Metroid Prime 4 is one of my most anticipated games… along with many other fans of the Metroid series, which have enjoyed a long and storied history from Metroid since its debut on the NES back in 1986.
The Metroid Prime subseries began in 2002, and the three prior games have been met with critical acclaim for their captivating storylines, immersive gameplay, and unique environments. While Metroid Prime 4's release date STILL remains unknown, I’ve been speculating about the potential storylines, building on the events from the first three games.
In this article, I’ll explore the possible plotlines for Metroid Prime 4, taking into account the previous game's storylines.
Metroid Prime Metroid Prime, the first game in the series, introduced players to the first-person adventure format on GameCube (and more recently, gloriously remade for the Nintendo Switch). The story follows the protagonist, Samus Aran, as she investigates the planet Tallon IV. She discovers a dangerous substance known as Phazon, which has been wreaking havoc on the planet and its inhabitants. Samus faces off against various creatures and Space Pirates, ultimately confronting the titular Metroid Prime, which has been mutated by Phazon.
Metroid Prime 2: Echoes The second installment in the series, Metroid Prime 2: Echoes, takes place on the planet Aether. Samus is sent on a mission to investigate the disappearance of a Galactic Federation squad. The story revolves around the battle between the Luminoth and the Ing, two opposing factions fighting for control of Aether. Samus learns that the planet has been split into two dimensions, Light Aether and Dark Aether, due to a Phazon meteor impact. She works to restore balance to the planet and defeats the Ing's leader, Emperor Ing, and Dark Samus, a Phazon-corrupted doppelganger of herself.
Metroid Prime 3: Corruption The third game, Metroid Prime 3: Corruption, expands on the threat of Phazon. The Galactic Federation's Aurora Units are being infected with a Phazon-based virus, and Samus is tasked with finding a cure. During her mission, she discovers the origin of Phazon: the sentient planet, Phaaze. Samus becomes partially corrupted by Phazon but manages to defeat Dark Samus and the corrupted Aurora Unit 313, stopping the spread of Phazon throughout the galaxy and ultimately destroying Phaaze.
Metroid Prime 4: Cataclysm (sure, I’ll take a stab at a title)
With the Phazon storyline seemingly resolved in Metroid Prime 3, Metroid Prime 4 could explore new avenues or perhaps tie up loose ends from the previous games. Here are a few potential storylines:
Sylux and Samus' Rivalry: In Metroid Prime: Hunters and Metroid Prime 3's secret ending, a mysterious character named Sylux is seen following Samus. Sylux has a deep hatred for the Galactic Federation and Samus by extension. Metroid Prime 4 could delve into the history and motivations behind this enigmatic character and further develop their rivalry with Samus.
The Chozo Civilization: The Chozo are an ancient, highly advanced bird-like race that played a significant role in Samus' upbringing and the Metroid series' lore. The Chozo have been responsible for many of the power-ups and technology Samus uses throughout her missions. Metroid Prime 4 could explore the remnants of the Chozo civilization, uncovering the reasons for their decline and their connection to the Metroid species.
A New Threat: With Phazon no longer a threat, Metroid Prime 4 could introduce a new, formidable enemy or a new hazardous substance that poses a danger to the galaxy. This could push Samus to her limits and force her to adapt to new challenges, uncovering hidden secrets and technology along the way.
The Return of the Metroids: While the titular creatures were not the central focus of the Prime trilogy, Metroid Prime 4 could bring the Metroids back to the forefront. This could involve exploring their origins, uncovering new types of Metroids, or dealing with a resurgence of their population that threatens the galaxy.
The Space Pirates: The Space Pirates have been recurring antagonists throughout the Metroid series, and Metroid Prime 4 could further develop their storyline. The game could delve into their hierarchy, explore their motivations, and potentially reveal a new leader who poses an even greater threat than before.
Metroid Prime 4 has huge potential to take players on another incredibly immersive adventure, building on the rich history of the previous games. Whether the game explores the rivalry between Samus and Sylux, delves into the mysteries of the Chozo civilization, or introduces a new threat to the galaxy, fans are eager to see what the next chapter holds for Samus Aran.
Only time will tell what direction the developers at Retro Studios will take, but there's no doubt that Metroid Prime 4 will be a thrilling addition to this beloved series.
And I for one… can’t wait!
~Smash
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