Agreed on the EMMIs particularly. I think what ruined it for me the most with them was that the chances to parry when you got caught had such random and tight timing that it's pretty much impossible to learn. I spent a couple hours going into an EMMI zone to get deliberately caught and practice the parries, and even after all that practice I wasn't improving much, and was at best getting a parry one in 20 chances (10 encounters, 2 chances to parry when you get caught). I wouldn't mind the tight timing so much as the fact that there really isn't much in the way of indicators - by the time you see the flash and hear the "ching!" noise, you've already missed your chance. Your button press has to pretty much be simultaneous with what ostensibly should be the indicator. I understand making the EMMI encounters difficult, but it could have been done in such a way that players could still improve. Maybe have 3-4 different indicators for the beginning of the sequence, and the timing is different for each, so the player has to be able to quickly identify which timing to use for the parry. Maybe have each EMMI have different indicators, so you have to learn each individually. Things like that would go a long way to making the "dread" sections exciting rather than tedious.
Having beaten the game, maybe seven or eight times at this point I rather enjoyed those encounters. Since they’re random, you’re not really supposed to learn them. You’re supposed to avoid the EMMI in the first place and only hope that if you get caught you, you can get out. You can learn the bosses and you can learn every single enemy in the game except for that timing, so no matter how much you try, you will almost always fail. But not always. I feel like it’s almost an instinct that you’re relying upon. I Especially felt that way after countering an Emmy getting trapped again and then countering it a second time within the span of 10 seconds. I really enjoyed those encounters.
Dread is my game of the year. I can understand some people not liking it, but nothing feels as good as mastering the controls and motions in this game. It rewards mastery, and that feels great.
I agree for the most part but using the grapple beam, the omega cannon, and swapping between missiles while aiming to moving was really clunky. You end up holding 3 buttons at once while using the control stick. At very least they should have streamlined it a little or at least made missiles a toggle like they used to be. Still it's my favorite Metroid game and mastering it feels good even if a handful of actions are clunkier than they should have been.
Dread as game of the year? Must be a poor year for games. Because when you think where Dread ranks in the greatest metroidvanias ever made, it doesn't even get close to getting in the top 20.
I've been a Metroid fan since Super back in 94. I love this new entry in the series, but I'll admit there were some changes I'd appreciate with the controls. I disagree with most of her critiques, but they are valid points that she's making. After watching this review and the previous one on Super Metroid, I wouldn't say that she is a fan of the series, and that's fine. I'm still a fan of her channel. Every game is not for everybody.
In my honest opinion, Metroid Dread is up there with Super and Prime 1 when it comes to my Top 3 Favorite Metroid games. So glad to see how much MercurySteam has been knocking it out of the park lately with Metroid, and how well the game has been selling. I think it deserves all the love it gets and I’ve honestly yet to play a game that I loved more this year. I couldn’t disagree more with a lot you said about the game though. If you don’t like the substantial amount of lure and detail from the cutscenes, you can always skip them like it’s nothing, the level design is brilliant and strikes a fine balance when it comes to giving you a lot to explore without ever feeling like you’re getting hand-holded or lost (unless you’re David Jaffe) because of how well the game handles its backtracking (making it all the more rewarding when you’re finally able to revisit areas as you obtain upgrades), the environments are beautifully distinct, detailed, and how each area of the game starts to look more and more breathtaking when you’re reaching the surface is amazingly-executed, the E.M.M.I’s really added a lot to the progression of the game when it comes to how you work your way around each one (depending on the upgrades you get overtime) and overcoming them each time is super satisfying, and the overall game more than justifies its $60 price tag when it comes to being a full-fledged Metroid game with tons of replay value. Also, I have no idea what version of the game you’ve been listening to btw. Because the OST for Metroid Dread is by far one of my favorites in the franchise and is absolutely amazing to listen to. I have tons of favorites in it whether it’d be because of how distinct, memorable, or atmospheric it is. As a music composer myself, I absolutely loved the music in this game.
I’m glad you liked it. But you cannot just skip the cutscenes, that is not an option given. And I think it’s quite ugly and the map is poorly designed. But that on is a meter of opinion.
@@Cannotbetamed1 If you press the + button and then the - button, it should always allow you to skip cutscenes at a moments notice. Even whenever Adam’s monologuing, mash A and it should take less than 3 to 5 seconds to skip everything.
@@Cannotbetamed1 it did take me a bit to understand the map as the map Super Metroid introduced was used in many other games in the genre with little changes, this game shook things up more and once I knew what I wa slooking at, I really liked it. The telport color coordinated icons confused me at first.
@@randomizer2240 Your opinion is worthless to me. It's regarded as one of the best games in all Metroidvania. I guess you just have really bad tastes, because myself and millions of others love Hollow Knight. I also think Dread is one of the worst Metroid games in the entire series, so it's pointless talking to someone like you.
As a fan of exploration, the E.M.M.I. sections were a negative for me. The game also blocks off previous paths which made it much more linear & to return to places you had to find longer alternative routes, it was pretty frustrating as someone who doesn't enjoy missing things. The control configuration to perform later movement upgrades was clumsy & you had to pull off some awkward button sequences (some too difficult) to get to collectables. The graphics were good & the surroundings, while bland, fit the setting. I recommend using the easier difficulty mode for slightly more generous item drops from enemies & bosses.
Concise and very well rounded review. Great details and explanations of technical/literary issues and the like. Keep up the great work, Cannot be Tamed!
Metroid fans have a reputation for being extremely rational and mature. We can tolerate an alternate perspective with grace and poise, especially from a seasoned and respected critic of Metroidvanias such as yourself. I’m not furious at all! People are allowed to criticise Metroid Dread!! *Reported for crimes against humanity and me personally*
@@John-996 but let's be honest, his point was fucking shit. This video is a good and rational critique. Jaffe is just acting like a child in those videos
Nah, in my experience Metroid fans are one of the loudest and most unreasonable bunch I've ever experienced in a Nintendo fanbase. If word gets around about this video you'll see an influx of Dread fans rushing in here to downvote the video without even watching it. In fact, I'm pretty sure some of that has already happened considering there's over 700 dislikes at the time of me posting this. Now, I agree that people like YOURSELF are mature and rational, but you clearly aren't representative of the entire Metroid fanbase (well, not the one I've witnessed).
I appreciate a dissenting opinion. Some of these I even agree with, like the lack of control with a D-pad and the abundance of unskippable cutscenes toward the beginning. I don't think either of those issues hinder the game all that much though, especially since the game was very much designed with the control stick in mind and cutscenes are basically a non-issue on replays. However, I very much disagree with the idea that the areas are forgettable or sterile. I've only played the game three times, compared to over a dozen for Super Metroid and most other Metroid games, but I found the areas to be very distinctive visually. Ferenia and Burenia are some of the coolest looking areas in any Metroid game. An elegant Chozo temple and an abandoned biological research lab, on top of the lush and naturalistic Ghavoran, which you mentioned. I also disagree with some of the map design complaints. While it's true that the path forward is almost always telegraphed via the teleportals, they don't normally lock you out of going to other areas for more upgrades. The best example I can think of is that once you get the Morph Ball, you are incentivized to go to get the Varia suit in Artaria with a teleportal. But you can still go back to the other rooms you missed manually, and you will eventually make it back to Artaria anyway, so the way I see it the devs just did you a favor and saved the player some time. There's only 2 or 3 moments where they actually force you into a certain area. Plus, they designed a TON of sequence breaks into the map for those that are paying extra close attention. I even discovered a few of them on accident, like getting Cross Bombs before the Screwattack and getting the Scan Pulse way earlier than intended. Also, I think the fact that bosses hit so hard makes it more necessary to find more upgrades, since every one increases your chance of survival. It's less of a "I'm even harder to kill" and more of a "Now I can survive a little easier." As for the EMMIs, it's really a matter of taste. I love the fear factor that they introduce in the game and the areas are designed really well to give you multiple routes for escape. I don't disagree that they make the game "less fun," but I also don't think they were meant to be fun. They were meant to create tension and give the player a feeling of satisfaction and relief when they are finally done with the area. It's frustration used as a motivation to get better at the game, which is the kind of shit I adore. Totally understandable why someone wouldn't love them, though. Music is generally forgettable in terms of the tunes, but I think they are great for setting the mood for each area. It's like Norfair's theme in Super Metroid. It's more impactful in making the area feel dangerous, but not very interesting to listen to by itself. Value is such a subjective thing. I think it's worth it for being a brand new game with high production quality and being very polished. I don't care much about length when it comes to value, especially when a game is as replayable as something like Metroid. In the end, it's up to the person to determine if it's worth it for them. But broad statements are hard to justify, on either end. And yeah, Hollow Knight is definitely worth more money than it's being sold for. Game slaps. Cool video. I'm sad to hear you didn't enjoy it as much as I did, but I am glad you had your well-thought out reasons.
And thank you for the well thought out response. When it comes to cost, it's not really that I don't think this is worth $60, it's that a lot of other much cheaper games should be worth $60 as well.
I'm going to be honest here: I am not at all used to controlling a 2D character with the analog stick, and before I played the game, I was bummed that there would not be an option to play with the d-pad... But then I actually started controlling Samus in this game. To say that the controls are buttery smooth is an understatement.
This game really gave me a great sense of accomplishment which I rarely feel in games. It was just difficult enough for me to briefly get stuck at times, which I actually enjoy in games like this and Zelda because I have to use my brain. The 100% item upgrades is designed to be difficult and I'm impressed with myself for finding them all on my own. Overall the whole atmosphere and gameplay was ideal for someone like me.
I loved Samus Returns but here is why I didnt enoy Dread nearly as much: 1: where are the fast travel? there are teleports who bring you to one specific place but no fast traver, it was present in Samus Returns, why remove it? this made backtracking a pain in the ass and I never did it. 2: I never really felt free to explore, 70% of paths and upgrades you find are "sorry you dont have this missile type yet, cant enter here" which felt stressful, I know there are many different ways to arrive to proceed but I didnt felt that, I felt like I always only had the possibility to follow one path and that path was confused af, with weird teleports that bringed you across the map etc, like the game was playing me not the opposite 3: the EMMIs: Yes they are original and un-heard from in the genre, I dont even mind escaping, or the fear, it was even cool, but I the thing I like about metroidvanias are taking things slowly and exploring every area, but the EMMI's zones where a big part of the map and I could not explore them, both because it was full of stupid doors that closed and opened in a way I still dont get and also because how can you explore if you must always avoid an unkillable fucker, the thing I did was get out of the EMMI zones as fast as I could and explore the other zones (for the little exploring there was), I felt like I was betraying the sense of metroidvanias. 4: the combat was very cool but it was a bit to easy, I would have prefered if they have the hard mode available at the start. 5: way to many missiles, everywhere, even in bosses, what is the point of the missiles tank upgrades if there are so many anyway, in Samus Returns every missile counted. - Still a good game, at least 7/10 but its not Samus Returns.
Loved the game but agreed on some of your points. The menu map helps alleviate almost all navigation confusion once you learn how to use it effectively. Emmi's need to be less formulaic, as well assome of the level design. Could be more fun and not mainly just stressful. It wasnt terrible, but it could have been better.
As someone who is currently stuck trying to traverse past a late game EMMI, I won't say that they are neither good nor bad. It's an interesting mechanic for sure, but they do lend themselves to being enormously frustrating. Oftentimes, it feels like a roll of a dice what kind of experience you'll have in an EMMI zone. Sometimes they are spawned at a place that basically traps you as soon as they clue in to your location. At the point I'm at (water/purple EMMI), I feel so disadvantaged when trying to evade and have died countless times.
Blue was worse for me. So many times it spawned on the other end of whatever door I approached. One time putting me into that crappy cutscene as the room loaded in.
I agree with you on several points, especially on your EMMI take. Absolutely not fun. Not scary, not fun, just a pace-breaking chore. I honestly have no idea why journalists and TH-camrs find, or pretend to find, that aspect fun.
Look at the dislike ratio. Thats why. This is one of the weakest Metroid games ever made but no ones allowed to criticize it without massive opposition and harassment it seems. The God of War designer thought this game had bad game design and everyone shit on him for it. He's now a meme a literal game designer for one of the best games ever made vs a developer who made 7 and below out of ten games for their whole life until Nintendo put Metroid on the cover. Its a jokr
@@jebril there is plenty wrong with Jaffe's take. One major point being the fact that he has never played a metroid game and didn't understand the concept of hidden blocks. It tells you in the tutorial that hidden blocks were a thing and how to find them, but he says it never tells you. He's getting shit on because he's like a DSP. He's bad at the game and instead of accepting that he should play and get better, he blames the developers. You can criticize the game. There's plenty of criticism. And I see more comments agreeing or peacefully disagreeing with the points in this videos. Quit acting like a victim and lying about hate mobs when the only people getting "hate" and those who have really stupid and hilarious takes.
Pace breaking? You're never going to have a constant pace on your first playthrough of any game. On my second playthrough I fly through emmi zones. So I don't get your Pace breaking argument. People really like the game. You don't have to assume ill will on their part for liking something you don't.
@@MrFRNTIK I’ve been participating in online video game-related discourse for two decades so perhaps I should be used to it, but this comments section is mind boggling. It’s not just people disagreeing, but also thinking that others are lying about their opinions. What the heck happened to just talking about games? Everything has to be inflammatory.
Thank you ! It felt like I was going crazy when this game released, when everybody was calling it the best thing since sliced bread. It's a not a bad game per say, but you said it well: it's meh.
I agree with your review, and I might have been even more critical of Dread. You identified all of my major issues, especially with the map funneling you to the next point and interfering with exploration and power up discovery and how the rewards for power ups don’t feel powerful. Why get more misses and life if the boss encounters don’t require them? I found the bosses to be more head banging than even the E.M.M.I.‘s but understand how some people mastering their mechanics rewarding. Having played the past Metroids I thought I could get more power ups and eventually steam roll them. It’s like this Metroid is stuck in between two design philosophies. The exploration and becoming over powered like the original games and some new version where boss fight mechanics are the most important thing. Each version of those designs conflict with the other which makes for a frustrating game experience. My least favorite Metroid for sure. Great review and analysis!
