Why Did Metroid Prime: Federation Force Fail?

So, opinion time!

Metroid Prime: Federation Force is a game that released almost a year ago at time of writing, to an almost overwhelming negative fan response; even though it mostly received ratings of average, from professional reviewers. Now that tempers have been cooled a little by the announcement of two more Metroid games for the Nintendo Switch and 3DS, I just wanted to offer some of my opinions on why this game was so divisive.

Now like I said, this is an opinion piece, not a factual analysis. This is just my opinion, given as a fan of the Metroid franchise.

1. The Long Wait.

When Federation Force was announced at E3 2015, Metroid fans had gone approximately five years without an entry in the franchise, so Nintendo could perhaps be forgiven for thinking they would be overjoyed a the news of a new game. Unfortunately, the game was a departure from the usual solo gameplay of the series, and without the regular lead. Nintendo might have been better served by repairing the damage many perceived as having been done to the series first. Which brings us to...

2. It Followed Other M.

In the eyes of many in the fandom, Metroid: Other M did a large amount of damage to the franchise, particularly to the main character herself, Samus Aran. The fact that players would not take control of Samus in this instalment may have raised some small concern for some. Likewise, the fact that Nintendo were attempting a spin-off with such different gameplay and graphical styles, when the main franchise was in a bad state, may also have left a negative impression. It may have been that fans wanted the main franchise stabilised, before spin-offs were attempted.

3. Interesting Premise, Mediocre Execution.

Now with opinion already set against it, Federation Force would need to pull-out some excellent gameplay; unfortunately, that was not to be. The game received thoroughly mediocre scores from reviewers, averaging only sixty-four percent on Metacritic. Not even close to enough to turn back the tide of negativity bearing down upon it. A game exploring previously unexplored aspects of the Metroid universe may have been intriguing, but not enough to overcome the bitterness that existed in the fanbase at the time.

To summarise, it is my opinion that the major problem with Metroid Prime: Federation Force, was one of timing. The idea of exploring new aspects of the setting, and seeing it through the ideas of someone other than our powerful main protagonist, may have been intriguing. Unfortunately, the game landed during a period of upheaval in the fandom, when fans were still upset at the previous game, and were antsy after so long with no news.

If the announcements were in reverse order, with Prime 4 and Samus Returns announced first, and Federation Force being announced afterwards, it may have received a more favourable reception. With the franchise in a more stable condition, fans would have been calmer, and more willing to walk off of the beaten path.

Until next time,

PhoenixAct.