Genre: Action platformer
Developer: Retro Studios
Publisher: Nintendo

Good art stands the test of time. In terms of video game technology, updating good art with a better resolution can help matters, which is the case with this collection, which updates all three aesthetically pleasing Metroid Prime titles with 16:9 aspect ratio and 480p support. From the classically varied original to the organic feeling of its sequel to the almost Halo-like, bloom lighting-filled third game, all three titles are pleasing on the eyes.

Retro's selection of music composers and audio studio direction led to a very definite pros/cons scenario that permeated all three games. On the positive end, the traditional Nintendo style of simplistic symphonic melodic status-quo constructions is played out to good effect, and even the voice acting in the third title is pleasantly understated and tactfully accomplished. On the negative, the entire aural experience is a bit muted, which causes the games to feel a little generic-- very contrary to the "Nintendo way" of heavy brand characteristicness!

It's amazing how much the three titles vary in gameplay styles, while still holding true to the same principles. The first title, with its heavy backtracking and traditional fire/ice/water world designs, is the throwback game in the series. The second opts for a darker and more linear approach to its design, while the third plays more like a straight shooter. In all three cases, the Wii control scheme and increased aspect ratio work wonderfully in tandem to make the shooting more precise and the platforming more enjoyable.

Among the long list of video game collections released over the years, Metroid Prime Trilogy must rank as one of the best of all time. Three solid action platformers with fantastic artistic qualities, updated with increased resolution, a refined control scheme, and complimented by wonderful galleries of unlockable fan-service material, make for a truly marvelous addition to the Wii's library.