I appreciate that you poised this as your opinion and not as fact like jaffe did even though your opinion wasn’t anywhere nearly as extreme haha. I disagreed with most of your points although I thought that made sense what you said about missile tanks not being too important to go out of your way for since most enemies drop them. There’s a few boss fights especially the final boss where it can make a difference though. I did think that energy tanks made a huge difference during boss battles whether normal or hard mode. I’ve played this game through 8 times and counting and I believe it did a great job by metroid fans and the genre owes a lot to these games. Thought it was a little nitpicky though I 100% respect that you have your opinion it sounds like it maybe wasn’t just quite for you. I enjoyed the video a lot though and your personality, I was originally annoyed by the title of the video that’s what drew me in haha because I think this game is so fantastic it really does it for me and I find it so engaging for sure. I’ve never come to your channel before but I will come back sometime. I was wondering if it was you playing or not during the clips since you made that comment in the start of the video. Sometimes I get the impression that we have waited so long for new metroid that there are a lot of gamers familiar with the genre but not as much with these titles who I’ve heard a lot of them hit walls with the game and are less satisfied with the experience. There are those that are new that love it too of course though. I personally loved the emmis and found them a fair challenge that are satisfying to kill once possible. I can’t imagine some of my first metroid learning experiences be with emmis though and it is different for the series so I can understand if one doesn’t like those parts. Though I do love them and can now zip through those areas with no problems anymore. The counters are difficult to learn but possible! Each emmi has different timing and I can so see how people find it tough but I thought it was the perfect level. Then again I am obsessed with sekiro on my 18th playthrough lol.. I thought the music was chill, ambient, overall enjoyable but doesn’t get absolutely stuck in my head like other metroid games do, such as super does or zero mission does. I thought it was very enjoyable and funny to see your opinion on some of the lore or characters and your disinterest with it as well as the cutscenes, because for me all of that stuff was in my opinion perfect to me though the one I definitely understand is the intro cutscene, after 7 or 8 times of seeing it it would be nice to be able to skip. Most other cutscenes are skippable though and I thought the counter or blasting interactive cutscenes were a great addition. That’s fair if you didn’t like the exploration in this game, but I think only getting 37% or however much it was you ended up with isn’t the best perspective on the exploration since 100% the game is insanely gratifying and replaying the game to find or try out creative sequence breaks gives it even more life. Wow though. $90 is a lot for a game! I feel for you…. That sucks and especially if the game isn’t for you I can understand some of your reservations with it. I respect your opinion of course personally though I couldn’t be more satisfied with the purchase and I’m unsure the exact amount of time I’ve spent it might be somewhere over 50 hours though. For the enjoyment I’ve gotten out of the game, and the special interconnected labyrinth of a world that I only find in metroid it was definitely very worth it to me for the $60 I spent. Very smart point about how you could get hollow knight ori blasphemous etc for that price and it’s true. In my eyes though, this is the queen of the genre once you’re in love with this game or series with the world design and progression it has to offer, I personally don’t find any other games to do it the same way. I find a level of detail in this games design that isn’t the same in other metroidvanias block by block, area to later accessible area and don’t see it done the same elsewhere. I always respect someone who enjoyed hollow knight more and while that’s a superb game it doesn’t scratch the same itch or offer the same rewarding sensation of progression with an immersive universe like that of metroid. I love the plants and love the dog and I like your attitude about reviewing games I feel it’s respect to cast things as your opinion rather than fact. Saying git gud was perfect lmao. Wish you the best
I don’t think there’s a single dislike on this video and you’re casting a dissenting opinion on a beloved and long awaited classic game? It makes sense to me why, it’s hard not to like you and respect where you’re coming from.
I'm not sure where you're seeing no dislikes, there are almost 1000. But thanks for watching and welcome to the channel! It is me playing in the game footage I used in the video.
So I only played the demo, but for many of the reasons mentioned, it didn't make me want to buy the game. When it was good, it was really good, but the EMMI sequences were just not fun and felt gimmicky. Might pick it up if it goes on sale, but for my money I'd rather play the Ori games
Atmosphere, level map design, graphics, controls, Emmi inclusion, boss battles, story...all top notch for me. Game was amazing! Played and finished every Metroid game since the original on NES. Each to their own I guess :)
Its an ok Metroid game. All of the hype was created by Nintendo so stremers can help sell the game. Way too many bumper button combos felt clunky so many times I would love to have D-pad. The emmi zones are more annoying then scary, when you die there is no consequences you end up at the door, cut scenes are annoying it's Metroid get me in the game so I can start exploring, the music is not that atmosphereic, and the graphics did not put me in isolated and foreign planet that I need to explore and conquer. I felt most rooms were basically a 4 by 4 box format and bland. It's an ok game not better than Super Metroid, not better than prime 1 or 2, not better than fusion, not better than AM2R even and that was a fan made game not even a commerical product.
@@josephcox3091 each to their own....Not better than Super Metroid or Prime for sure but it is great. Disagree with a lot of what you said but that is all good. Happy gaming mate!
@@rickhynes2693 if you like this game I'm not holding it against you, it's a good game, but just an OK Metroid game and considering that it's been a really long time since we have had a NEW 2D Metroid game not remakes, I expected more. I also can't remember any of the songs after playing this game so the sound track compared to other Metroid games like super prime 1 and prime 2. There is nothing scary or overwhelming about this game. I don't like the counter strike feature it takes the fear out of going into a room knowing I can most likely one shot everything from the getgco and if I screw up there is no consiqyences, you can beat this game with out taking any optional save points, dieing and then respawn at the last door you entered takes the fear out of it. The sound track is not good, the colors feel painted back drops not atmospheric I don't feel like the stages are alive and trying to kill me. I don't want to know where every up grade is, take the upgrades off the map it takes the fun out of exploring if you know where everything is, exploring feels more like an optional quest than something rewarding when you know where the secrets are on the map which is not Metroid like. Super Metroid is the best but when you first played it and didn't know anything about the game before hand it really suprised you, it suprised you that Krockalmire had infjnte health bar and the only way to beat him was push him off the ledge, it suprised you that a chozo statue tries to kill you, in prime when you get the ice beam you were really scared with the ghosts, or when you go to the phendrana drifts and the space pirats are invisible and give you that crazy sound track. Like nothing about this game is like that. Metroid is kinda a sci-fi survival horror and exploration, this game only got some elements to this and quite frankly I expect more from Metroid, I hold Metroid up with Zelda I expect a lot and when you have just an OK Metroid game you get a divided fan base, you got the fans that are overly hyped because it's been so long they will accept this game full price and say it's amazing, and then you got fans like me that are very disappointed. The cut scenes are there to help generate those surprise moments but they take me out of the game. I don't want to feel like I'm watching Samus. I want to feel like I am Samus and having all those cut scenes ruins it for me.
I appreciate your opinion and perspective on this game! Nice to see someone saying something besides "Please go out and buy it so we get more Metroid"😂 I'm on the fence about picking it up, but you raised a lot of good points about things I think will bother me too. Maybe I'll hold off a little bit longer to grab it!
6:19 The flash shift is among the most fun movement abilites I've had while playing a 2d platformer. I hope that many more games take inspiration from this since it's just so fun to move around while using that mechanic. Edit: Why is my lame comment praising this game the only upvoted one? Smh
I _know_ I've seen this ability in another game before, but hell if I can come up with where. Was it that one game that guy made himself? Wow, I'm extremely unhelpful.
Woah nelly! You are braver than Samus for your views on this one 😅😆 but, then again, they are your views and yours alone. Whether they are right or wrong, they are genuine. Commendable
This review is straight fire water. I completely disagree, but I love it for the reason I appreciate all of your content. I can tell this is your genuine opinion, and not what the Internet told you your opinion was supposed to be, and I applaud that.
I’m only recently into meroidvanias as my gaming reflexes aren’t what they were (I’m 52!) But I bought this despite failing to finish Metroid and Super Metroid. For me it’s hard! I’m just fighting a giant pig thing in chains and despite said chains he is kicking my butt. I have enjoyed the exploration so far and map markers-plural- is a godsend for me the queen of short term memory loss 😏 Not a fan of the robots either. What happened to Asimov’s Law??? Anyway I want to thank you for getting me into metroidvanias with your video on them. I have bought Blasphemous and I’m reassuringly shit at it, Hollow Knight - which I’m not going too bad in - and Axiom Verge. I’m alive but utterly lost in AV so there must be one of those random destructive walls invisible to the player. I agree, for progression, they suck. Rambling now, love your channel muchly 💛
Remember to try using the address disruptor on everything! (A very weak hint that may not even apply to your current situation in AV, but for me, the one instance where I got really stuck turned out to require the use of the address disruptor.)
I've always enjoyed Metroid Fusion and Metroid Zero Mission on GBA and found them easier to get into than other games of that type. They're considered more linear, but that's a good thing in my book. I find that my favorite Metroidvanias tend to be from Castlevania, so I recommend those if you have not played them yet. Symphony of the Night is amazing. I also love Aria of Sorrow on GBA. The DS Castlevanias are all very good too, though the touch gimmicks in Dawn of Sorrow are super annoying, so I'm going to use a rom hack in the future.
Good luck on the Kraid boss fight! I struggled with the bosses in this game (especially the last one) but I found it satisfying to learn the patterns. Even the last boss isn't too bad after you learn the patterns so just keep trying until you figure it out :3
Wow finally a realistic review that isn't trying to have an agenda, I think people hyping this up, giving it 10/10, calling it game of the year, are feeding into the Nintendo hype. This is a game that supposed to be what defined a genre by which we call it, but those indie games you mentioned have way more refined mechanics and progression that wants you to explore, this game is bang average as far as the genre goes. There's no insensitive to ever 100% the map, and that's literally the most addictive part of a Metroidvania. That said its not a bad game, just a very average one. 6/10.
It’s also possible that people just really like the game. It’s okay if you don’t like it, but don’t try to discredit the many people that do. And Metroid has never been an exploration type of game. It’s intentionally linear. Super Metroid was the same. And it’s not a bad thing.
Strongly disagree, already played through it twice. Next I have to figure out how to sequence break. My only nitpick is the music is mostly ambient but forgetable, best music was the Super Metroid tunes put into cutscenes. Other than that, ranks up there with Super Metroid, SotN, Hollow Knight, Ori 2 as one of the greats in the genre. Bosses are epic, controls are smooth, EMMI's were new along with a few power ups and mechanics.
@@hepzibahhez9965 no, in many ways, its actually better. The use of buttons for like every ability rather than constantly using a separate screen to manage it. I only switched screens for the map. Also the last true new 2D Metroid game was Fusion and that was way more linear than Dread and didn't even let you go back at in certain areas.
It does really guide you along, but honestly it did make it enjoyable. Seems to be the way with modern games to add hand holding. I whole heartedly support this game, I want more of this, loved it. I found the EMMI sections frightening and intense, maybe I’m just a baby.
@@l-wook EMMI sections had good sound design too where you can hear them with the beeping sound effects and then when it spots you it plays that music, which most music in the game is pretty forgettable, but they nailed the sound design on the EMMI sections. I luved this game.
Each, their own. I played Super Metroid around the time it came out on snes, played Metroid 2 afterwards. Played Zero Mission later on and the hell out of Fusion. This game was an absolute fix on the type of gameplay and sequel I waited for years since Fusion and it makes me so happy to see how much positive attention and praise it's received since launch. My 2nd Favorite Metroid of all time. (Super will always be #1).
Your perspective is interesting and totally different than mine. The atmosphere / sound effects and how alive the enemies and world felt made me fall in love instantly. The sound track and effects are top notch, 10 out of 10 for me. It almost felt like I was in an action movie scene with the music at times reminiscent of the Predator or aliens. Fantastic! I also thought the flow of this game was perfect. Never really had to back track to find where I was going or felt lost. It felt open but they guided you very well to the next objective. I agree the Emmis are kinda annoying but very satisfying to get rid of those damn things. Controls are slick but sometimes too many buttons like you said. I will agree with that. Anyway. Thanks for your review!
Yeah, Metroid is massively overrated. No where near a Super Metroid, a 7 out of 10 at best. There were there a few good things, but overall was very janky in a lot of parts of the game. Music is the worst in the series, controls are horrible.
Most of these complaints apply to all Metroid games, in fact some of these things are more of a problem in the old games. She probably wouldn’t like the other Metroid games. Metroid Dread is one of, if not my favorite Metroid game. So I was surprised to hear of these complaints.
I have never understood why Nintendo stopped doing the Player's Choice re-releases at a cheaper price then resumed them late in the 3DS life cycle only to stop them again for the Switch. I haven't played this yet and doubt I will any time soon because I usually only buy Metroid games after a price drop. I think the only Metroid game I ever bought for myself full price was Samus Returns and that was me having the extra money to burn and getting it on a whim
I can respect your opinion for putting out valid points, even though I don't necessarily agree with most of them. Dread is almost the perfect 2d Metroid for me, I have replayed it almost 20 times on Normal mode, 5 times on Hard mode, 10 times on Dread Mode now, and 100%'d it 4 times. One thing I do somewhat agree with, the EMMI don't really feel scary or tense especially after mid game, unlike the SA-X in Fusion which was executed better because you never knew where or when it would pop out and I think overall Fusion has a stronger atmosphere than Dread. I am okay with the music, it seems forgettable but after playing the game a lot and listening to the soundtrack quite a few times I can appreciate it. But other than the points I mentioned I have no gripes with the game at all, they give you a choice to either take the short path, or backtrack your way if you want to. For example, after defeating Experiment Z57, there is a teleportal to the east of the elevator in Cataris which directly takes you to the Screw Attack. Now you can either take that, or now that the areas are unfrozen you can backtrack manually to Artaria, collecting items on the way and get Screw Attack that way. I like that, it's great that the game gives you options like that. And I might be biased because I like to speedrun through these games and oh my lord the game has sooo many sequence breaks (a lot of them are even intentional like early bombs for quick killing Kraid, or getting early Gravity Suit, while the game is open enough where you can toy around with the abilities and get many items out of order). At the end of the day, gameplay is what matters the most to me personally so I'm happy with what I got out of Dread while I can also understand why people wouldn't like some other aspects of the game.
I loved Dread so much that it's a little surprising whenever I hear a lot of negative things said about it. It's pretty easily game of the year for me. Still, you had sensible enough reasons and not every game is going to please everyone. Good video as always.
19:00 I know you don't care about the story much, but there is a reason for that. *_[SPOILER ALERT]_* The reason why "Adam" berates you like that is because after the game starts, that's not Adam. That's the final boss pretending to be him.
@@Cannotbetamed1I'm just now seeing this comment, 2 years later... But I'd be lying if I said I disagreed with you about the codec conversations. Fortunately, they are indeed skippable
I agree with all of this! You hit all the valid points. Emmis ruined it, needed more exploration, music was bland and yes level design just felt mehhh. They put too much resource into the emmi and cutscenes, created kind of a cheap experience. A lil too rushed imo
I finished the game yesterday and since then I have been trying to put my thoughts and feelings into words. These are also my thoughts about the game. The gameplay segments with the EMMIs becomes repetitive after you have beaten the second or the third one, instead interrupting the rest of the game as you have to deal with yet another one. The maps are just very uninteresting and as soon as you pick up a power up that increases you mobility segments of it are locked off until late in the game, making you unable to go for addition missiles or energy tanks that would give slightly more of a fighting chance against the bosses. I also don't like the shift from exploration to combat. I am glad I finished this game with all the collectibles as it means I will not have to play this game again, and I am someone who still starts up Fusion, Zero Mission, or the Prime games from time to time.
Great review, you make great points, zealous fanboys are always annoying dont mind them when honeymoon period is over things will be clear again and your review was great!
lack of atmosphere... "graphics were proficient" completely concur.. soundtrack was not good. I play metroid mostly for the vibe. What they accomplished with the fluid controls and the action though, were very good.
