Metroid Dread Review: 7 Ups & 2 Downs
6. UP: The Gameplay Is Beautiful And Fluid
Even though the announcement of Metroid Dread returning to its 2D roots was welcomed by fans, some were concerned since Metroidvania games have exploded in popularity in recent years. Super Metroid was a masterpiece in its time, but with games like Hollow Knight, Bloodstained, Ori, and Axiom Verge dominating the sub-genre, it looked like Dread could get lost in the shuffle.
Thankfully, nothing could be further from the truth. The level design and battle mechanics have never been smoother. Samus' counter-attack and laser point have been carried over from the remake, Samus Returns, and are crucial to defeating certain enemies and bosses.
Although Dread feels like a true Metroid game, many elements have been added to the gameplay to keep things fresh. Even though quicktime events can break up gameplay, the sequences here amplify the gameplay, especially during the boss fights. Also, certain power-ups like the Speed Booster and the Cross Bomb are impressively precise, which allowed the creative team to conjure more complex and inventive puzzles.
In short, die-hard fans had nothing to worry about. Not only is Metroid Dread among the best games of the year, it's one of strongest entries in the entire franchise.