Metroid Prime 2, seeing is believing.

[Gadfly2317]

I've heard rumors about this game, but I hadn't seen any thing official, or any screenshots. Normally I hate Nintendo Power magazine (I hate all official magazines, biased pieces of garbage.) But they do have their place. . . which is seeing lots of early, quality screenshots.

The E3 sneakpeak had no words. . . it was just a collage of a couple dozen photos of games N will be showing. . . they didn't even say what the games were, I guess you were just supposed to know. Anyway, there were shots of an upcoming Paper Mario (looks great) Pikmin 2, Resident Evil 4, an RPG I didn't recognize, Zelda 4 Swords (not impressed. . . it's the Crystal Chronicles 4GBA gimmick with Link). I've gotta say, I'm actually impressed as hell with the look of Paper Mario. . .I heard the N64 game was great, but I never played it. OK, that out of the way, back to the real and important point: LOTS OF METROID SCREENSHOTS.

What can we learn from these shots? First, the rumor that the game is in 3rd person or 2D is false. It still sports the First Person interface with that wonderful, wonderful visor.

It still has the great 3-D rotatable Map System, which is the best map system I've ever used in any game, period.

There are some seriously ugly looking enemies, and these aren't even the bosses. God, I pray this game is actually at a playable stage at E3, and that there is significant video footage. This intelligent, atmospheric, historic puzzle filled series almost makes me forget about that twitchy, repetive, hall-way ridden blastathon that is so popular on my other console. Let us all pause for a moment of silence, and pray that Metroid Prime 2 come out in 2004.

Screenshot with Samus suspended in the air in a glowing ball of light. What is this? I'm hoping some stargate style transporter to move you to far away area's of the game to cut down on the wandering around on foot.

And finally, the multi-player rumors. Screenshot with 4 player split screen, shows you can use Morph Ball in multiplayer, and everyone is playing as a version of Samus. . .Orange Samus, Silver Samus, Platinum Samus. . . you get the idea. What I don't know, and am hoping for, is that you can play as some of these creepy space pirates. And if not that, hopefully in multi-player combat there are other enemies to kill besides just your human oponents so you can compete not just on killing each other, but racking up total kill scores (yes, as I've mentioned, I a huge fan of Time Splitters 2 multi-player system.) Regardless, I've always seen this series as the epic adventure of a lonley hero. Multi-player is great for some games, and adds replay, but at this point I'm looking forward to the attempt, but still skeptical until I know more.

Overall, this game is climbing to the top of my most-anticipated list.

[no.1gamer]

I've heard rumors about this game, but I hadn't seen any thing official, or any screenshots. Normally I hate Nintendo Power magazine (I hate all official magazines, biased pieces of garbage.) But they do have their place. . . which is seeing lots of early, quality screenshots.

The E3 sneakpeak had no words. . . it was just a collage of a couple dozen photos of games N will be showing. . . they didn't even say what the games were, I guess you were just supposed to know. Anyway, there were shots of an upcoming Paper Mario (looks great) Pikmin 2, Resident Evil 4, an RPG I didn't recognize, Zelda 4 Swords (not impressed. . . it's the Crystal Chronicles 4GBA gimmick with Link). I've gotta say, I'm actually impressed as hell with the look of Paper Mario. . .I heard the N64 game was great, but I never played it. OK, that out of the way, back to the real and important point: LOTS OF METROID SCREENSHOTS.

I don't think Nintendo has officially announced Metroid Prime's sequel. Instead some people who are in the loop have said that it will be announced at E3. Almost everything up to this point I think is just rumors though.

It will probably not even be called "Metroid Prime 2." At least I hope not, because that title would suck. Hopefully they can think of another creative name that's as cool as Metroid Prime.

What can we learn from these shots? First, the rumor that the game is in 3rd person or 2D is false. It still sports the First Person interface with that wonderful, wonderful visor.

It still has the great 3-D rotatable Map System, which is the best map system I've ever used in any game, period.

I agree with you there. This is good news for me as well.

There are some seriously ugly looking enemies, and these aren't even the bosses. God, I pray this game is actually at a playable stage at E3, and that there is significant video footage. This intelligent, atmospheric, historic puzzle filled series almost makes me forget about that twitchy, repetive, hall-way ridden blastathon that is so popular on my other console. Let us all pause for a moment of silence, and pray that Metroid Prime 2 come out in 2004.