As a person who really loves the game, I find myself disagreeing with your analysis of the environments and the story because I really enjoyed those elements. However, I understand your complaints and I can see why people do not like these when compared to Super Metroid. I do agree with you on some of the abilities in the game and how to control them as that has made the game much more complicated to play. I really appreciate your honest analysis on the game and I am sorry to hear it did not meet your expectations. Looking forward to your next review.
Agreed. I loved Metroid dread. I think the mechanics and controls are sublime. They took every move that’s defines Samus and simply refined them to perfection. She moves so fluidly. And the addition of the air dash is wonderful. I can’t think of a 2D game with better controls than Dread. I can understand why some complain about the environments. They’re not as obviously defined when compared to a game like hollow knight. Each zone is very unique and distinct. But I think dread took a more realistic approach and I can appreciate it. I think my only criticism is it’s short length and lack of things to do after completion (I.e. new game plus, boss rush, etc). But maybe they’ll do a DLC later if the sales are good.
@@derekarnold9 Air dash was introduce on Mega Man X. Close to 30 years now. I don't find that innovative on dashing in midair. Next you know, they will introduce sliding (Mega Man 3) and gliding (super Mario world) on Metroid. Lol. I am going to retry Metroid series again. Starting with Super Metroid and then Zero mission as some people suggested. I couldn't get Metroid back during NES days. I am a Mega Man fan though. It's her critique of the game. I try Zelda Bow and I have harsh words on it because I am also not a fan of Zelda. I compare it to many open worlds that has been there. People blasted my criticisms on it. If you take off the nostalgia feelings and critique by the game itself, then you see the flaws.
Finally, someone else agrees. The game was a solid 8. Matter of fact, a great 8. But NOT 9's and 10's. Edit: For anyone like Pure Evil who seemed confused by my statement of agreeing with Cannot be Tamed yet giving it a score of a great 8, please scroll down to my response to Pure Evil. I hope that clears things.
@@pureevil9496 people can't get themselves into games anymore....but maybe that's not fair....maybe it's because they're now....30-40 years old? Also...we've got decades of games behind us now. The way to overcome it is to make a distinct effort not to be a hypercritical prick. Getting your head in the game as an active player, something kids are able to do effortlessly, is the key to this....as opposed to being some board emperor slouched in a chair expecting the game to instantly induce some orgasm. And people have this fucked up view of numbers. "Meh" is like....a 5/10....or a 6. Fucking 8 means you almost love it!! Obviously, numbers aside....if a person thinks its "meh" they think it's "meh" and they've deprived themselves of an awesome time. Chances are....they don't enjoy much, are pissed at most of what they play, and sadly, think they're tastes represent the upper echelon of the industry and are thus necessary to improve it.
Pure evil...A agree with Cannot be Tamed except for final rate of 6. Now to be perfectly honest, a 6/7 rating IS INITIALLY what I was going to give it. But I had to remind myself to try and judge it from a modern view. Meaning, I game back all the way to the Atari 2600. From then to the PS2, Gamecube, OG XBOX era was when, for me, that gaming was still magical and enthralling. Unless a game was utter crap, you could find some type of enjoyment in them. From PS3, 360 and Wii era, I've had to take the gaming industry with a big ass grain of salt. I had to learn to adjust my taste or no longer enjoy gaming period. What took it from my 6/7 to a great 8 was this. 1. Simply the fact that we finally have another Metroid, although I'd preferred Metroid Prime 4. 2. No day one patches because of glitches and other game issues of the like as alot of games in the last few generations. 3. You got the FULL game UPFRONT for your money, unlike many games of the last few generations. 4.That it was a respectable sequel to Fusion. How often do game or movie sequels fail to at least do some of justice to the original huh? A shit ton of them. 5. I judged it from the idea of the switch being a hybrid system. From a handheld standpoint it's more than enough. From a console, not so much. So I went with hand held in my final score. Lastly, I know, barring a few minor exceptions here and there, that games won't be made with the umph that they once were from years past. So I tried to fairly judge it despite my boogie standards and nit picks against it and other modern games. And to Cannot be Tamed, keep doing your thing Ma, I really enjoy your content.
I haven’t played the game yet, but hopefully you aren’t battered with “HOW DARE YOU DISAGREE WITH ME!” in the comments; honest takes should never be frowned upon and it’s your opinion.
I respect ur review but I totally disagree. The Emmi’s seemed to irritate you the most. I, on the other hand, felt those sections were a great change of pace. Yes Samus is an amazingly awesome badass but there ain’t much fun if you can trample over everything without any type struggle. And then the moment you acquire the Omega Blaster, you finally feel the playing field has been leveled. You then encounter it again and begin melting away the shield as it slowly creeps toward you. THEN, u try to charge the shot and blast the eye while it’s inches from you… It felt exhilarating and super rewarding. Although I never got stuck, the one thing I can understand is blocks hiding the path forward with no indication to shoot them. I guess my indicator was the enemies on the the other side of the blocks at times and my previous Metroid-game experiences. But again, I respect your take and I highly appreciate you supporting it by buying a copy, increasing the chances for us Metroid fans to get another game.
Finally someone isnt mindlessly showering the game with praise great review, im very conflicted on the game myself, the controls, boss fights and movements are absolutely amazing but the the atmosphere, lack of interconnected world, exploration and reliance on teleportation instead of having good level design like in super metroid was really disappointing for me.
I have to disagree with that first statement, I think this game has extremely mixed reception were most people either love it or hate it. As far as first party Nintendo games go this is the most mixed I have seen a games reception. There are large amount of people (or at the very least an extremely vocal minority) who either don't like a lot of things in this game or just hate it.
Like I said it might just be a very vocal minority but I have heard a lot of people express dislike for this game. I don't think you can go somewhere on the internet were people are talking positively about the game and there isn't someone coming into the conversation saying it is bad or not as good as other Metriodvanias. But yeah I'm talking about reception among fans, metacritic may reflect on the reception a bit, but metacritics kinda wack so yeah.
@@zachcoats4849 im really interested to know which sites are you talking about? the game got such high praise that even the user score is at 8.7 which is kind of mind blowing, just take a look at how Botw was review bombed, even RDR 2 and pretty much all forums put it in such a high pedestal where i have even seen it beating super metroid in polls and almost every constructive criticism post on reddit is downvoted to oblivion.
@@نونيم-ي4ح i think that the first few areas are good for exploration but as they game goes on it feels more and more linear until the exploration became a bad thing for the speed of the game and exploring is wasted time because you already have missiles and theres less proper boss fights that require yo to go back and get upgrades
Although I disagree with it, this is a very nice and well done review, specially considering you didn’t script it. I think it is interesting that you didn’t like most of the things that make this Metroid different from its predecesors like EMMIs, exploration changing if you do certain things (like pushing boulders), interactive cutscenes, more story narrative, etc. I got the feeling you were looking for a Super Metroid 2 instead. I completely agree with secret items being boring, they are always missile/bomb expansions or energy tanks. Sadly this is something all Metroid games have in common. In any case, I really enjoyed your video
Good review. I agree with you about the cutscenes and music - it’s a disappointment. Although I did quite enjoy the exploration aspect and the combat, especially the bosses For me Super, Fusion and Zero mission are much better games though
@@hepzibahhez9965 Like every Metroid game, it’s optional how you want to move through the world. You can backtrack and get off the critical path, and if you’re really good at these kinds of games then you can sequence break. Metroid has never been open-world, but it’s always been semi-linear.
You give the courage to speak your mind, overcome dread and face down the EMMI'S. A well balanced look at this latest release in the franchise. That is for the inspiration.
I played Super Metroid when it came out. It was wondrous. It's one of my favourite games ever. Dread is a dumpster fire in comparison. Linear to the point of being boring and the EMMI is frustrating garbage. It doesn't inspire dread or horror, it inspires apathy and tedium with a repeated one hit kill mechanic. Most disappointing game of my life in all honesty.
Agreed 100% here! Borrowed it to try and I'd had enough within an hour. Hated the lack of d-pad movement, and the EMMIs killed it when it became clear they were going to be a central feature throughout. Thankfully indies have risen up to follow on from the old classics :)
Oh man finally a review that is similar to my feelings on this game. It has 2 unique bosses. Water thing, which has similar moves as others, and end boss. Every other boss is a variation of another enemy, or Kraid, which is the best boss in the game. Imagine if EVERY boss has sequence skips and special scene rewards for different power ups and specific moves like Kraid does. The game fights backtracking as hard as possible, turning any of it into faceplanting into a locked door. It shoves you forward into the next train, elevator or teleporter. New moves don't really get a chance to shine and end up being color key cards more than anything. Even tho I liked the emmis I agree the cloak was dumb, and was a key card 75% of the time at least. I sincerely don't know why ppl call it GOTY. Just starving for a new entry I guess.
I actually agree with the 'soulless' atmosphere. I love this game but I love Super Metroid more just because of the atmosphere and the feeling of isolation. Also I fucking hate ADAM.
I really appreciate what you're saying here, and also how you say it. I felt the same about your Super Metroid review: measured, normal, and not over-the-top, comedic or performative like most of the big content reviewers on TH-cam. It's very calm and relaxing, but you also have new or interesting things to say about the game, like how the art style projects a sterile feel to the game, which I agreed with immediately. It's something I also recognized, but never focused on until you pointed it out.
You can't please everyone, no matter what game it is, or food, or art, its allllllll personal preference. Just happy Dread is pleasing so many people and just getting people TALKING about Metroid!
I personally think they nailed it and I'm a long time Metroid fan. My least favorite aspect was the EMMI. I get you wanting to use the d pad but the aiming would have been ruined. The atmosphere was nice imo but I agree it could have been more desolate and alien feeling but that goes back to the lack of details from previous titles that left that impression. Overall I thought it was great though and very fluid feeling. I get your nitpicks but still feel this is one of the best sidescrollers I've played even compared to sotn. To be fair I went into this thinking this would be terrible and was pleasantly surprised.
Thanks for this great review Pam and also great to see the crybaby fanboys in the comments 😂 This is just like the Kid Chameleon video! You will have plenty of material for a new Mean Comments video 👍
Not even played it but any footage alone just made it look like a very uninspired game imo. The whole visual look and design has something very generic and soulless about it--which I typed before even watching your video. It's partly due to the horribly plasticky look to everything because of the way they've textured it and whatever shader they are using to apply the overall lighting at stuff. I honestly really hate when artists basically half-ass it and try to get the computer to do the work via some algorithm that really doesn't know what looks great, rather than actually manually drawing amazing texture art and selectively giving everything just the right amount of reflectiveness or mattness and considering where every light source is going and what overall effect it has on the environment and just look of the scene and so on. This Metroid game, to me, comes across as very by the numbers in a lot of its art, design and production.
Bold as hell posting such a middling review of a currently beloved new release, mad respect. It's really interesting hearing the opinions of someone who's not super familiar with the series, since I'm a huge fan and every other person I've seen talking about Dread is the same way. One thing that I do think is user error is the EMMI kill cutscenes you hated so much. It *is* explained that if you're caught, you have a VERY tiny chance to parry an EMMI attack, it's borderline frame-perfect, and the timing of when the attack happens is randomized. So those cutscenes, instead of just killing you outright, give you a minuscule window to escape. Not understanding this mechanic certainly doesn't hurt enjoyment of the game much, but I'm surprised you didn't luck out and pull it off a single time outside of the first EMMI you encounter where the game tells you how it works, before Adam goes into more detail in a later Network Room.
Yes, I know you could escape the EMMIs with the parry, there’s footage of me doing it in the video, and I talk about it too. But the timing is so tight it happened like 1/10 of the time. I’d rather just die and try again that have to keep watching that scene.
If I had never played Hollow Knight I would have been a lot more into Metroid Dread. I liked Dread a lot, but it is nowhere near as good as Hollow Knight. I grew up on NES, SNES, and GBA Metroid games, but Hollow Knight just raised the bar beyond what this game aims for
It's loading the entire next section, including any new things that need to happen. I understand why load times are a little longer than normal. BOTW had some serious load times too.
Fair enough. Although definitely not perfect it still ended up being my favorite Switch title to date. I thought it was worth the cost but do wish the game was about 30% longer. My only other main criticism is the load times, I wish the transition to each zone was only a few seconds. The shooting blocks to progress thing has always been a Metroid staple, I am guessing most people with this complaint don't have much experience in the series. Is it good game design? Maybe not but I wasn't surprised by it. Late game you just feel like a complete badass and I love the amount of attitude that Samus has in this iteration. I also never care about being a competitionist but I felt compelled to collect everything in the game to 100% all the zones. I almost never replay games but I can see myself replaying this many times just like I did with Super Metroid. Holy crap, when some of the classic music themes come up I was getting goosebumps on top of goosebumps. Just so good, IMO.
For me its a great game, worth as much as I have paid for it which is USD 60.00 Its well polished, has great mechanics and gameplay, interesting boss battles (this includes the EMMI's cause in my opinion they are bosses just not in a traditional sense), Great exploration and item finding to get the 100% and to top it of has many, many moments where Samus is being a badass. I've 100% it in 10hrs on normal and going to be back for more!
@@glow4417 Super Metroid is probably top 2 Metroid game made though. It's between Super Metroid and the first Metroid Prime that's the best. I consider Metroid Dread probably 4 or 5 out of all the Metroid games.
First of all I appreciate the honesty in your review, you do have many valid points. Here's my take I'm surprised you found the map confusing. I actually think it's was too straightforward. The path it's too obvious, generally there's always a teleport or transport close to you. And also the map gives too much info. Because of that I did 100% in 10 hours. Anyway, I agree about the soundtrack. It's pretty bad comparing to other Metroid games. Nintendo didn't even gave options to adjust the volume lol Also, it didn't make me feel the "Dread" ; not even the EMMIS. Other ones such as Super, Prime 2 or Fusion gave much more "Dread" than this game. Maybe because, instead of having "EMMIS" moments, they actually constructed the atmosphere with the level design, the visuals and the soundtrack alone. Then there's the price. While the game encourages you to sequence break, it's not even near to the crazy amount of content that Hollow Knight and even old games like Symphony of the Night had. Indeed, 60 dollars is way too much for this. Overall though I liked the game a lot, for me it's was an awesome experience.
I didn't find the map confusing, I found it convoluted. The teleportals broke it up and the fact that paths kept closing behind you (or dumb fire plants would just pop up out of nowhere) made the game very linear.
@@Cannotbetamed1 I'm sorry, English is not my first langague so I didn't understand that sentence correctly. Anyway you are right about that, the teleportals and the things blocking the path made it very linear. Sometimes the older Metroid games were also linear. However, unlike Dread, they didnd't make it very obvious, so the player still need to think and really explore the map to advance in the game.
As much as I really enjoyed this game, it is a breath of fresh air to see a more critical review of it and you made a lot of good points on why you didn’t like certain aspects of it. Glad you gave it a try and good job on the review.
