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Nintendo has published the second of its deep dive Dread Reports into the upcoming Metroid Dread. The latest entry focuses on what is sure to be Samus’ nemesis during the game, the robotic E.M.M.I.
Though we got a brief glimpse of them stalking our hero in the reveal trailer, we get a big infodump on their backstory here. Standing for Extra Planetary Multiform Mobile Identifier, in-universe the robots were originally dispatched by the Galatic Federation to research the series’ infamous X Parasite. However, they’ve somehow been corrupted, and by the time Samus encounters them, their singular focus is you.
The E.M.M.I. robots will roam designated E.M.M.I. Zones in one of three modes. It’s standard Patrol mode will see it exploring their designated area, but should they notice Samus’ presence will go into a Search Mode with a yellow light as they investigate. A red light means danger, as they’ve spotted you and are locked on to Samus, meaning you’d better escape sharpish.
Samus isn’t entirely defenceless against these foes, as she can strike back with a well-timed melee counter to buy herself precious few seconds to escape. She’ll also be able to use a new ability known as Phantom Cloak that renders her invisible and silent. However, you’ll also have to find a special type of energy called Aeion to use the ability without it draining precious health.
As for defeating the E.M.M.I. —of which there will be multiple types throughout the game— you’ll have to make it safely to the Central Units at the centre of each E.M.M.I. Zone. Reach them, and you’ll power up your standard Arm Cannon to become an Omega Cannon, the only weapon strong enough to defeat these foes.
Metroid Dread is currently scheduled to launch exclusively for the Nintendo Switch on October 9.
