Metroid Prime 2: Echoes

Genre: Platformer/FPS
Developer: Retro Studios
Platform: Nintendo Gamecube
Release: 2004
Rating: T

- Graphics -

Oh man, this is just gorgeous. Such high detail, both in polygons and textures, to an almost unheard-of level! The atmospheric effects brought the entire world to life, too; Dark Aether was one of the most stressful places I've ever been in a game, and not all of that was the atmospheric hazards.

Graphics: 10/10


- Story -

After blowing up Tallon IV (in Metroid Prime), Samus is apparently flying around when she receives another distress signal. After landing on the unstable Planet Aether, she discovers that Phazon has corrupted the planet itself to the point of existing in two dimensions at once. The Luminoth, the primary sentient race on the planet, are in stasis cocoons to preserve their race, with one exception: Their last surviving Sentinal. Samus fights the Ing, the inhabitants of "Dark Aether", and gets to blow up planets.

Story: 6/10


- Gameplay -

Oh man, where to begin! Dark Aether was a wonderful rendition of gaming's "alternate worlds" traditions, on a level I've not seen quite achieved since A Link to the Past (and surpassing it). The concept of a world that could harm you by simply standing in it is something I've honestly never seen before in a game. Dark Aether's toxic atmosphere forces players to use speed, skill, and strategy to navigate the world. The light crystals and light beacons become less and less common later in the game, so effective dodging and fighting become crucial for survival. Of course, several arsenal additions along the way help, and by the very end you've thankfully got a suit immune to the effects.

Another concept I really loved was the sub-guardians. These bosses, after stealing Samus' arsenal in an early cutscene, actually attack her with her own weapons! They were well thought-out, and some were wonderfully difficult as well.

The only complaint I have is the amount of backtracking due to four different areas each having two versions... So many hidden missile expansions x_x

Gameplay: 9/10


- Music -

I must admit I was a bit disappointed by Echoes' soundtrack. While the atmosphere was wonderfully enhanced, It simply just isn't as fun to listen to in many places. Agon and the Temple Grounds are good examples of this.

Music: 5/10


Total Score: 7.5/10

Also available for Wii in Metroid Prime: Trilogy