Personally, I loved this game. The only complaint I had if anything was how frustrating some of the shine sparks were, they kept me from going to 100% completion and I ended up stopping around 90% instead. I actually felt a lot of what you didn’t like about the game made it a lot more interesting than the typical Metroidvania. I loved the graphics and the all the cut scenes especially in the boss fights, it just made them feel epic. I also really liked the story, but considering you never played Fusion I can see you losing something there. I also, just generally thought the combat was amazing and the boss fights were really fun. I could definitely get your point about the E.M.M.I.s. I definitely didn’t like them as much as the boss fights, but I did think they created an interesting dynamic and I liked the cat and mouse puzzles they added. If I were to rate it, I’d give it about a 9.5 out of 10.
I 100% understand where you're coming from on the shine spark. I came to appreciate the shinespark puzzles, though that might have been because none of them were *too* hard once you understood the mechanics, and also because there were only a handful of shine spark puzzles in the game. But I think it's borderline bad design that there are subtle nuances to the shine spark that are never explained (such as the ways to maintain momentum, and that sparking into a slope resets your state), and one of the things Pam criticized--the lack of D-pad control forcing us to use the analog stick for all movement--didn't help. I didn't have as much trouble as I was anticipating storing the energy in tight situations by pressing down, but it's definitely more cumbersome on the analog sticks than it would be on a D-pad. If you ever do decide to go for 100%, I'd suggest looking up videos on the nuances of the mechanics - they're not all that difficult once you understand how to keep momentum, how to activate mid-spin-jump, etc. I get not wanting to hold people's hands, but the shine spark is such a chaotic ability that some prompting on what is possible with it would have been appreciated.
@@j.b.1903 It is really mostly because the Shinespark in Burenia that I stopped going for 100%. I had gotten 100% in all of the other regions aside from Ferenia at that point. That one shinespark just made me stop, so I actually did most of of them. The controls for shinesparks are just a bit clunky and when you have to chain multiple together....
It's a sequel to Fusion so I'd recommend playing it after that. That's fair regarding cutscenes, it's just taken for granted with non-indie games since the early '00s or so but I hate being interrupted by them, especially in a genre that can and should do environmental storytelling instead.
Great review. I got into metroid recently so the cut scenes so it really doesn't bother me but I understand your point. The control feels great, having an option of using d-pad would be good since a lot of players use that, though its not really for me because pro controller dpad sucks. The music isn't a standout but everyone said that to Zelda BOTW when it was released maybe it'll grow on me. Emmi are just fine, nintendo could've amp it up,. The addition of invisibility cloak is fine, there are new players who aren't really that good so it would be handy. And the price being $60 for me is justified for its quality. To be fair, games from NES are priced $40 back then so games are cheaper today, so it doesn't really bother me.
I dunno, using an 8-direction-only D-pad would seriously hinder your directional shooting, and aiming actually. The game seems made around the smoother analogue aiming, justifying it being analogue stick only. Also, I hear back in 1985, NES games WERE $60. (Before they went down later.) I even saw a commercial for the original Sonic the Hedgehog game, and it used to be $59.99 too in 1991. Games were always expensive.
The E.M.M.I.'s ruined it for me. I can handle them. I usually stun them 1-in-3 times, and they're easy to evade once you get the hang of it. I still hate them. It's just like the platforming in Doom Eternal. It's a thing I don't want, don't need, and didn't ask for. No need for a pass/fail stealth mechanic in this kind of game imo
I'm late to the party but always a good day when Pam uploads. 👍 I can respect your opinion on this. You made some points that I thought myself for things. The most recent Metroid games have definitely been MercurySteam's Metroid, rather then Nintendo's Metroid. And there are both benefits and sacrifices for that. One of those things being that item collection is much easier and the games are more hand holdy, something I lament but others think is great. I was ok with the cutscenes, being someone invested in the overall Metroid story, but I can see how they are invasive. But cutscenes have always popped up in Metroid since Super Metroid, although less frequent of course. I was also not happy about not having toggle options for the game. Yes, you can change control settings for the Switch, but that's really annoying considering it should be an option within the game itself. Also, I agree, I think there should have been more post game content for the price point. But who knows, maybe they'll add some dlc down the line. Nintendo has been doing this lately with games, something I'm not a fan of personally but seems to be the future of gaming as a whole. Sorry you did not enjoy the game as much. I enjoyed it but as you said, some of the navigation going through the game is annoying. But having beaten the game once, it's better the next time. You can have more gun messing around and trying new stuff. Lastly I'll say, after the first playthrough, facing the EMMIs are not as bad. I honestly find myself just cruising through the rooms now. Good video Pam.👍
Interesting gripes. Personally loved the game. Only issue I felt was the music, wish it could of done a bit more. And getting my hands to grasp my controller properly was another I suppose haha. Definitely not overrated by any means. This is a metroid game through and through. The gameplay, art, lore and atmosphere was amazing. Sad to hear you didn't find it that great. To each their own.
Same! Found it left much to be desired. Good music helps you remember the moments it was attached to. It can amplify the experience in positive ways. Felt Dread's soundtrack was deadening, almost soulless. Which was a shame since Samus Returns had some amazing music. What happened Mercury Steam? They put their heart and soul into everything else, thankfully!
WOOOOOOOOOW!!!! You TORE this apart!!🤣🤣 I read the header and the knife plunged into my heart🤣🤣 You are a TOUGH critic!! I don’t have a Switch but, I was considering it just for this game (I did it before for Metroid Prime Trilogy). I still might in the future when I have time. Excuse me now for I must go remove the knife 🤣🤣🤣
I understand your gripe with the game. EMMIs were a bit rough and speed booster got me at least 10 times. All I can say is running > Cloak. Dread is a combo of all the Metroid ideas over the years. Samus returns and Fusion having the most impact. Fusion had hella bosses, the SA X stalker enemy and Returns added the cinematics. I loved both of those so dread was right up my alley.
People keep gushing on it like mad. It seems like it's what I assume it to be...more Metroid! Which to me is a good thing but I don't think it's worth all the online "it's the greatest game everrrrr" sploogeorama I'm seeing. I want it but not for 60 bones. SMT V on the other hand is definitely going to get bought.
it's opinion... She only played S Metroid and barely liked it, which is considered one of the best 2d games ever made... Not everyone will like the same things.
Yep. I got them red to fire and when I'm about to fire, EMMI got me. I hated that cut scene. Just kill me without letting me look at that drill killing me. I get it.
I happened to really love the game, but you're definitely not wrong with the points you made. I thought the whole "stealth" aspect in a Metroid game was annoying, even if in limited spots. And when they make you do it underwater (pre-gravity suit) in at least two areas I remember, that's just a special kind of sadistic torture. And going back for the optional upgrades hardly seemed worth it for anyone but hundred percent completionists. Having to execute a complicated Spinespark maneuver just for a few more missles or a bit more energy was too much of an ask. Again, I tend to love Metroid games, warts and all. But I can see why others may be turned off.
I wasn't super hyped about the $60 price tag. Growing up playing Metroid since the NES days, and seeing much better metroidvania games come out at much lower prices, I couldn't fathom how Nintendo thought it was okay to charge full price for the new one. After playing it... I'm still not sold. It was an okay game, it wasn't bad at all. But it took me 7 hours to beat and I have no desire to replay it on hard mode. For $60 and two days of gaming, I can't recommend this at full price at all. The amount of content compared to dollar cost just isn't there. This shouldn't have been more than $40 in all honesty. But all the "game of the year" talk about this game is not justified at all. I can't believe anyone would even consider it as a GotY contender.
People don't like this game because of how hard it is I believe , you have to look at the backgrounds , notice hidden stuff. All of it is good I don't under the hate but its not for you but don't say it's bad just because it isn't
@@Egood_ty I never said it was bad. As a matter of fact I said it wasn't bad at all. What I said is it's not a GotY contender and it shouldn't have been $60. Two days worth of gaming for $60? Seriously?
I can so relate about your opinion about the EMMIs. I think I died to every one at least once and a lot to some to the point where I was already prepared for it going into a new zone which got super annoying as you can imagine. I felt like it was a great idea but could have been done better. I really enjoyed the game regardless and your points are fair and honest which I appreciate and I can see where you're coming from. Great review! :)
I've only played about 10 hours of Metroid Dread (going slowly too, so I'm not very far into it), but I've loved it so far. I played Metroid as a boy, then Super Metroid around 1995. Those games blew my mind and I still love playing them. Same with Metroid Prime, Zero Mission, and Fusion. Anyways, I love the precise controls, awesome map, upgrades/weapons, sounds design, smooth 60fps visuals, tension of EMMI areas, relaxation of escaping said areas, and much more in Metroid Dread. It will probably be my favorite game released this year (especially since Advance Wars has been delayed till 2022). I'm looking forward to watching all of your video about it, but I don't want to have bosses or late game power ups spoiled so I'm going to wait. Also, I ordered the 2 CD soundtrack of Symphony of the Night from Japan. I played and absolutely loved the game back when it first came out. I liked your comment that you enjoyed every single song during your playthrough.
I've not played it but most say they complete the game within 7 hours and 100% everything by 10-12 hours So I'm surprised your not very far after 10. Just saying 😉👍
@@ZamWeazle Part of it was that I lost my save when switching to a new OLED Switch. Metroid Dread is the only game save I screwed up and lost. I'm happy about it though because it's the kind of game I enjoy starting over from the beginning (like Breath of the Wild, Kingdom New Lands, Super Mario Bros, and several others). I take my time with games I really like. I've got over 10 hours logged with A Short Hike, and still enjoy playing more sometimes.
@@GradyKallenbach I think I'm similar, I think. I take time to slowly go through and appreciate the game. I don't blaze through it to get to the end as quickly as possible. 👍
@@ZamWeazle Yeah, I just got to the "pig in chains" as a woman called it in a comment on this video and I'm at around 15 hours with Metroid 5. So I'm way behind schedule according to the how long to beat website. It took me 130 hours to beat Witcher 3. I usually pretty slow at games
@@GradyKallenbach Actually with Witcher 3 because of all the side quests it can take easily as long. Hollow knight apparently takes around 25 hours to beat. It took me about 80 hours although that was half the side quests too. I'm 109 hours in last tine I checked and still got Trial Of The Fools and most of the pantheon battles still to beat so I'm wayyyy behind or just rubbish lol
As someone who genuinely enjoyed playing Dread from beginning to end- moreso than Super Metroid even- I just have to say...... Bravo. This is how you give a negative/mixed review. I may disagree with a lot of what you said, but your points are coming from a place of authenticity, and you're not being a Jaffe. That's all I can ask for with opposing opinions. I just hope the next 2D Metroid can be made with this feedback in mind so everyone can be satisfied with it.
@@Wingedmagician That's actually a good criticism to make. Some people were afraid they'd miss out on key events from previous games if they just started with Dread. If Sakamoto could put them at ease by saying it's not necessary to play through those games first, I don't understand how they didn't take into account the players who aren't interested in the story at all. Those cutscenes definitely should have been skippable at any time.
![ILLSLICK X YOUNGOHM - We're The same [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/yUJNkobYR0E/mqdefault.jpg)
Agreed on the EMMIs particularly. I think what ruined it for me the most with them was that the chances to parry when you got caught had such random and tight timing that it's pretty much impossible to learn. I spent a couple hours going into an EMMI zone to get deliberately caught and practice the parries, and even after all that practice I wasn't improving much, and was at best getting a parry one in 20 chances (10 encounters, 2 chances to parry when you get caught). I wouldn't mind the tight timing so much as the fact that there really isn't much in the way of indicators - by the time you see the flash and hear the "ching!" noise, you've already missed your chance. Your button press has to pretty much be simultaneous with what ostensibly should be the indicator.
I understand making the EMMI encounters difficult, but it could have been done in such a way that players could still improve. Maybe have 3-4 different indicators for the beginning of the sequence, and the timing is different for each, so the player has to be able to quickly identify which timing to use for the parry. Maybe have each EMMI have different indicators, so you have to learn each individually. Things like that would go a long way to making the "dread" sections exciting rather than tedious.
Yeah, I didn't really even want a chance to improve, I'd rather just die when I got caught and never have to deal with them at all.
Having beaten the game, maybe seven or eight times at this point I rather enjoyed those encounters. Since they’re random, you’re not really supposed to learn them. You’re supposed to avoid the EMMI in the first place and only hope that if you get caught you, you can get out. You can learn the bosses and you can learn every single enemy in the game except for that timing, so no matter how much you try, you will almost always fail. But not always.
I feel like it’s almost an instinct that you’re relying upon. I Especially felt that way after countering an Emmy getting trapped again and then countering it a second time within the span of 10 seconds. I really enjoyed those encounters.
Dread is my game of the year. I can understand some people not liking it, but nothing feels as good as mastering the controls and motions in this game. It rewards mastery, and that feels great.
exactly how I feel! mastering the contrls and pulling off certain movements almost feels like pulling off fighting game inputs lol
It better win an Award otherwise I would be really pissed like how Smash Ultimate lost to Sekiro for GOTY.
@@sleepytwiggaming needless to say, she didn't master the controls lol
I agree for the most part but using the grapple beam, the omega cannon, and swapping between missiles while aiming to moving was really clunky. You end up holding 3 buttons at once while using the control stick.
At very least they should have streamlined it a little or at least made missiles a toggle like they used to be.
Still it's my favorite Metroid game and mastering it feels good even if a handful of actions are clunkier than they should have been.
Dread as game of the year? Must be a poor year for games. Because when you think where Dread ranks in the greatest metroidvanias ever made, it doesn't even get close to getting in the top 20.
You posting a review of a metroid game that is even the slightest bit negative makes you braver than the troops
I got downvoted to hell on Reddit for giving my honest thoughts on the game and it's story lmao
@@agreedboarart3188 Lmao, Reddit be salty
@@agreedboarart3188 You don't say. I got down voted on BOW too.
I've been a Metroid fan since Super back in 94. I love this new entry in the series, but I'll admit there were some changes I'd appreciate with the controls. I disagree with most of her critiques, but they are valid points that she's making. After watching this review and the previous one on Super Metroid, I wouldn't say that she is a fan of the series, and that's fine. I'm still a fan of her channel. Every game is not for everybody.
@@agreedboarart3188 yes reddit
In my honest opinion, Metroid Dread is up there with Super and Prime 1 when it comes to my Top 3 Favorite Metroid games. So glad to see how much MercurySteam has been knocking it out of the park lately with Metroid, and how well the game has been selling. I think it deserves all the love it gets and I’ve honestly yet to play a game that I loved more this year.
I couldn’t disagree more with a lot you said about the game though. If you don’t like the substantial amount of lure and detail from the cutscenes, you can always skip them like it’s nothing, the level design is brilliant and strikes a fine balance when it comes to giving you a lot to explore without ever feeling like you’re getting hand-holded or lost (unless you’re David Jaffe) because of how well the game handles its backtracking (making it all the more rewarding when you’re finally able to revisit areas as you obtain upgrades), the environments are beautifully distinct, detailed, and how each area of the game starts to look more and more breathtaking when you’re reaching the surface is amazingly-executed, the E.M.M.I’s really added a lot to the progression of the game when it comes to how you work your way around each one (depending on the upgrades you get overtime) and overcoming them each time is super satisfying, and the overall game more than justifies its $60 price tag when it comes to being a full-fledged Metroid game with tons of replay value.
