Metroid Database.com

I've been getting word from people who have spoken with Nintendo reps over the past few days about Metroid's 25th Anniversary and whether the big N has anything planned for this. It seems 2011 is the Year of the Zelda, so the company is focusing all its efforts on Skyward Sword and Link's 25th birthday bash. Sadly, this means a second 25th anniversary (Metroid's) would compete with their marketing budget. This comes as a huge disappointment to Metroid fans, some of whom feel Metroid isn't being pushed more as the AAA IP it is (though in all honesty, it's difficult for anything BUT Mario to compete with Zelda. It's also not like Nintendo is openly celebrating Pokemon's 15th anniversary this year either...).

There's still a glimmer of hope, however, despite the quickly narrowing window: Metroid was released in the US on August 15, 1987, so there's a chance next year will see some major coverage. It's also possible Yoshio Sakamoto will get an interview on Iwata Asks as August 6 rolls around. Finally, August 26th marks the 20th anniversary of Metroid II, but considering there hasn't been a peep from Nintendo, it's looking likely Return of Samus won't see a re-release this year...

On the other hand, fans will be in full-force support for videogames' leading lady (still No. 1 despite the flack she's gotten from Other M). Let's just hope the Big N hasn't forgotten about her completely. After all, girls hate it when you forget their birthday...

Until next time...
Captain Commando