Why Metroid Prime is a work of art (Part 1)

For Part 2 and Part 3 go here:

(9) Why Metroid Prime 2: Echoes is a work of art (Part 2) : Metroid (reddit.com)

(9) Why Metroid Prime 3: Corruption is a work of art (Part 3) : Metroid (reddit.com)

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Introduction: Looking at Metroid Prime

To me the Metroid Prime series is a work of art. It has fantastic art direction, is expertly crafted and designed and the environments are brimming with fine little details wherever you look. In part 1 of this series, I talked about Metroid Prime 3, but now I'm going back to where it all started, Metroid Prime.

While the first game in the series has more earthy tones and textures, the design work and intricate details can be found everywhere. I would like to talk about some designs that stood out to me and why they can be considered art:

Planetary Backdrop:

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp1.png

The intro of the game is set on a damaged space frigate orbiting Tallon IV. The ominous planet looms in the background and really sets the stage for just how detailed the art direction is going to be. The amount of detail in the skybox is simply stunning!

The Chozo Statues are Briming with Detail:

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp2.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp3.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp4.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp5.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp10.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp8.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp11.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp12.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp13.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp14.png

Various unique Chozo statues can be found in the game. The statues in the Artifact Temple are all arranged in such a way as to stand guard over this sacred place, with blue lines of energy pulsing through their stone facades. Various other statues you find later on have incredibly detailed, inlaid line work with many designs even giving off mysterious illumination as they come to life. The architecture feels alien and really gives off a mysterious presence.

The many Beautiful Locations of Tallon IV:

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp6.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp7.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp9.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp15.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp16.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp17.png

The Chozo Ruins, Tallon Overworld, Phendrana Drifts and the Phazon Mines all have highly detailed artistic visons.

The Chozo Ruins have circular designs and tile work found in every square inch of its walls. The Tallon Overworld is briming with plant life and waterfalls. Phendrana drifts is a winter wonderland full of ancient architecture and bioluminescent cave walls. The Phazon mines have Giant luminous mushrooms stacked upon each other. All of this imaginative design work can be found in every hallway every corner of the environment. While most games have flat walls, Retro Studio puts amazing amounts of architectural and environmental detail into its world.

Looking Good Samus and your not so bad yourself Ridley!:

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp19.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp20.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp21.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp18.png

The amount of detail the Retro Studios put into Samus' design is also commendable. The suit's design is sleek while at the same time being highly elaborate. The Phazon suit is my favorite. The red lines of energy that run through it really give it some flair. And Ridley would like to say hello! The bosses in this game aren't lacking in aesthetic detail either. Just look at the detail that went into Redley's design!

The Small Little Details:

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp22.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp23.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp24.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp25.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp26.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp27.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp28.png

http://pdsoasis.github.io/mp29.png

Rain drops realistically falling on Samus' visor, swarms of moths, falling leaves, blowing sand, blinding steam, bug fluid, bug guts, and even being able to shoot the birds in the background. These are nice little touches Retro Studios added to bring the world to life and add even more detail to its varied environments.

In conclusion:

Metroid Prime set the foundation for the rest of the series. The design work that was laid out here eventually reached even higher levels in the sequels. Even in its simplistic environments full of ruins, ice, flora and fauna; Retro Studios managed to put insane amounts of detail in every hallway, every room and every open space. I have to give all of the talented artists credit for creating such a living and breathing canvas of art! See you next time in Metroid Prime 2: Echoes!