Also, I have no idea what version of the game you’ve been listening to btw. Because the OST for Metroid Dread is by far one of my favorites in the franchise and is absolutely amazing to listen to. I have tons of favorites in it whether it’d be because of how distinct, memorable, or atmospheric it is. As a music composer myself, I absolutely loved the music in this game.
Yeah, Dread is fantastic
I’m glad you liked it. But you cannot just skip the cutscenes, that is not an option given. And I think it’s quite ugly and the map is poorly designed. But that on is a meter of opinion.
@@Cannotbetamed1 If you press the + button and then the - button, it should always allow you to skip cutscenes at a moments notice. Even whenever Adam’s monologuing, mash A and it should take less than 3 to 5 seconds to skip everything.
@@Cannotbetamed1 it did take me a bit to understand the map as the map Super Metroid introduced was used in many other games in the genre with little changes, this game shook things up more and once I knew what I wa slooking at, I really liked it. The telport color coordinated icons confused me at first.
Game of the year for me. Top tier Metroidvania better than extremely overrated modern games like Hollow Knight & Ori.
Okay.
Hollow Knight is way better than this game. This is the most overrated game of the year.
@@SlaveKnightGael Hollow Knight is the most overrated game in the genre. Derivative imitation taking aspects from much better games.
@@randomizer2240 Your opinion is worthless to me. It's regarded as one of the best games in all Metroidvania. I guess you just have really bad tastes, because myself and millions of others love Hollow Knight. I also think Dread is one of the worst Metroid games in the entire series, so it's pointless talking to someone like you.
As a fan of exploration, the E.M.M.I. sections were a negative for me. The game also blocks off previous paths which made it much more linear & to return to places you had to find longer alternative routes, it was pretty frustrating as someone who doesn't enjoy missing things.
The control configuration to perform later movement upgrades was clumsy & you had to pull off some awkward button sequences (some too difficult) to get to collectables.
The graphics were good & the surroundings, while bland, fit the setting. I recommend using the easier difficulty mode for slightly more generous item drops from enemies & bosses.
The only review I've seen that agrees with me.
"Another ****ing EMMI." Yup, 100% agreed. Just stopped caring after awhile and ditched the game.
Samus should not have the title Bounty Hunter, instead be an exterminator of just about every life form standing in her way.
Yeah, there are no bounties. She’s just about the genocide.
Outside of topic, and pleasant to see your mascot in this show, what a nice pooch btw.
I appreciate your honest review here, some pretty good perspective criticism.
@@jonathanjollimore7156 Oh no no, if someone criticises something I like it's personal and basically an attack on myself as an undividual.
Thanks, glad you enjoyed
@@Cannotbetamed1 I'm curious what your opinion on other Metroid titles are?
@@georgelabauve3469 Bruh didn't you watch the video? She said she only played Super Metroid so she didn't have a base to compare to previous games.
@@carlosaponte2349 yeah I got that, I am curious about what she would think about those games after giving them a try.
"Another fucking EMMI" needs to be a thing!
When that happened, I wanted to my goddamn fist into the screen
Makes it funny, that Emmi is a common female name in Finland. "Oh shit, another fucking Emmi!"
Concise and very well rounded review. Great details and explanations of technical/literary issues and the like.
Keep up the great work, Cannot be Tamed!
Thanks!
Metroid fans have a reputation for being extremely rational and mature. We can tolerate an alternate perspective with grace and poise, especially from a seasoned and respected critic of Metroidvanias such as yourself. I’m not furious at all! People are allowed to criticise Metroid Dread!!
*Reported for crimes against humanity and me personally*
"Metroid fans have a reputation of being extremely rational and mature" is neither a rational or mature statement lol
David Jaffe saw this first hand haha
@@John-996 but let's be honest, his point was fucking shit. This video is a good and rational critique. Jaffe is just acting like a child in those videos
@@joaoassumpcao3347 But it seems to make more sense now I disagree with allot of things he says but. This game obviously has some issues.
Nah, in my experience Metroid fans are one of the loudest and most unreasonable bunch I've ever experienced in a Nintendo fanbase. If word gets around about this video you'll see an influx of Dread fans rushing in here to downvote the video without even watching it. In fact, I'm pretty sure some of that has already happened considering there's over 700 dislikes at the time of me posting this. Now, I agree that people like YOURSELF are mature and rational, but you clearly aren't representative of the entire Metroid fanbase (well, not the one I've witnessed).
I agree that the game is mediocre but the price makes sense. Brand recognition trumps quality 9 times out of 10.
I appreciate a dissenting opinion. Some of these I even agree with, like the lack of control with a D-pad and the abundance of unskippable cutscenes toward the beginning. I don't think either of those issues hinder the game all that much though, especially since the game was very much designed with the control stick in mind and cutscenes are basically a non-issue on replays.
However, I very much disagree with the idea that the areas are forgettable or sterile. I've only played the game three times, compared to over a dozen for Super Metroid and most other Metroid games, but I found the areas to be very distinctive visually. Ferenia and Burenia are some of the coolest looking areas in any Metroid game. An elegant Chozo temple and an abandoned biological research lab, on top of the lush and naturalistic Ghavoran, which you mentioned.
I also disagree with some of the map design complaints. While it's true that the path forward is almost always telegraphed via the teleportals, they don't normally lock you out of going to other areas for more upgrades. The best example I can think of is that once you get the Morph Ball, you are incentivized to go to get the Varia suit in Artaria with a teleportal. But you can still go back to the other rooms you missed manually, and you will eventually make it back to Artaria anyway, so the way I see it the devs just did you a favor and saved the player some time. There's only 2 or 3 moments where they actually force you into a certain area. Plus, they designed a TON of sequence breaks into the map for those that are paying extra close attention. I even discovered a few of them on accident, like getting Cross Bombs before the Screwattack and getting the Scan Pulse way earlier than intended. Also, I think the fact that bosses hit so hard makes it more necessary to find more upgrades, since every one increases your chance of survival. It's less of a "I'm even harder to kill" and more of a "Now I can survive a little easier."
As for the EMMIs, it's really a matter of taste. I love the fear factor that they introduce in the game and the areas are designed really well to give you multiple routes for escape. I don't disagree that they make the game "less fun," but I also don't think they were meant to be fun. They were meant to create tension and give the player a feeling of satisfaction and relief when they are finally done with the area. It's frustration used as a motivation to get better at the game, which is the kind of shit I adore. Totally understandable why someone wouldn't love them, though.
Music is generally forgettable in terms of the tunes, but I think they are great for setting the mood for each area. It's like Norfair's theme in Super Metroid. It's more impactful in making the area feel dangerous, but not very interesting to listen to by itself.
Value is such a subjective thing. I think it's worth it for being a brand new game with high production quality and being very polished. I don't care much about length when it comes to value, especially when a game is as replayable as something like Metroid. In the end, it's up to the person to determine if it's worth it for them. But broad statements are hard to justify, on either end.
And yeah, Hollow Knight is definitely worth more money than it's being sold for. Game slaps.
Cool video. I'm sad to hear you didn't enjoy it as much as I did, but I am glad you had your well-thought out reasons.
And thank you for the well thought out response. When it comes to cost, it's not really that I don't think this is worth $60, it's that a lot of other much cheaper games should be worth $60 as well.
@@Cannotbetamed1 i feel its a 3ds game remade for the switch. Which is good but not great. $40 tops.
@@Bee_Mavrick this has 10x more polish than the 3DS Metroid and much better pace and atmosphere.
@@arieb7589 yeah a remastered 3ds
I'm going to be honest here: I am not at all used to controlling a 2D character with the analog stick, and before I played the game, I was bummed that there would not be an option to play with the d-pad... But then I actually started controlling Samus in this game. To say that the controls are buttery smooth is an understatement.
Old school difficulty in games, well designed and well paced... It's one of the best switch games so far and best of the year
No.
This game really gave me a great sense of accomplishment which I rarely feel in games. It was just difficult enough for me to briefly get stuck at times, which I actually enjoy in games like this and Zelda because I have to use my brain. The 100% item upgrades is designed to be difficult and I'm impressed with myself for finding them all on my own. Overall the whole atmosphere and gameplay was ideal for someone like me.
The bosses definitely made me feel accomplished.
I loved Samus Returns but here is why I didnt enoy Dread nearly as much:
1: where are the fast travel? there are teleports who bring you to one specific place but no fast traver, it was present in Samus Returns, why remove it? this made backtracking a pain in the ass and I never did it.
2: I never really felt free to explore, 70% of paths and upgrades you find are "sorry you dont have this missile type yet, cant enter here" which felt stressful, I know there are many different ways to arrive to proceed but I didnt felt that, I felt like I always only had the possibility to follow one path and that path was confused af, with weird teleports that bringed you across the map etc, like the game was playing me not the opposite
3: the EMMIs: Yes they are original and un-heard from in the genre, I dont even mind escaping, or the fear, it was even cool, but I the thing I like about metroidvanias are taking things slowly and exploring every area, but the EMMI's zones where a big part of the map and I could not explore them, both because it was full of stupid doors that closed and opened in a way I still dont get and also because how can you explore if you must always avoid an unkillable fucker, the thing I did was get out of the EMMI zones as fast as I could and explore the other zones (for the little exploring there was), I felt like I was betraying the sense of metroidvanias.
4: the combat was very cool but it was a bit to easy, I would have prefered if they have the hard mode available at the start.
5: way to many missiles, everywhere, even in bosses, what is the point of the missiles tank upgrades if there are so many anyway, in Samus Returns every missile counted.
-
Still a good game, at least 7/10 but its not Samus Returns.
Loved the game but agreed on some of your points.
The menu map helps alleviate almost all navigation confusion once you learn how to use it effectively.
Emmi's need to be less formulaic, as well assome of the level design. Could be more fun and not mainly just stressful. It wasnt terrible, but it could have been better.
Careful Pam with the Metroid fanboys !!!
As someone who is currently stuck trying to traverse past a late game EMMI, I won't say that they are neither good nor bad. It's an interesting mechanic for sure, but they do lend themselves to being enormously frustrating. Oftentimes, it feels like a roll of a dice what kind of experience you'll have in an EMMI zone. Sometimes they are spawned at a place that basically traps you as soon as they clue in to your location. At the point I'm at (water/purple EMMI), I feel so disadvantaged when trying to evade and have died countless times.
The EMMI chasing you through water was absolutely frustrating, I must agree.
Blue was worse for me. So many times it spawned on the other end of whatever door I approached. One time putting me into that crappy cutscene as the room loaded in.
I agree with you on several points, especially on your EMMI take. Absolutely not fun. Not scary, not fun, just a pace-breaking chore. I honestly have no idea why journalists and TH-camrs find, or pretend to find, that aspect fun.
Look at the dislike ratio. Thats why. This is one of the weakest Metroid games ever made but no ones allowed to criticize it without massive opposition and harassment it seems. The God of War designer thought this game had bad game design and everyone shit on him for it. He's now a meme a literal game designer for one of the best games ever made vs a developer who made 7 and below out of ten games for their whole life until Nintendo put Metroid on the cover.
Its a jokr
Because yall are boring. Everything about the game was fun.
@@jebril there is plenty wrong with Jaffe's take. One major point being the fact that he has never played a metroid game and didn't understand the concept of hidden blocks. It tells you in the tutorial that hidden blocks were a thing and how to find them, but he says it never tells you. He's getting shit on because he's like a DSP. He's bad at the game and instead of accepting that he should play and get better, he blames the developers. You can criticize the game. There's plenty of criticism. And I see more comments agreeing or peacefully disagreeing with the points in this videos. Quit acting like a victim and lying about hate mobs when the only people getting "hate" and those who have really stupid and hilarious takes.
Pace breaking? You're never going to have a constant pace on your first playthrough of any game. On my second playthrough I fly through emmi zones. So I don't get your Pace breaking argument. People really like the game. You don't have to assume ill will on their part for liking something you don't.
@@MrFRNTIK I’ve been participating in online video game-related discourse for two decades so perhaps I should be used to it, but this comments section is mind boggling. It’s not just people disagreeing, but also thinking that others are lying about their opinions. What the heck happened to just talking about games? Everything has to be inflammatory.
By far the best review of this highly overrated game
Valid review. Most of us are bias anyways cuz we’re huge Metroid fans.
Thanks. Everyone's got their own biases.
Game was a Masterpiece to me! Best game I’ve played all year!!
Cool!
your standards must be incredibly low man
@@paratrooper508 and your standards must be trash.
Thank you ! It felt like I was going crazy when this game released, when everybody was calling it the best thing since sliced bread. It's a not a bad game per say, but you said it well: it's meh.
I agree with your review, and I might have been even more critical of Dread. You identified all of my major issues, especially with the map funneling you to the next point and interfering with exploration and power up discovery and how the rewards for power ups don’t feel powerful. Why get more misses and life if the boss encounters don’t require them? I found the bosses to be more head banging than even the E.M.M.I.‘s but understand how some people mastering their mechanics rewarding. Having played the past Metroids I thought I could get more power ups and eventually steam roll them. It’s like this Metroid is stuck in between two design philosophies. The exploration and becoming over powered like the original games and some new version where boss fight mechanics are the most important thing. Each version of those designs conflict with the other which makes for a frustrating game experience. My least favorite Metroid for sure.
Great review and analysis!
Thanks!
I appreciate that you poised this as your opinion and not as fact like jaffe did even though your opinion wasn’t anywhere nearly as extreme haha.
I disagreed with most of your points although I thought that made sense what you said about missile tanks not being too important to go out of your way for since most enemies drop them. There’s a few boss fights especially the final boss where it can make a difference though. I did think that energy tanks made a huge difference during boss battles whether normal or hard mode.
I’ve played this game through 8 times and counting and I believe it did a great job by metroid fans and the genre owes a lot to these games.
Thought it was a little nitpicky though I 100% respect that you have your opinion it sounds like it maybe wasn’t just quite for you.
I enjoyed the video a lot though and your personality, I was originally annoyed by the title of the video that’s what drew me in haha because I think this game is so fantastic it really does it for me and I find it so engaging for sure. I’ve never come to your channel before but I will come back sometime.
I was wondering if it was you playing or not during the clips since you made that comment in the start of the video.
Sometimes I get the impression that we have waited so long for new metroid that there are a lot of gamers familiar with the genre but not as much with these titles who I’ve heard a lot of them hit walls with the game and are less satisfied with the experience. There are those that are new that love it too of course though.
I personally loved the emmis and found them a fair challenge that are satisfying to kill once possible. I can’t imagine some of my first metroid learning experiences be with emmis though and it is different for the series so I can understand if one doesn’t like those parts. Though I do love them and can now zip through those areas with no problems anymore. The counters are difficult to learn but possible! Each emmi has different timing and I can so see how people find it tough but I thought it was the perfect level. Then again I am obsessed with sekiro on my 18th playthrough lol..
I thought the music was chill, ambient, overall enjoyable but doesn’t get absolutely stuck in my head like other metroid games do, such as super does or zero mission does.
