This fanmade Metroid 64 project looks amazing

We’ve talked about a number of fan-made demakes in the past, including PS1 versions of Bloodborne and Resident Evil 4. Then there’s retro-inspired games; games that directly emulate old-school aesthetics to create an original game (or a new game based on an existing property). One such project making the rounds on the Internet is Metroid 64.

Created by Mexican indie developer Luto Akino, it’s a fan-made project built in Unity that demonstrates what a Metroid game on the Nintendo 64 could have looked like. In its current state, Akino has implemented the basic movement, aiming, and shooting mechanics. With a basic level in place, it’s a fantastic-looking proof-of-concept.

See some footage of the game below, courtesy of Luto Akino on Twitter:

All about the Metroid 64 fan project

Akino has apparently been working on Metroid 64 for some time now. While it’s not exactly a demake as it’s not based on an existing Metroid game, it captures the feeling of the series very well even in its beta form. As it’s being developed for PC, it doesn’t have the jank you expect from an N64 game. That’s probably for the best in terms of making it playable.

It’s a fascinating look at what could have been. While an official Metroid 64 was never in development, Nintendo did reach out to an outside developer (which hasn’t been named) to see if they were interested in making it. Unfortunately, they declined — and Metroid wouldn’t get the 3D treatment until Metroid Prime in 2002.

Akino’s plan is to eventually release the game for PC for free. Of course, with projects like this, the worry is that Nintendo will take the project down, especially since it’s getting a lot of attention. (And yes, we’re not exactly helping in that regard.) Still, it’s a fantastic fangame that should not be ignored.

What do you think of the Metroid 64 gameplay demo? Do you wish Nintendo made an official Metroid game for the N64? Let us know!

Via Nintendo Life.