Metroid Dread

{
"short": "Metroid Dread is an action-adventure game in the Metroidvania genre where players control Samus Aran, evading relentless E.M.M.I. robots while uncovering the mysteries of planet ZDR. It offers fast-paced action and a compelling story.",
"long": "## Introduction\n\n*Metroid Dread* is a side-scrolling action-adventure game developed as a collaboration between Nintendo Entertainment Planning & Development, MercurySteam, and Nintendo EPD Production Group No. 7, published by Nintendo. It falls under the Metroidvania genre, emphasizing exploration and the acquisition of new abilities to access previously unreachable areas. Players control Samus Aran, facing off against the imposing E.M.M.I. robots, once research machines, now relentless hunters. The game's core gameplay revolves around evading these robotic threats while uncovering the secrets of planet ZDR and finding ways to defeat them.\n\n## Development & Release\n\nThe game was released on October 8, 2021, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch. Fumi Hayashi served as one of the directors. The development involved a collaboration between Nintendo and MercurySteam, known for their work on *Metroid: Samus Returns*. This partnership aimed to revitalize the *Metroid* series with a new entry that blended classic gameplay with modern design sensibilities. The game's development focused on creating a tense and suspenseful atmosphere, with the E.M.M.I. robots serving as a constant threat to the player. The game's side-scrolling perspective and emphasis on exploration are key elements of the Metroidvania genre.\n\n## Gameplay & Content\n\nThe core gameplay loop involves exploring the planet ZDR, navigating interconnected environments, and acquiring new abilities that allow Samus to overcome obstacles and access new areas. Players must evade the E.M.M.I. robots, which patrol specific zones and relentlessly pursue Samus. The game features a single-player mode, offering a focused experience centered on the narrative and exploration. The main objective is to discover what turned these robotic wonders into a threat and to escape with Samus's life. According to HowLongToBeat, a completionist playthrough takes approximately 13.7 hours.\n\n## Critical Reception\n\n*Metroid Dread* received highly positive reviews, earning a "Mighty" tier on OpenCritic. Critics praised the game's balance of nostalgia and innovation, as well as its cinematic flair and fast-paced action. Nintendo Life stated that \"*Metroid Dread* is a triumphant return for both Samus Aran and developer MercurySteam.\" GamesBeat called it a \"contender for game of the year,\" highlighting the enjoyable gameplay and the developers' respectful treatment of the *Metroid* franchise. VGC noted the game's \"near-perfect balance of nods to the past and fresh ideas,\" as well as a surprising story.\n"
}