This morning, I was met with devastating news, Nintendo had to delay the release of Metroid Prime 4, but more then that, they are starting completely over on the development process. While I never had the opportunity to play the original trilogy, I was super excited to play this newest entry of the series. But then I started to think and realize that, in a way, this could be a very good thing.
Reason 1: Nintendo cares about their fans. When Shinya announced the delay and the reasons for the delay, I could see the sadness and hurt in his eyes. They don’t take delays lightly, they want to do right by fans and only delay a game when absolutely necessary. This suggests to me that the game would, maybe not be bad, but not live up to the hype it had. And that, as we’ve learned from games like No Man’s Sky, can kill a game.
Reason 2: Previous track records. There are two other situations that come to immediate memory when I think about Nintendo delaying highly anticipated games. The first is Super Smash Brothers Brawl. While some people did not like the combat in comparison to melee, it was still highly successful and brought with it one of the best story modes a fighting game of this caliber I have ever seen, Subspace Emissary. Regardless of how people felt about the game itself, the story and cut-scenes were gorgeous and a celebration of Nintendo. The second game is Breath of the Wild. And what was the result of these delays? One of the best games in the Zelda franchise period. So when Metroid is delayed, yes I’m hurt at the delay, but more then anything, I’m excited for what is to come.
Reason 3: Metroid is coming back home. One of the concerns I heard constantly was that Retro Studios was not in charge of the newest Metroid Prime game, and they were its creators. Fans were scared that the new one would not live up to the standards set by the previous games. Now, Nintendo, in starting over, is working with Retro Studios to ensure, in Shinya’s words, that it will “stand shoulder to shoulder with the past….titles.”
Due to these three reasons, I take this announcement with joy. Yes, I am sad and disappointed, but I have joy and confidence that this will work out for the best.