I thought it was very enjoyable and funny to see your opinion on some of the lore or characters and your disinterest with it as well as the cutscenes, because for me all of that stuff was in my opinion perfect to me though the one I definitely understand is the intro cutscene, after 7 or 8 times of seeing it it would be nice to be able to skip. Most other cutscenes are skippable though and I thought the counter or blasting interactive cutscenes were a great addition.
That’s fair if you didn’t like the exploration in this game, but I think only getting 37% or however much it was you ended up with isn’t the best perspective on the exploration since 100% the game is insanely gratifying and replaying the game to find or try out creative sequence breaks gives it even more life.
Wow though. $90 is a lot for a game! I feel for you…. That sucks and especially if the game isn’t for you I can understand some of your reservations with it. I respect your opinion of course personally though I couldn’t be more satisfied with the purchase and I’m unsure the exact amount of time I’ve spent it might be somewhere over 50 hours though. For the enjoyment I’ve gotten out of the game, and the special interconnected labyrinth of a world that I only find in metroid it was definitely very worth it to me for the $60 I spent.
Very smart point about how you could get hollow knight ori blasphemous etc for that price and it’s true. In my eyes though, this is the queen of the genre once you’re in love with this game or series with the world design and progression it has to offer, I personally don’t find any other games to do it the same way.
I find a level of detail in this games design that isn’t the same in other metroidvanias block by block, area to later accessible area and don’t see it done the same elsewhere. I always respect someone who enjoyed hollow knight more and while that’s a superb game it doesn’t scratch the same itch or offer the same rewarding sensation of progression with an immersive universe like that of metroid.
I love the plants and love the dog and I like your attitude about reviewing games I feel it’s respect to cast things as your opinion rather than fact.
Saying git gud was perfect lmao.
Wish you the best
I don’t think there’s a single dislike on this video and you’re casting a dissenting opinion on a beloved and long awaited classic game?
It makes sense to me why, it’s hard not to like you and respect where you’re coming from.
I'm not sure where you're seeing no dislikes, there are almost 1000.
But thanks for watching and welcome to the channel! It is me playing in the game footage I used in the video.
@@Cannotbetamed1 ah sorry about that it’s rare to have no dislikes and I gave it a like
Yes, games are stupid expensive in Canada especially when you throw in extras like amiibo.
So I only played the demo, but for many of the reasons mentioned, it didn't make me want to buy the game. When it was good, it was really good, but the EMMI sequences were just not fun and felt gimmicky. Might pick it up if it goes on sale, but for my money I'd rather play the Ori games
Pam, you spoke of a Nintendo game without undying reverence. Prepare to read the worst personal insults from the worst people.
Lol you’re not wrong Jeff.
🤷🏻♀️
I can throw down some hardcore language, too. Like "mosh pit"
Atmosphere, level map design, graphics, controls, Emmi inclusion, boss battles, story...all top notch for me. Game was amazing! Played and finished every Metroid game since the original on NES. Each to their own I guess :)
Glad you enjoyed it.
Its an ok Metroid game. All of the hype was created by Nintendo so stremers can help sell the game. Way too many bumper button combos felt clunky so many times I would love to have D-pad. The emmi zones are more annoying then scary, when you die there is no consequences you end up at the door, cut scenes are annoying it's Metroid get me in the game so I can start exploring, the music is not that atmosphereic, and the graphics did not put me in isolated and foreign planet that I need to explore and conquer. I felt most rooms were basically a 4 by 4 box format and bland. It's an ok game not better than Super Metroid, not better than prime 1 or 2, not better than fusion, not better than AM2R even and that was a fan made game not even a commerical product.
@@josephcox3091 each to their own....Not better than Super Metroid or Prime for sure but it is great. Disagree with a lot of what you said but that is all good. Happy gaming mate!
@@rickhynes2693 if you like this game I'm not holding it against you, it's a good game, but just an OK Metroid game and considering that it's been a really long time since we have had a NEW 2D Metroid game not remakes, I expected more. I also can't remember any of the songs after playing this game so the sound track compared to other Metroid games like super prime 1 and prime 2. There is nothing scary or overwhelming about this game. I don't like the counter strike feature it takes the fear out of going into a room knowing I can most likely one shot everything from the getgco and if I screw up there is no consiqyences, you can beat this game with out taking any optional save points, dieing and then respawn at the last door you entered takes the fear out of it. The sound track is not good, the colors feel painted back drops not atmospheric I don't feel like the stages are alive and trying to kill me. I don't want to know where every up grade is, take the upgrades off the map it takes the fun out of exploring if you know where everything is, exploring feels more like an optional quest than something rewarding when you know where the secrets are on the map which is not Metroid like. Super Metroid is the best but when you first played it and didn't know anything about the game before hand it really suprised you, it suprised you that Krockalmire had infjnte health bar and the only way to beat him was push him off the ledge, it suprised you that a chozo statue tries to kill you, in prime when you get the ice beam you were really scared with the ghosts, or when you go to the phendrana drifts and the space pirats are invisible and give you that crazy sound track. Like nothing about this game is like that. Metroid is kinda a sci-fi survival horror and exploration, this game only got some elements to this and quite frankly I expect more from Metroid, I hold Metroid up with Zelda I expect a lot and when you have just an OK Metroid game you get a divided fan base, you got the fans that are overly hyped because it's been so long they will accept this game full price and say it's amazing, and then you got fans like me that are very disappointed. The cut scenes are there to help generate those surprise moments but they take me out of the game. I don't want to feel like I'm watching Samus. I want to feel like I am Samus and having all those cut scenes ruins it for me.
I appreciate your opinion and perspective on this game! Nice to see someone saying something besides "Please go out and buy it so we get more Metroid"😂 I'm on the fence about picking it up, but you raised a lot of good points about things I think will bother me too. Maybe I'll hold off a little bit longer to grab it!
Play the demo and maybe wait for a sale (Black Friday?)
@@darth_hylian i might just avoid dread altogether.
You're doing yourself a disservice. It's amazing.
It’s mediocre
@@Cannotbetamed1 I am a Metroid fan, but Dread is good at best, not great at all. Realy a janky game in a lot of ways.
6:19 The flash shift is among the most fun movement abilites I've had while playing a 2d platformer. I hope that many more games take inspiration from this since it's just so fun to move around while using that mechanic.
Edit: Why is my lame comment praising this game the only upvoted one? Smh
I _know_ I've seen this ability in another game before, but hell if I can come up with where. Was it that one game that guy made himself?
Wow, I'm extremely unhelpful.
Axiom Verge had this
Flash shift is great, but it’s also not remotely new to the genre. Lots of games have something similar.
Woah nelly! You are braver than Samus for your views on this one 😅😆 but, then again, they are your views and yours alone. Whether they are right or wrong, they are genuine. Commendable
This review is straight fire water. I completely disagree, but I love it for the reason I appreciate all of your content. I can tell this is your genuine opinion, and not what the Internet told you your opinion was supposed to be, and I applaud that.
Thanks!
This is one of your best critiques but fanboys are gonna down smash
Thanks
I’m only recently into meroidvanias as my gaming reflexes aren’t what they were (I’m 52!) But I bought this despite failing to finish Metroid and Super Metroid. For me it’s hard! I’m just fighting a giant pig thing in chains and despite said chains he is kicking my butt.
I have enjoyed the exploration so far and map markers-plural- is a godsend for me the queen of short term memory loss 😏
Not a fan of the robots either. What happened to Asimov’s Law???
Anyway I want to thank you for getting me into metroidvanias with your video on them. I have bought Blasphemous and I’m reassuringly shit at it, Hollow Knight - which I’m not going too bad in - and Axiom Verge. I’m alive but utterly lost in AV so there must be one of those random destructive walls invisible to the player. I agree, for progression, they suck. Rambling now, love your channel muchly 💛
Thank you so much. It makes me happy to get people into new games that I love.
Hi, older gamer here. Do you play on PC by any chance?
Remember to try using the address disruptor on everything! (A very weak hint that may not even apply to your current situation in AV, but for me, the one instance where I got really stuck turned out to require the use of the address disruptor.)
I've always enjoyed Metroid Fusion and Metroid Zero Mission on GBA and found them easier to get into than other games of that type. They're considered more linear, but that's a good thing in my book. I find that my favorite Metroidvanias tend to be from Castlevania, so I recommend those if you have not played them yet. Symphony of the Night is amazing. I also love Aria of Sorrow on GBA. The DS Castlevanias are all very good too, though the touch gimmicks in Dawn of Sorrow are super annoying, so I'm going to use a rom hack in the future.
Good luck on the Kraid boss fight! I struggled with the bosses in this game (especially the last one) but I found it satisfying to learn the patterns. Even the last boss isn't too bad after you learn the patterns so just keep trying until you figure it out :3
Wow finally a realistic review that isn't trying to have an agenda, I think people hyping this up, giving it 10/10, calling it game of the year, are feeding into the Nintendo hype. This is a game that supposed to be what defined a genre by which we call it, but those indie games you mentioned have way more refined mechanics and progression that wants you to explore, this game is bang average as far as the genre goes. There's no insensitive to ever 100% the map, and that's literally the most addictive part of a Metroidvania. That said its not a bad game, just a very average one. 6/10.
It’s also possible that people just really like the game. It’s okay if you don’t like it, but don’t try to discredit the many people that do. And Metroid has never been an exploration type of game. It’s intentionally linear. Super Metroid was the same. And it’s not a bad thing.
Strongly disagree, already played through it twice. Next I have to figure out how to sequence break. My only nitpick is the music is mostly ambient but forgetable, best music was the Super Metroid tunes put into cutscenes. Other than that, ranks up there with Super Metroid, SotN, Hollow Knight, Ori 2 as one of the greats in the genre. Bosses are epic, controls are smooth, EMMI's were new along with a few power ups and mechanics.
Glad you liked it.
How the heck are you justifying such lack or exploration and linearity in a metroid game? This isn't even close to the metroidvanias you mentioned.
@@hepzibahhez9965 no, in many ways, its actually better. The use of buttons for like every ability rather than constantly using a separate screen to manage it. I only switched screens for the map. Also the last true new 2D Metroid game was Fusion and that was way more linear than Dread and didn't even let you go back at in
certain areas.
It does really guide you along, but honestly it did make it enjoyable. Seems to be the way with modern games to add hand holding. I whole heartedly support this game, I want more of this, loved it. I found the EMMI sections frightening and intense, maybe I’m just a baby.
@@l-wook EMMI sections had good sound design too where you can hear them with the beeping sound effects and then when it spots you it plays that music, which most music in the game is pretty forgettable, but they nailed the sound design on the EMMI sections. I luved this game.
Each, their own. I played Super Metroid around the time it came out on snes, played Metroid 2 afterwards. Played Zero Mission later on and the hell out of Fusion.
This game was an absolute fix on the type of gameplay and sequel I waited for years since Fusion and it makes me so happy to see how much positive attention and praise it's received since launch. My 2nd Favorite Metroid of all time. (Super will always be #1).
I’m happy it lived up to your expectations
Your perspective is interesting and totally different than mine. The atmosphere / sound effects and how alive the enemies and world felt made me fall in love instantly. The sound track and effects are top notch, 10 out of 10 for me. It almost felt like I was in an action movie scene with the music at times reminiscent of the Predator or aliens. Fantastic!
I also thought the flow of this game was perfect. Never really had to back track to find where I was going or felt lost. It felt open but they guided you very well to the next objective.
I agree the Emmis are kinda annoying but very satisfying to get rid of those damn things.
Controls are slick but sometimes too many buttons like you said. I will agree with that.
Anyway. Thanks for your review!
Thanks for watching!
Yeah, Metroid is massively overrated. No where near a Super Metroid, a 7 out of 10 at best. There were there a few good things, but overall was very janky in a lot of parts of the game. Music is the worst in the series, controls are horrible.
Your honesty and not caring about pandering to the public's opinion are the reasons why I love your videos. Awesome review!
I appreciate that!
Most of these complaints apply to all Metroid games, in fact some of these things are more of a problem in the old games. She probably wouldn’t like the other Metroid games. Metroid Dread is one of, if not my favorite Metroid game. So I was surprised to hear of these complaints.
I have never understood why Nintendo stopped doing the Player's Choice re-releases at a cheaper price then resumed them late in the 3DS life cycle only to stop them again for the Switch. I haven't played this yet and doubt I will any time soon because I usually only buy Metroid games after a price drop. I think the only Metroid game I ever bought for myself full price was Samus Returns and that was me having the extra money to burn and getting it on a whim
I can respect your opinion for putting out valid points, even though I don't necessarily agree with most of them. Dread is almost the perfect 2d Metroid for me, I have replayed it almost 20 times on Normal mode, 5 times on Hard mode, 10 times on Dread Mode now, and 100%'d it 4 times. One thing I do somewhat agree with, the EMMI don't really feel scary or tense especially after mid game, unlike the SA-X in Fusion which was executed better because you never knew where or when it would pop out and I think overall Fusion has a stronger atmosphere than Dread. I am okay with the music, it seems forgettable but after playing the game a lot and listening to the soundtrack quite a few times I can appreciate it. But other than the points I mentioned I have no gripes with the game at all, they give you a choice to either take the short path, or backtrack your way if you want to. For example, after defeating Experiment Z57, there is a teleportal to the east of the elevator in Cataris which directly takes you to the Screw Attack. Now you can either take that, or now that the areas are unfrozen you can backtrack manually to Artaria, collecting items on the way and get Screw Attack that way. I like that, it's great that the game gives you options like that. And I might be biased because I like to speedrun through these games and oh my lord the game has sooo many sequence breaks (a lot of them are even intentional like early bombs for quick killing Kraid, or getting early Gravity Suit, while the game is open enough where you can toy around with the abilities and get many items out of order).
At the end of the day, gameplay is what matters the most to me personally so I'm happy with what I got out of Dread while I can also understand why people wouldn't like some other aspects of the game.
I loved Dread so much that it's a little surprising whenever I hear a lot of negative things said about it. It's pretty easily game of the year for me. Still, you had sensible enough reasons and not every game is going to please everyone. Good video as always.
Thank you!
@@Cannotbetamed1 - You baddy you. 😉
@@kane4228 🤨🤨🤨
19:00 I know you don't care about the story much, but there is a reason for that. *_[SPOILER ALERT]_*
The reason why "Adam" berates you like that is because after the game starts, that's not Adam. That's the final boss pretending to be him.
Yes, I finished the game, I know that. Doesn’t make the segments where you talk to him less irritating.
@@Cannotbetamed1I'm just now seeing this comment, 2 years later... But I'd be lying if I said I disagreed with you about the codec conversations. Fortunately, they are indeed skippable
I agree with all of this! You hit all the valid points. Emmis ruined it, needed more exploration, music was bland and yes level design just felt mehhh. They put too much resource into the emmi and cutscenes, created kind of a cheap experience. A lil too rushed imo
I finished the game yesterday and since then I have been trying to put my thoughts and feelings into words.
These are also my thoughts about the game.
