic about memories rather than just enjoying the game for what it is. But it's inevitable that a franchise is powerful largely because of its nostalgic value. In the end, the music is good, but it sounds more like every other game, whereas the game itself feels unlike any other game out there. The contrast is a touch disappointing to me. Are we to expect the franchise to get even more commercial? Perhaps a chess offshoot with Chozo vs Metroid?

Pointless lamenting aside (yes, I'm having trouble dropping my nostalgic expectations), I am happy to say that Metroid Prime 3's new control setup works great. The main thing I dislike about FPS' is having to aim with an analog stick. Now you just point and shoot, it's incredibly natural and rewarding. I no longer feel like I have to log in 20 hours of gameplay before I get decent at the controls.

Graphically I don't see too much of an upgrade over the GameCube version, but then I don't usually pay attention to graphics unless the graphics make a point of grabbing my attention.

Without spoiling anything, I'm really enjoying the story so far. The game finally makes a break from the past and gives you a new story and method of delivery. It's definitely fresh for the series and rewarding for those of you who've been following the game for awhile.

If you haven't already, I urge you to rush out and get Metroid Prime 3. Try to ignore all the screenshots and trailers, don't read anything else about it. The game has always had a unique vibe to it, and by keeping everything fresh, you'll be rewarded with a much richer experience.

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