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Metroid Dread gets a new update with the September 2021 Nintendo Direct ahead of its 8 October 2021 launch, this time sending Samus to Planet ZDR. You can get a good look at the creatures inhabiting this planet; from the mostly harmless Klaida, the flying Ply, and the more chonky Muzby. That’s also all only in one area, Artaria, where Samus awakens after being attacked by a mysterious and powerful Chozo figure.
TRANSMISSION FROM THE DEV TEAM
Artaria is where Samus begins her exploration of the planet. It’s a relatively large area but has many doors that she cannot open at the start of the game. You can revisit this area after making more progress through the game and acquiring additional abilities, so it may be a good idea to mark those spots on the map. You can also take screenshots using the Capture Button on your controller to keep a record.
Magma abounds in Cataris. Without the Varia Suit, which protects Samus from extremely high temperatures, you’ll take heat damage in many of the rooms here.
By circulating the thermal energy created from magma here, you can open new routes. In fact, if you carefully watch how magma moves within the circulation pipes, you can figure out the destination of the thermal energy. We think this might provide clues for exploring.
Dairon is filled with many robots believed to have been developed with advanced Chozo tech. The robotic enemies are protected by thick armor that’s only vulnerable to a Charge Beam or Missile, which means effective use of the Dash Melee counter is key to creating openings for attack.
Most of Burenia is under water, which can put Samus at a disadvantage. Her agility takes a hit when submerged while equipped with her standard Power Suit or the Varia Suit, which makes it tough for her to contend with zippy sea creatures. But remember, Samus can pull herself to magnetic surfaces by latching the Grapple Beam to them—a move that just might save your hide.
Civilization has left less of an imprint upon Ghavoran compared to other areas of ZDR, and the area’s appearance has thus been able to evolve in a natural way since ancient times. There are sections with small platforms that require continuous jumping, as well as partially submerged locations. Samus will have to use all her abilities and talents to the fullest when taking on this area.
Constructed objects and the natural world co-exist in the other areas, whereas the inside of Ferenia contains mostly buildings left behind by Chozo civilization.
What will Samus find among the ruins of this sanctuary? We don’t want to say too much—but know that Samus will go back and forth between this area and others throughout ZDR to continue her explorations.