The gameplay segments with the EMMIs becomes repetitive after you have beaten the second or the third one, instead interrupting the rest of the game as you have to deal with yet another one.
The maps are just very uninteresting and as soon as you pick up a power up that increases you mobility segments of it are locked off until late in the game, making you unable to go for addition missiles or energy tanks that would give slightly more of a fighting chance against the bosses.
I also don't like the shift from exploration to combat.
I am glad I finished this game with all the collectibles as it means I will not have to play this game again, and I am someone who still starts up Fusion, Zero Mission, or the Prime games from time to time.
Have you played any of the the FromSoftware games??
I played some of Echo Night Beyond.
@@Cannotbetamed1 haha. Play dark souls or something and review that. I’d be very curious to hear your take
Great review, you make great points, zealous fanboys are always annoying dont mind them when honeymoon period is over things will be clear again and your review was great!
Thanks!
The EMMIs are the worst experience ever. I dont even want to keep playing because of them.
lack of atmosphere... "graphics were proficient" completely concur.. soundtrack was not good. I play metroid mostly for the vibe. What they accomplished with the fluid controls and the action though, were very good.
As a person who really loves the game, I find myself disagreeing with your analysis of the environments and the story because I really enjoyed those elements. However, I understand your complaints and I can see why people do not like these when compared to Super Metroid. I do agree with you on some of the abilities in the game and how to control them as that has made the game much more complicated to play. I really appreciate your honest analysis on the game and I am sorry to hear it did not meet your expectations. Looking forward to your next review.
Agreed. I loved Metroid dread. I think the mechanics and controls are sublime. They took every move that’s defines Samus and simply refined them to perfection. She moves so fluidly. And the addition of the air dash is wonderful. I can’t think of a 2D game with better controls than Dread.
I can understand why some complain about the environments. They’re not as obviously defined when compared to a game like hollow knight. Each zone is very unique and distinct. But I think dread took a more realistic approach and I can appreciate it.
I think my only criticism is it’s short length and lack of things to do after completion (I.e. new game plus, boss rush, etc). But maybe they’ll do a DLC later if the sales are good.
If only more comments could be like this, a respectful disagreement that acknowledges the validity of the creator's point of view.
@@derekarnold9 Air dash was introduce on Mega Man X. Close to 30 years now. I don't find that innovative on dashing in midair. Next you know, they will introduce sliding (Mega Man 3) and gliding (super Mario world) on Metroid. Lol.
I am going to retry Metroid series again. Starting with Super Metroid and then Zero mission as some people suggested. I couldn't get Metroid back during NES days. I am a Mega Man fan though.
It's her critique of the game. I try Zelda Bow and I have harsh words on it because I am also not a fan of Zelda. I compare it to many open worlds that has been there. People blasted my criticisms on it. If you take off the nostalgia feelings and critique by the game itself, then you see the flaws.
@@derekarnold9 perhaps Mario 3 is sorta like gliding. Not sure though but floating up and steadily going down.
Or Joust.
Finally, someone else agrees. The game was a solid 8. Matter of fact, a great 8. But NOT 9's and 10's.
Edit: For anyone like Pure Evil who seemed confused by my statement of agreeing with Cannot be Tamed yet giving it a score of a great 8, please scroll down to my response to Pure Evil. I hope that clears things.
So it's in the top twenty percent of games quality but is meh??
I haven't played it but that's weird logic
@@pureevil9496 people can't get themselves into games anymore....but maybe that's not fair....maybe it's because they're now....30-40 years old? Also...we've got decades of games behind us now. The way to overcome it is to make a distinct effort not to be a hypercritical prick. Getting your head in the game as an active player, something kids are able to do effortlessly, is the key to this....as opposed to being some board emperor slouched in a chair expecting the game to instantly induce some orgasm. And people have this fucked up view of numbers. "Meh" is like....a 5/10....or a 6. Fucking 8 means you almost love it!! Obviously, numbers aside....if a person thinks its "meh" they think it's "meh" and they've deprived themselves of an awesome time. Chances are....they don't enjoy much, are pissed at most of what they play, and sadly, think they're tastes represent the upper echelon of the industry and are thus necessary to improve it.
I’d put it around a 6 myself.
Pure evil...A agree with Cannot be Tamed except for final rate of 6. Now to be perfectly honest, a 6/7 rating IS INITIALLY what I was going to give it. But I had to remind myself to try and judge it from a modern view. Meaning, I game back all the way to the Atari 2600. From then to the PS2, Gamecube, OG XBOX era was when, for me, that gaming was still magical and enthralling. Unless a game was utter crap, you could find some type of enjoyment in them. From PS3, 360 and Wii era, I've had to take the gaming industry with a big ass grain of salt. I had to learn to adjust my taste or no longer enjoy gaming period. What took it from my 6/7 to a great 8 was this.
1. Simply the fact that we finally have another Metroid, although I'd preferred Metroid Prime 4.
2. No day one patches because of glitches and other game issues of the like as alot of games in the last few generations.
3. You got the FULL game UPFRONT for your money, unlike many games of the last few generations.
4.That it was a respectable sequel to Fusion. How often do game or movie sequels fail to at least do some of justice to the original huh? A shit ton of them.
5. I judged it from the idea of the switch being a hybrid system. From a handheld standpoint it's more than enough. From a console, not so much. So I went with hand held in my final score.
Lastly, I know, barring a few minor exceptions here and there, that games won't be made with the umph that they once were from years past. So I tried to fairly judge it despite my boogie standards and nit picks against it and other modern games.
And to Cannot be Tamed, keep doing your thing Ma, I really enjoy your content.
I haven’t played the game yet, but hopefully you aren’t battered with “HOW DARE YOU DISAGREE WITH ME!” in the comments; honest takes should never be frowned upon and it’s your opinion.
There are a few of those
I respect ur review but I totally disagree. The Emmi’s seemed to irritate you the most. I, on the other hand, felt those sections were a great change of pace. Yes Samus is an amazingly awesome badass but there ain’t much fun if you can trample over everything without any type struggle.
And then the moment you acquire the Omega Blaster, you finally feel the playing field has been leveled. You then encounter it again and begin melting away the shield as it slowly creeps toward you. THEN, u try to charge the shot and blast the eye while it’s inches from you… It felt exhilarating and super rewarding.
Although I never got stuck, the one thing I can understand is blocks hiding the path forward with no indication to shoot them. I guess my indicator was the enemies on the the other side of the blocks at times and my previous Metroid-game experiences.
But again, I respect your take and I highly appreciate you supporting it by buying a copy, increasing the chances for us Metroid fans to get another game.
Finally someone isnt mindlessly showering the game with praise great review, im very conflicted on the game myself, the controls, boss fights and movements are absolutely amazing but the the atmosphere, lack of interconnected world, exploration and reliance on teleportation instead of having good level design like in super metroid was really disappointing for me.
I have to disagree with that first statement, I think this game has extremely mixed reception were most people either love it or hate it. As far as first party Nintendo games go this is the most mixed I have seen a games reception. There are large amount of people (or at the very least an extremely vocal minority) who either don't like a lot of things in this game or just hate it.
89 score on metacritic is not “mixed” reception my friend
Like I said it might just be a very vocal minority but I have heard a lot of people express dislike for this game. I don't think you can go somewhere on the internet were people are talking positively about the game and there isn't someone coming into the conversation saying it is bad or not as good as other Metriodvanias. But yeah I'm talking about reception among fans, metacritic may reflect on the reception a bit, but metacritics kinda wack so yeah.
@@zachcoats4849 im really interested to know which sites are you talking about?
the game got such high praise that even the user score is at 8.7 which is kind of mind blowing, just take a look at how Botw was review bombed, even RDR 2 and pretty much all forums put it in such a high pedestal where i have even seen it beating super metroid in polls and almost every constructive criticism post on reddit is downvoted to oblivion.
@@نونيم-ي4ح i think that the first few areas are good for exploration but as they game goes on it feels more and more linear until the exploration became a bad thing for the speed of the game and exploring is wasted time because you already have missiles and theres less proper boss fights that require yo to go back and get upgrades
Although I disagree with it, this is a very nice and well done review, specially considering you didn’t script it.
I think it is interesting that you didn’t like most of the things that make this Metroid different from its predecesors like EMMIs, exploration changing if you do certain things (like pushing boulders), interactive cutscenes, more story narrative, etc.
I got the feeling you were looking for a Super Metroid 2 instead.
I completely agree with secret items being boring, they are always missile/bomb expansions or energy tanks. Sadly this is something all Metroid games have in common.
In any case, I really enjoyed your video
Thanks!
Good review. I agree with you about the cutscenes and music - it’s a disappointment. Although I did quite enjoy the exploration aspect and the combat, especially the bosses
For me Super, Fusion and Zero mission are much better games though
I disagree I think Donkey Kong is the greatest game ever.
@@John_Lee_ LOL.
Thanks so much for watching!
What exploration? The game has NO exploration. Its a linear experience through and through.
@@hepzibahhez9965 Like every Metroid game, it’s optional how you want to move through the world. You can backtrack and get off the critical path, and if you’re really good at these kinds of games then you can sequence break. Metroid has never been open-world, but it’s always been semi-linear.
You give the courage to speak your mind, overcome dread and face down the EMMI'S.
A well balanced look at this latest release in the franchise.
That is for the inspiration.
I played Super Metroid when it came out. It was wondrous. It's one of my favourite games ever.
Dread is a dumpster fire in comparison.
Linear to the point of being boring and the EMMI is frustrating garbage.
It doesn't inspire dread or horror, it inspires apathy and tedium with a repeated one hit kill mechanic.
Most disappointing game of my life in all honesty.
Agreed 100% here! Borrowed it to try and I'd had enough within an hour. Hated the lack of d-pad movement, and the EMMIs killed it when it became clear they were going to be a central feature throughout. Thankfully indies have risen up to follow on from the old classics :)
Yep, indies are where it's at for these kind of games.
So strange that the dpad was a sticking point for you as the fluidity of the controls was incredible. It's rare that a game controls as well as Dread.
Spicy take from Pam!
I respectfully disagree with your opinion but to each their own
Oh man finally a review that is similar to my feelings on this game.
It has 2 unique bosses. Water thing, which has similar moves as others, and end boss. Every other boss is a variation of another enemy, or Kraid, which is the best boss in the game.
Imagine if EVERY boss has sequence skips and special scene rewards for different power ups and specific moves like Kraid does.
The game fights backtracking as hard as possible, turning any of it into faceplanting into a locked door. It shoves you forward into the next train, elevator or teleporter.
New moves don't really get a chance to shine and end up being color key cards more than anything.
Even tho I liked the emmis I agree the cloak was dumb, and was a key card 75% of the time at least.
I sincerely don't know why ppl call it GOTY. Just starving for a new entry I guess.
Definitely should have been $30-$40.
They did make it great for speedruns, but this is not a $60 game with $60 effort to me.
Huge Metroid fan here, but Metroid Dread was massively overrated. it's a decent to good game, but not great.
I actually agree with the 'soulless' atmosphere. I love this game but I love Super Metroid more just because of the atmosphere and the feeling of isolation. Also I fucking hate ADAM.
I really appreciate what you're saying here, and also how you say it. I felt the same about your Super Metroid review: measured, normal, and not over-the-top, comedic or performative like most of the big content reviewers on TH-cam. It's very calm and relaxing, but you also have new or interesting things to say about the game, like how the art style projects a sterile feel to the game, which I agreed with immediately. It's something I also recognized, but never focused on until you pointed it out.
You can't please everyone, no matter what game it is, or food, or art, its allllllll personal preference. Just happy Dread is pleasing so many people and just getting people TALKING about Metroid!
You speak the truth.
I personally think they nailed it and I'm a long time Metroid fan. My least favorite aspect was the EMMI. I get you wanting to use the d pad but the aiming would have been ruined. The atmosphere was nice imo but I agree it could have been more desolate and alien feeling but that goes back to the lack of details from previous titles that left that impression. Overall I thought it was great though and very fluid feeling. I get your nitpicks but still feel this is one of the best sidescrollers I've played even compared to sotn. To be fair I went into this thinking this would be terrible and was pleasantly surprised.
Most games let you control with both the dpad and the stick, so it wouldn't have ruined anything.
Thanks for this great review Pam and also great to see the crybaby fanboys in the comments 😂 This is just like the Kid Chameleon video! You will have plenty of material for a new Mean Comments video 👍
Not even played it but any footage alone just made it look like a very uninspired game imo. The whole visual look and design has something very generic and soulless about it--which I typed before even watching your video. It's partly due to the horribly plasticky look to everything because of the way they've textured it and whatever shader they are using to apply the overall lighting at stuff. I honestly really hate when artists basically half-ass it and try to get the computer to do the work via some algorithm that really doesn't know what looks great, rather than actually manually drawing amazing texture art and selectively giving everything just the right amount of reflectiveness or mattness and considering where every light source is going and what overall effect it has on the environment and just look of the scene and so on. This Metroid game, to me, comes across as very by the numbers in a lot of its art, design and production.
Bold as hell posting such a middling review of a currently beloved new release, mad respect. It's really interesting hearing the opinions of someone who's not super familiar with the series, since I'm a huge fan and every other person I've seen talking about Dread is the same way. One thing that I do think is user error is the EMMI kill cutscenes you hated so much. It *is* explained that if you're caught, you have a VERY tiny chance to parry an EMMI attack, it's borderline frame-perfect, and the timing of when the attack happens is randomized. So those cutscenes, instead of just killing you outright, give you a minuscule window to escape. Not understanding this mechanic certainly doesn't hurt enjoyment of the game much, but I'm surprised you didn't luck out and pull it off a single time outside of the first EMMI you encounter where the game tells you how it works, before Adam goes into more detail in a later Network Room.
Yes, I know you could escape the EMMIs with the parry, there’s footage of me doing it in the video, and I talk about it too. But the timing is so tight it happened like 1/10 of the time. I’d rather just die and try again that have to keep watching that scene.
If I had never played Hollow Knight I would have been a lot more into Metroid Dread. I liked Dread a lot, but it is nowhere near as good as Hollow Knight. I grew up on NES, SNES, and GBA Metroid games, but Hollow Knight just raised the bar beyond what this game aims for
I'm commenting as I watch and you say the load times are long. I mean are the ssd fast? No, but I'd say there isn't anything longer than a minute.
It's loading the entire next section, including any new things that need to happen. I understand why load times are a little longer than normal.
BOTW had some serious load times too.
Fair enough. Although definitely not perfect it still ended up being my favorite Switch title to date. I thought it was worth the cost but do wish the game was about 30% longer. My only other main criticism is the load times, I wish the transition to each zone was only a few seconds. The shooting blocks to progress thing has always been a Metroid staple, I am guessing most people with this complaint don't have much experience in the series. Is it good game design? Maybe not but I wasn't surprised by it.
Late game you just feel like a complete badass and I love the amount of attitude that Samus has in this iteration. I also never care about being a competitionist but I felt compelled to collect everything in the game to 100% all the zones. I almost never replay games but I can see myself replaying this many times just like I did with Super Metroid.