Screenshot with Samus suspended in the air in a glowing ball of light. What is this? I'm hoping some stargate style transporter to move you to far away area's of the game to cut down on the wandering around on foot.

Metroid Prime's sequel in 2004? That's a long shot, but would be great nevertheless.

And finally, the multi-player rumors. Screenshot with 4 player split screen, shows you can use Morph Ball in multiplayer, and everyone is playing as a version of Samus. . .Orange Samus, Silver Samus, Platinum Samus. . . you get the idea. What I don't know, and am hoping for, is that you can play as some of these creepy space pirates. And if not that, hopefully in multi-player combat there are other enemies to kill besides just your human oponents so you can compete not just on killing each other, but racking up total kill scores (yes, as I've mentioned, I a huge fan of Time Splitters 2 multi-player system.) Regardless, I've always seen this series as the epic adventure of a lonley hero. Multi-player is great for some games, and adds replay, but at this point I'm looking forward to the attempt, but still skeptical until I know more.

Overall, this game is climbing to the top of my most-anticipated list.

Yea, I hope that the multiplayer isn't just a shoot anything that moves traditional FPS multiplayer. Hopefully Retro Studios can give us an original multiplayer experience.

[Gadfly2317]

Yeah, Metroid Prime 2 would be a stupid title. "Prime" meaning "one" or "first" essentially.

[Gadfly2317]

Check out the info posted at Planetgamecube about this game. Also, go check out the screenshots they have. Looking SWEET.

http://www.planetgamecube.com/previews.cfm?action=profile&id=292

Last updated: 04/23/2004 by Jonathan Metts

Metroid Prime 2's blowout at E3 is only a few weeks away now, but Nintendo of America has released a tiny dose of information and the first online screenshots, including some new ones that haven't been seen in the early magazine exclusives.

Perhaps the biggest news is the new subtitle. The game is now known as Metroid Prime 2: Echoes, though the name could still be tentative. NOA's initial report notes that Samus will be traveling to a planet split into light and dark worlds, perhaps not unlike Hyrule in A Link to the Past. Samus is being pursued by a mysterious entity, perhaps the character who seems to have his own power suit, as well as a new alien race called the Ing.

NOA's information also briefly describes the multiplayer mode, saying that players will be able to search for weapons, use the grappling beam to swing across the ceiling, and go into Morph Ball mode for a quick escape. None of this is particularly new or surprising, except that it seems the Metroid staple of weapon upgrades will be incorporated into multiplayer.

The first brand new screenshot is taken from a cutscene. Samus is standing in a corridor, holding out her right (blaster) arm...which is charged with so much energy that it almost looks on fire. If something dramatic is happening to her blaster during a cutscene, it may have to do with an upgrade or some kind of malfunction. From the heroine's stance, it's not clear whether or not she's pleased at what is happening.

The other newly revealed screenshot is less ambiguous. It shows Samus in Morph Ball mode, rolling along a rail on the ground in an outdoor area. From the ball's limited perspective, the environment looks similar to Tallon IV's Chozo Ruins in the first Metroid Prime. The really interesting element in this screenshot is the lower-right corner of the HUD, which indicates that there are C-stick options in Morph Ball mode. This feature might allow you to select among different types of bombs, or to toggle Spider Ball mode without having to hold a button the entire time. It could be used for some upgrade that we've never seen. In any case, the designers have clearly made some kind of change to the Morph Ball, either in control interface or with brand new gameplay elements.

We'll have more updates as soon as new information becomes available!



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Last updated: 04/14/2004

Discuss it in TalkBack

The latest issue of Game Informer Magazine contains the first published screens of Metroid Prime 2 for the Nintendo GameCube. While Nintendo did not provide Game Informer with any information, an analysis of the screens reveals some juicy details and spurs speculation.

First, Metroid Prime 2 will feature the four-player split-screen gameplay previously rumored. One screenshot displays four differently-colored Samuses (or Samus look-alikes) in what appears to be a death match mode. The multiplayer mode retains many of Metroid Prime's features, including multiple visors, missiles, and morph ball capabilities. A large number can be found in the inner corner of each player's screen, though its meaning is not apparent from the screenshot, which does include health meters.


