Okay, I finally got the game this past Friday. It's awesome, and I'm very satisfied with the playing style - I just finished normal mode today, in fact. Once I figured out how to balance using hypermode with other strategies, it was a breeze. Something I'm pleased with, actually, because I felt the other Prime games had a really sharp learning curve. The improved controls are much more intuitive, as we were promised.
Though, I can't say it feels too similar to the 2D Metroid series, anymore. The gameplay is still so much more sluggish with the FPS engine, especially with all the scanning you're required to do to figure out what the hell is going on. Similarly, the environments and storytelling style has gone so far off the original Metroid feeling. Also, what the hell's the deal with all of the voice actors mispronouncing Samus' last name; Aran? They must have all been from Texas, where Retro is based.
That said, I'm still incredibly satisfied with the game. I really loved Skytown, and the artistry displayed there. It (Skytown) vaguely reminded me of the Myst series of games, which have always had exceptional visual designs. The artists really shown through by the end of the game, with the design of
Spoiler Below the Space Pirates' home planet.
Everything there was textured and modeled
flawlessly.
A+