Metroid Prime 4: Samus's Motorbike Details Revealed!
Remember that Nintendo Direct where we finally got a release date for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond? Yeah, the one where they showed off Samus's new motorbike and everyone collectively raised an eyebrow? Well, it turns out Nintendo has been quietly dropping a few more details about this controversial mode of transportation.
So, the motorbike has a name: Vi-O-La. According to the updated Japanese website (spotted by VGC), you'll be using it to tear across the expanses of planet Byrus. I'm curious to see how this integrates with the classic Metroid exploration we all know and love.
Vi-O-La: Limited Access, Maximum Action?
It seems like you won't be able to just hop on the Vi-O-La and go wherever you please. Apparently, it's restricted to specific areas, and after your joyride, you'll be back to Samus's regular point of view. We did catch a glimpse of this in the release date trailer, if you remember.
When you are zooming around on the bike, Samus can boost, power slide, deflect enemies, and even crush ore deposits – talk about multitasking! Plus, you can fire projectiles, locking on to up to five enemies at once. The projectiles boomerang back to Samus, which is a neat little touch. I think that using the slide power to crush ores its a cool idea, that will give to the player a lot of options when explore the world.
And for all you amiibo collectors out there, the motorbike will also be available as an amiibo.
Look, I get it. The motorbike is a bit of a departure from the series' traditional slow-paced exploration, but I think it could be a fun way to mix things up. Whether it truly fits within the Metroid universe remains to be seen, but I'm willing to give it a shot.
Beyond the motorbike, Samus will also have psychic powers. These powers will be used to control mechanisms, open doors, and control beam trajectories. Psychic powers in Metroid? It's definitely something new.
With Metroid Prime 4: Beyond launching on December 4th, I'm eager to see how all these new elements come together. Will the Vi-O-La and psychic powers enhance the Metroid experience, or will they feel out of place? Only time will tell!
1 Video of Metroid Prime 4:
Source: EuroGamer