Holy crap, when some of the classic music themes come up I was getting goosebumps on top of goosebumps. Just so good, IMO.
Dread was supposed to be a 3ds game. And it shows. Its short. Its 2.5. And its polished beyond reason. Looks like a remastered 3ds game.
For me its a great game, worth as much as I have paid for it which is USD 60.00
Its well polished, has great mechanics and gameplay, interesting boss battles (this includes the EMMI's cause in my opinion they are bosses just not in a traditional sense), Great exploration and item finding to get the 100% and to top it of has many, many moments where Samus is being a badass.
I've 100% it in 10hrs on normal and going to be back for more!
Glad it's giving you what you wanted.
It’s a fine game, probably for us bitter and old gamers it’s not much, we’ve seen it before.
yeah way overrated for me, no where close to Super Metroid.
@@glow4417 Super Metroid is probably top 2 Metroid game made though. It's between Super Metroid and the first Metroid Prime that's the best. I consider Metroid Dread probably 4 or 5 out of all the Metroid games.
Like many of your takes on popular games, I couldn't agree more. Great review!
Thanks!
First of all I appreciate the honesty in your review, you do have many valid points.
Here's my take
I'm surprised you found the map confusing.
I actually think it's was too straightforward. The path it's too obvious, generally there's always a teleport or transport close to you. And also the map gives too much info.
Because of that I did 100% in 10 hours.
Anyway, I agree about the soundtrack. It's pretty bad comparing to other Metroid games. Nintendo didn't even gave options to adjust the volume lol
Also, it didn't make me feel the "Dread" ; not even the EMMIS.
Other ones such as Super, Prime 2 or Fusion gave much more "Dread" than this game.
Maybe because, instead of having "EMMIS" moments, they actually constructed the atmosphere with the level design, the visuals and the soundtrack alone.
Then there's the price.
While the game encourages you to sequence break, it's not even near to the crazy amount of content that Hollow Knight and even old games like Symphony of the Night had. Indeed, 60 dollars is way too much for this.
Overall though I liked the game a lot, for me it's was an awesome experience.
I didn't find the map confusing, I found it convoluted. The teleportals broke it up and the fact that paths kept closing behind you (or dumb fire plants would just pop up out of nowhere) made the game very linear.
@@Cannotbetamed1 I'm sorry, English is not my first langague so I didn't understand that sentence correctly.
Anyway you are right about that, the teleportals and the things blocking the path made it very linear.
Sometimes the older Metroid games were also linear.
However, unlike Dread, they didnd't make it very obvious, so the player still need to think and really explore the map to advance in the game.
As much as I really enjoyed this game, it is a breath of fresh air to see a more critical review of it and you made a lot of good points on why you didn’t like certain aspects of it. Glad you gave it a try and good job on the review.
Thank you!
You are the queen of hot takes lol
Personally, I loved this game. The only complaint I had if anything was how frustrating some of the shine sparks were, they kept me from going to 100% completion and I ended up stopping around 90% instead. I actually felt a lot of what you didn’t like about the game made it a lot more interesting than the typical Metroidvania. I loved the graphics and the all the cut scenes especially in the boss fights, it just made them feel epic. I also really liked the story, but considering you never played Fusion I can see you losing something there. I also, just generally thought the combat was amazing and the boss fights were really fun. I could definitely get your point about the E.M.M.I.s. I definitely didn’t like them as much as the boss fights, but I did think they created an interesting dynamic and I liked the cat and mouse puzzles they added. If I were to rate it, I’d give it about a 9.5 out of 10.
I 100% understand where you're coming from on the shine spark. I came to appreciate the shinespark puzzles, though that might have been because none of them were *too* hard once you understood the mechanics, and also because there were only a handful of shine spark puzzles in the game. But I think it's borderline bad design that there are subtle nuances to the shine spark that are never explained (such as the ways to maintain momentum, and that sparking into a slope resets your state), and one of the things Pam criticized--the lack of D-pad control forcing us to use the analog stick for all movement--didn't help. I didn't have as much trouble as I was anticipating storing the energy in tight situations by pressing down, but it's definitely more cumbersome on the analog sticks than it would be on a D-pad.
If you ever do decide to go for 100%, I'd suggest looking up videos on the nuances of the mechanics - they're not all that difficult once you understand how to keep momentum, how to activate mid-spin-jump, etc. I get not wanting to hold people's hands, but the shine spark is such a chaotic ability that some prompting on what is possible with it would have been appreciated.
@@j.b.1903 It is really mostly because the Shinespark in Burenia that I stopped going for 100%. I had gotten 100% in all of the other regions aside from Ferenia at that point. That one shinespark just made me stop, so I actually did most of of them. The controls for shinesparks are just a bit clunky and when you have to chain multiple together....
It's a sequel to Fusion so I'd recommend playing it after that.
That's fair regarding cutscenes, it's just taken for granted with non-indie games since the early '00s or so but I hate being interrupted by them, especially in a genre that can and should do environmental storytelling instead.
Great review. I got into metroid recently so the cut scenes so it really doesn't bother me but I understand your point. The control feels great, having an option of using d-pad would be good since a lot of players use that, though its not really for me because pro controller dpad sucks. The music isn't a standout but everyone said that to Zelda BOTW when it was released maybe it'll grow on me. Emmi are just fine, nintendo could've amp it up,. The addition of invisibility cloak is fine, there are new players who aren't really that good so it would be handy. And the price being $60 for me is justified for its quality. To be fair, games from NES are priced $40 back then so games are cheaper today, so it doesn't really bother me.
I dunno, using an 8-direction-only D-pad would seriously hinder your directional shooting, and aiming actually. The game seems made around the smoother analogue aiming, justifying it being analogue stick only.
Also, I hear back in 1985, NES games WERE $60. (Before they went down later.) I even saw a commercial for the original Sonic the Hedgehog game, and it used to be $59.99 too in 1991.
Games were always expensive.
BOTW had a lot of beautiful melodies, unlike Dread.
The E.M.M.I.'s ruined it for me. I can handle them. I usually stun them 1-in-3 times, and they're easy to evade once you get the hang of it.
I still hate them. It's just like the platforming in Doom Eternal. It's a thing I don't want, don't need, and didn't ask for. No need for a pass/fail stealth mechanic in this kind of game imo
Ugh, first person platforming in Doom, dont remind me.
I'm late to the party but always a good day when Pam uploads. 👍
I can respect your opinion on this. You made some points that I thought myself for things. The most recent Metroid games have definitely been MercurySteam's Metroid, rather then Nintendo's Metroid. And there are both benefits and sacrifices for that. One of those things being that item collection is much easier and the games are more hand holdy, something I lament but others think is great.
I was ok with the cutscenes, being someone invested in the overall Metroid story, but I can see how they are invasive. But cutscenes have always popped up in Metroid since Super Metroid, although less frequent of course.
I was also not happy about not having toggle options for the game. Yes, you can change control settings for the Switch, but that's really annoying considering it should be an option within the game itself.
Also, I agree, I think there should have been more post game content for the price point. But who knows, maybe they'll add some dlc down the line. Nintendo has been doing this lately with games, something I'm not a fan of personally but seems to be the future of gaming as a whole. Sorry you did not enjoy the game as much. I enjoyed it but as you said, some of the navigation going through the game is annoying. But having beaten the game once, it's better the next time. You can have more gun messing around and trying new stuff.
Lastly I'll say, after the first playthrough, facing the EMMIs are not as bad. I honestly find myself just cruising through the rooms now.
Good video Pam.👍
Thanks!
Interesting gripes. Personally loved the game. Only issue I felt was the music, wish it could of done a bit more. And getting my hands to grasp my controller properly was another I suppose haha. Definitely not overrated by any means. This is a metroid game through and through. The gameplay, art, lore and atmosphere was amazing. Sad to hear you didn't find it that great. To each their own.
Same! Found it left much to be desired. Good music helps you remember the moments it was attached to. It can amplify the experience in positive ways. Felt Dread's soundtrack was deadening, almost soulless. Which was a shame since Samus Returns had some amazing music. What happened Mercury Steam? They put their heart and soul into everything else, thankfully!
This is a great review, and nice to hear my views on the EMMIs and the generally mixed-results/disappointing nature of this game reflected here.
WOOOOOOOOOW!!!! You TORE this apart!!🤣🤣 I read the header and the knife plunged into my heart🤣🤣 You are a TOUGH critic!! I don’t have a Switch but, I was considering it just for this game (I did it before for Metroid Prime Trilogy). I still might in the future when I have time. Excuse me now for I must go remove the knife 🤣🤣🤣
Make sure to put pressure on the wound afterwards.
@@Cannotbetamed1 🤣🤣🤣‼️‼️
Agreed with a lot of what you say, it's a decent metroid game, not the worst but certainly not the best
I understand your gripe with the game. EMMIs were a bit rough and speed booster got me at least 10 times. All I can say is running > Cloak.
Dread is a combo of all the Metroid ideas over the years. Samus returns and Fusion having the most impact. Fusion had hella bosses, the SA X stalker enemy and Returns added the cinematics. I loved both of those so dread was right up my alley.
That's cool, glad you liked it
@@Cannotbetamed1 I would like to know what is your favorite game in the genre?
Hollow Knight
People keep gushing on it like mad. It seems like it's what I assume it to be...more Metroid! Which to me is a good thing but I don't think it's worth all the online "it's the greatest game everrrrr" sploogeorama I'm seeing. I want it but not for 60 bones. SMT V on the other hand is definitely going to get bought.
it's opinion... She only played S Metroid and barely liked it, which is considered one of the best 2d games ever made... Not everyone will like the same things.
@oasisbeyond I liked Super Metroid a lot. Please stop making shit up.
I honestly agree 100%. Especially about the EMMI's. And toggling the missiles would've been wonderful.
Yep. I got them red to fire and when I'm about to fire, EMMI got me. I hated that cut scene. Just kill me without letting me look at that drill killing me. I get it.
Thank you for your honest views as always, Pam!
You are so welcome!
I happened to really love the game, but you're definitely not wrong with the points you made. I thought the whole "stealth" aspect in a Metroid game was annoying, even if in limited spots. And when they make you do it underwater (pre-gravity suit) in at least two areas I remember, that's just a special kind of sadistic torture.
And going back for the optional upgrades hardly seemed worth it for anyone but hundred percent completionists. Having to execute a complicated Spinespark maneuver just for a few more missles or a bit more energy was too much of an ask.
Again, I tend to love Metroid games, warts and all. But I can see why others may be turned off.
Haha, you're right, underwater stealth was SO slow.
I loved this game but you have some good points.
I really wanted a Boss Rush mode where I can replay the boss fights because now that I realize it, that’s mainly what I enjoyed.
A boss rush mode would be good
I wasn't super hyped about the $60 price tag. Growing up playing Metroid since the NES days, and seeing much better metroidvania games come out at much lower prices, I couldn't fathom how Nintendo thought it was okay to charge full price for the new one.
After playing it... I'm still not sold. It was an okay game, it wasn't bad at all. But it took me 7 hours to beat and I have no desire to replay it on hard mode. For $60 and two days of gaming, I can't recommend this at full price at all. The amount of content compared to dollar cost just isn't there. This shouldn't have been more than $40 in all honesty. But all the "game of the year" talk about this game is not justified at all. I can't believe anyone would even consider it as a GotY contender.
People don't like this game because of how hard it is I believe , you have to look at the backgrounds , notice hidden stuff. All of it is good I don't under the hate but its not for you but don't say it's bad just because it isn't
@@Egood_ty I never said it was bad. As a matter of fact I said it wasn't bad at all. What I said is it's not a GotY contender and it shouldn't have been $60. Two days worth of gaming for $60? Seriously?
@@danbooke2001 it took me a week to beta it it depends how much of a "gamer" you are or skilled
Yeah sixty was a neck slam
Nintendo doesn't really support those kind of gamers often
I can so relate about your opinion about the EMMIs. I think I died to every one at least once and a lot to some to the point where I was already prepared for it going into a new zone which got super annoying as you can imagine. I felt like it was a great idea but could have been done better. I really enjoyed the game regardless and your points are fair and honest which I appreciate and I can see where you're coming from. Great review! :)
Thank you!
I've only played about 10 hours of Metroid Dread (going slowly too, so I'm not very far into it), but I've loved it so far. I played Metroid as a boy, then Super Metroid around 1995. Those games blew my mind and I still love playing them. Same with Metroid Prime, Zero Mission, and Fusion. Anyways, I love the precise controls, awesome map, upgrades/weapons, sounds design, smooth 60fps visuals, tension of EMMI areas, relaxation of escaping said areas, and much more in Metroid Dread. It will probably be my favorite game released this year (especially since Advance Wars has been delayed till 2022). I'm looking forward to watching all of your video about it, but I don't want to have bosses or late game power ups spoiled so I'm going to wait.
Also, I ordered the 2 CD soundtrack of Symphony of the Night from Japan. I played and absolutely loved the game back when it first came out. I liked your comment that you enjoyed every single song during your playthrough.
I've not played it but most say they complete the game within 7 hours and 100% everything by 10-12 hours
So I'm surprised your not very far after 10. Just saying 😉👍
@@ZamWeazle Part of it was that I lost my save when switching to a new OLED Switch. Metroid Dread is the only game save I screwed up and lost. I'm happy about it though because it's the kind of game I enjoy starting over from the beginning (like Breath of the Wild, Kingdom New Lands, Super Mario Bros, and several others). I take my time with games I really like. I've got over 10 hours logged with A Short Hike, and still enjoy playing more sometimes.
@@GradyKallenbach I think I'm similar, I think. I take time to slowly go through and appreciate the game. I don't blaze through it to get to the end as quickly as possible. 👍
@@ZamWeazle Yeah, I just got to the "pig in chains" as a woman called it in a comment on this video and I'm at around 15 hours with Metroid 5. So I'm way behind schedule according to the how long to beat website. It took me 130 hours to beat Witcher 3. I usually pretty slow at games
@@GradyKallenbach Actually with Witcher 3 because of all the side quests it can take easily as long.
Hollow knight apparently takes around 25 hours to beat. It took me about 80 hours although that was half the side quests too. I'm 109 hours in last tine I checked and still got Trial Of The Fools and most of the pantheon battles still to beat so I'm wayyyy behind or just rubbish lol
As someone who genuinely enjoyed playing Dread from beginning to end- moreso than Super Metroid even- I just have to say...... Bravo. This is how you give a negative/mixed review. I may disagree with a lot of what you said, but your points are coming from a place of authenticity, and you're not being a Jaffe. That's all I can ask for with opposing opinions. I just hope the next 2D Metroid can be made with this feedback in mind so everyone can be satisfied with it.
I was totally with her with that cutscene.
Thanks so much!
@@Wingedmagician That's actually a good criticism to make. Some people were afraid they'd miss out on key events from previous games if they just started with Dread. If Sakamoto could put them at ease by saying it's not necessary to play through those games first, I don't understand how they didn't take into account the players who aren't interested in the story at all. Those cutscenes definitely should have been skippable at any time.