10 Incredibly Calm Moments In Otherwise Intense Games
8. Tallon Overworld Metroid Prime
One of the undisputed masterpieces of the GameCube generation, Metroid Prime delivered creative first-person gameplay and an immersive world that was simply begging to be explored. Metroid Prime takes place immediately after the events of the original NES Metroid game, with the series' beloved female protagonist, Samus Aren, chasing down Space Pirates in an effort to prevent them from using a genetic mutagen to create a super army that they could use to take over the universe. In the aftermath of the game's first boss battle against the Parasite Queen, players are tasked with escaping from a space frigate before it's destroyed, frantically navigating tight corridors while trying to avoid swarms of Parasites. During her escape, Samus encounters a cybernetic version of her nemesis, Ridley, and once she boards her Gunship she sets of in pursuit of Ridley, arriving at the planet Tallon IV. It's the initial arrival that's so wonderfully serene. Once Samus leaves her Gunship and players assume control of her the prospect of the game's open-ended world finally sinks in. The opening area is brimming with greenery and life. All around the player light rain falls, forming droplets on the player's visor while an ethereal synth piece plays in the background. There's no threat or sense of urgency; it's a moment to simply soak in your surroundings.