Also of note are the changes in HUD design for Metroid Prime 2. Although the basic layout has remained the same, aspects have been altered to accommodate new information. Metroid Prime 2 still features a map in the upper-right corner of the screen and radar in the upper-left corner. However, the map is not present in multiplayer, and the radar is still displayed when using the morph ball. Retro Studios has also reinvented its missile gauge, replacing the single sliding bar with a 2x5 grid of boxes. Only the bottom two boxes are filled, suggesting either that each box holds about 20 missiles or that Metroid Prime 2 may feature multiple types of missiles. The energy gauge has also been modified: the single-player screen sports six vertical bars, two of which are grayed out, almost certainly representing energy tanks. The amount of energy left in the current energy tank is displayed in a two-digit counter, as dictated by Metroid tradition. Retro has redone the visor and beam icons in color, though the interface remains the same.


The game features graphics enhanced with even more visual flair. In the same single-player screen, an enemy, likely a Space Pirate, features detailed textures and impressive modeling. Another screen, likely taken from a cut-scene, is centered on what looks like a giant three-headed worm. Yet another screen in the magazine shows Samus floating in mid-air, surrounded by a bubble reflecting her image. The bubble is contained within a metal ring, suggesting it is either some sort of teleportation or power-up device.


Finally, one screenshot introduces a new character wearing a grey suit strangely similar to Samus's own and shooting downward toward the camera. Have the pirates finally cracked the secret of Samus's power suit? It looks quite possible!


Official details on Metroid Prime 2 will be revealed during Nintendo's pre-E3 press conference.


Michael "TYP" Cole, Staff Writer

[no.1gamer]

I hope the multiplayer isn't just tacked on to the game to say it supports 4 players. The whole Metroid series seems to not be multiplayer friendly. It's an adventure game like Zelda, but without the socializing with villagers.

I'm not doubting Retro Studio here. It just seems like their talent could have been used to design another game in the Nintendo franchise stable. I just think that there are too many sequels to video games now days.

Wait why am I complaining? They're designing the sequel to this generations best game! Of course it will be great! In fact after it's released Metroid Prime 2 will probably be this generation's new best game!

[Gadfly2317]

Have you played Time Splitters 2 on GC? I know you game PC so probably do your FPS there, but TS2 is just 14 new now for GC. The story mode is incoherent and doesn't take long, but this game is FUN. You can play the story in Co-op, which is great, and Split screen is NO problem at all with this.

[Gadfly2317]

I hope the multiplayer isn't just tacked on to the game to say it supports 4 players. The whole Metroid series seems to not be multiplayer friendly. It's an adventure game like Zelda, but without the socializing with villagers.

I'm not doubting Retro Studio here. It just seems like their talent could have been used to design another game in the Nintendo franchise stable. I just think that there are too many sequels to video games now days.

Wait why am I complaining? They're designing the sequel to this generations best game! Of course it will be great! In fact after it's released Metroid Prime 2 will probably be this generation's new best game!


I'm curious to see how the multi-player turns out, but that's not why I play Metroid. I know mental defectives say things like "halo's better because it has multi-player" but that makes no sense. You have to judge a game on the experience it sets out to give you. An epic, solitary, puzzle-solving, platforming First Person adventure filled with atmosphere, killer bosses, and stunning graphics. Metroid Prime did its own thing, and it did it well. If they really are adding multi-player because they had a great idea for it, and it makes sense, and it is fun to play, then I'm all for it. I hope its not tacked on just because people think they are competing with other FPS and need multi-player.

I'm looking forward to TIme Splitters III for multi-player. And frankly TS2 and even Perfect Dark had better multi-player in a sense than Halo did. . . Halo had system link, but there's nothing like the 150+ character selections and dozens of side modes, arcade modes, death matches.

Sorry to get off topic sorta, but when it comes to multi-player first person, I just don't see the point to Metroid needing it.

[no.1gamer]

I'm curious to see how the multi-player turns out, but that's not why I play Metroid. I know mental defectives say things like "halo's better because it has multi-player" but that makes no sense. You have to judge a game on the experience it sets out to give you. An epic, solitary, puzzle-solving, platforming First Person adventure filled with atmosphere, killer bosses, and stunning graphics. Metroid Prime did its own thing, and it did it well. If they really are adding multi-player because they had a great idea for it, and it makes sense, and it is fun to play, then I'm all for it. I hope its not tacked on just because people think they are competing with other FPS and need multi-player.

