Game Informer Magazine provides a first glimpse into Metroid Prime 2's new features, including multiplayer
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 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.
Topic: Metroid Prime 2 Preview (Read 6930 times)
