The left-field approach taken by Team Ninja has created the most intriguing combination of action, story and mystique on the Wii thus far. Other M, set after Super Metroid, follows bounty hunter Samus Aran as she uncovers the mysteries surrounding the seemingly-abandoned space vessel known as the ‘Bottle Ship’.
The first half hour of gameplay leaves a bitter taste in the mouth. The action is drowned out by lengthy cut-scenes and the Wii Remote control scheme doesn’t make a good first impression. Using the control pad to move around in a 3D area feels clumsy at first, while pointing at the screen to enter 1st person view doesn’t feel comfortable during the opening action sequences of the game. Fortunately, the controls quickly become second nature and the action to story ratio becomes more balanced.
Fighting the many different enemies that Samus encounters is where the control system finally finds its feet. A quick tap of the control pad, as an enemy attacks, dodges the imminent danger in ‘Matrix’ style, allowing the bounty hunter to unleash a devastating counterattack upon the hapless foe.
The depth of the combat really dazzles when entering one of the many challenging boss fights. The player not only has to use reflexes and quick shooting; a strategy also needs to be implemented in order to be successful. It all makes finally beating that boss so much sweeter.
Dark and moody visuals create a suspenseful tone for the game making every corner an edgy and eventful experience. Unfortunately, the thrilling atmosphere of Metroid Other M doesn’t last for very long. The whole story can be played through in less than 10 hours, although collecting all of the items provides an incentive to continue playing.
Filled to the brim with action, atmosphere and tense moments, combined with a dramatic story, Other M provides an exciting and distinctive experience unlike any other game on the Wii.
