I'm sure some people groaned when they saw this thread title, but let's face it: Metroid needs to appeal to a wider audience. The original Metroid Prime is still the best selling Metroid game with about 2 million copies sold. The best numbers from Mario and Zelda completely dwarf this figure. With Metroid Prime 4 potentially being shown at the Game Awards in just two days, now is a good time to discuss this issue.
There is the intangible Switch factor to consider. The nature of having these console quality games on the go continues to be a big appeal to many people, and that will surely interest some more people. But I don't think that will have as big of an effect on Metroid as Mario or Zelda.
I think something that should be done is adding a hint system similar to the Sheikah stones in the N64 Zelda remakes for 3DS. This would help newer players not get lost in the expansive world by playing a short clip of what to do.
Taking a page from Samus Returns, an optional icon on the map showing the next location to go to after completing a major objective would be a middle ground for those who want some help but don't want to see exactly what to do.
Also, the difficulty of the game should be adjustable at any point. If players get stuck on a certain boss, they can lower the difficulty to make it easier to progress. Metroid has traditionally been hard, but I think this is a necessary step to get more people through the door.
Do you have any ideas on how Metroid Prime 4 can be more accessible to broaden its audience?
There is the intangible Switch factor to consider. The nature of having these console quality games on the go continues to be a big appeal to many people, and that will surely interest some more people. But I don't think that will have as big of an effect on Metroid as Mario or Zelda.
I think something that should be done is adding a hint system similar to the Sheikah stones in the N64 Zelda remakes for 3DS. This would help newer players not get lost in the expansive world by playing a short clip of what to do.
Taking a page from Samus Returns, an optional icon on the map showing the next location to go to after completing a major objective would be a middle ground for those who want some help but don't want to see exactly what to do.
Also, the difficulty of the game should be adjustable at any point. If players get stuck on a certain boss, they can lower the difficulty to make it easier to progress. Metroid has traditionally been hard, but I think this is a necessary step to get more people through the door.
Do you have any ideas on how Metroid Prime 4 can be more accessible to broaden its audience?