I'm looking forward to TIme Splitters III for multi-player. And frankly TS2 and even Perfect Dark had better multi-player in a sense than Halo did. . . Halo had system link, but there's nothing like the 150+ character selections and dozens of side modes, arcade modes, death matches.

Sorry to get off topic sorta, but when it comes to multi-player first person, I just don't see the point to Metroid needing it.

No man, I completely agree with you. I don't understand why any Metroid game should have a multiplayer in it. Maybe it isn't the traditional "shoot your opponent" multiplayer. Maybe there will be some adventure and puzzle solving involved. We'll really just have to wait and see.

Perhaps we're being to skeptical here. Maybe the multiplayer is going to be well thought out and super fun. Remember how crazy we went when Retro Studios said Metroid Prime was going to be first person! Heh. Now I'm claiming that it's the best game on the Gamecube! Hmmm...

:)

[no.1gamer]

Have you played Time Splitters 2 on GC? I know you game PC so probably do your FPS there, but TS2 is just 14 new now for GC. The story mode is incoherent and doesn't take long, but this game is FUN. You can play the story in Co-op, which is great, and Split screen is NO problem at all with this.

Yea, I played Time Splitters on the PS2 (before the GCN and Xbox launch). And I've played Time Splitters 2 on the GCN. I don't have it now (I must have rented it or something). TS2 is the best FPS on the Gamecube IMO.

The team that made Timesplitters 1&2 is made from the Goldenye/Perfect Dark team. I guess they left Rare (along with other employees) after the N64 era ended. I of course have played Goldeneye and Perfect Dark on the N64 as well.

[no.1gamer]

Here is a quote from Gamespot and the link:

"Metroid Prime 2: Echoes Multiplayer Hands-On


One of the biggest, most obvious enhancements that Metroid Prime 2: Echoes is making is the addition of four-player competitive multiplayer. The split-screen game has made its debut here on the show floor at E3 2004, and we've taken a look at the game's currently available modes.

The demo on the show floor contains one map, called Sidehopper Station. This space station has open areas with some cover, making it good for wide-open firefights. There are also quite a few corridors, as well as launchers that will fire your character, in ball form, from one side of the station to the other at lightning speed.

At its core, the control in Metroid Prime 2's multiplayer mode is the same as its single-player counterpart. You still lock onto targets with the L trigger, get to freelook and aim with the R trigger, and toggle between your different beams with the C stick. When you spawn, you're only armed with the normal power beam and when in ball form, bombs. But you'll quickly find missiles laying around the map. There are also better weapons and additional beams to pick-up, so you'll also be able to acquire things like power missiles and bombs, the dark beam, the light beam, and so on. On top of all of that, temporary power-ups are located in a few spots. Entering one of these question-marked circles will give you something like unlimited rockets or beam energy, invisibility, massive damage, and more.

On paper, the thought of a competitive first-person shooter with easy-to-use lock-on capabilities sounds like a really terrible idea. Part of the skillset that makes first-person shooters fun in a competitive environment is having to aim and time your shots just right to hit your enemies. Metroid Prime 2 dodges a bullet here, as from what we've seen so far, the game is still fun even with the ability to lock-on. The map on display has plenty of cover to hide behind, and even plain old strafing is enough to dodge a great deal of incoming fire. Missiles seem to do a better job of hitting your targets, but you're limited on missile ammo. Rolling up into a ball and dropping bombs near an ongoing battle is also a nice tactic, as players don't tend to notice the bombs until it's too late.

There are two modes currently available in the game. Deathmatch is exactly what you'd expect, with a timer that counts down the match and the winner is the player with the most kills at the end. Bounty mode is a little different. It's still time-based, but you must collect coins to score. Coins pop out of players when they're shot up and come in one and ten-point variations. The winner is the player with the most coins at the end.

Graphically, the game looks on-par with the first Metroid Prime, and the game runs at a really smooth speed, even when the screen is split four ways for multiplayer action. Between the new single-player adventure and this new multiplayer component, fans of the original game should find a lot to like in Metroid Prime 2: Echoes. The game is currently scheduled to hit shelves in November."

Gamespot Link (http://www.gamespot.com/gamecube/action/metroidprime2tentativetitle/preview_6098127.html)

So they claim that it IS the typical FPS multiplayer. They also said that the game even manages to run at a steady framerate with 4 player split screen. That's impressive considering it's still an early version of the game. Perhaps we'll be playing Metroid Prime 2: Echoes before this year is out.

:cool: