Metroid Database.com

The most recent bit of developer data we've located is the awesome concept gallery on the homepage of Danny Richardson, one of the lead artists for the Metroid Prime series. Richardson seems to have been largely responsible for the overall design of the trilogy, from the menu screens and HUD design (including the incredibly awesome X-Ray Visor) to many of the series' famous bosses, including Quadraxis, the Leviathan, the Aurora Unit, and various environments. Remember the awesome E3 2001 trailer? Richardson designed that, too! Just to prove he can do more than dark SF, those Donkey Kong Country Returns concepts are reminiscent of Disney animation cells! Given his portfolio and the influence his work had on the visual style for the series, Richardson should truly be considered one of the greatest artists in the industry. Thank you for all your great work, Danny!

One of the coolest elements of this page are several unseen images and concept art, including early HUD designs from Metroid Prime and what appears to be a Phazon-mutated Omega Metroid?! Could this be Project Dread? Kudos to Aaron from Nintendo World Report for the tip.

Until next time...
Captain Commando