Wii impressions: Metroid Prime 3
The Metroid Prime 3: Corruption demo featured some nifty uses for the Wiimote-nunchaku tandem. We opened a sealed door by pulling the handle out (using the Wiimote), twisting counter-clockwise and pushing back in. Later, we grabbed hold of an enemy's shield with our grappling hook by using a casting motion with the nunchaku controller -- by holding down on the nunchaku's analog stick, we ripped the shield from the creature's grip. Both instances felt natural.
Unfortunately, general navigation wasn't nearly as satisfying, as it was marred by spotty connections between the Wiimote and the sensor. The key proved to be subtle movements, which took discipline, especially when in a hurry to turn around. Take note, FPS Wii titles will have a steep learning curve.
Prime 3 did have some of the best Wii visuals on display, but that isn't saying much. The controls need to be tweaked and made more reliable for this franchise -- and the FPS genre in general -- to succeed on the Wii platform. For now, we'd gladly trade the pointer for a second analog stick.
