Metroid Prime is the proper evolution of Metroid
(N4G GameCube)

Ever since the release of Metroid Prime, fans have been debating 2D vs 3D Metroid, and the conversation inevitably reemerges with each new rumor of Samus Arans next adventure. Its really a silly debate: The 3D Metroid Prime formula is the natural progression of the 2D Metroidvania, and is objectively superior to it. This does not mean that a 3D Metroid game is superior to a 2D Metroid by exclusive virtue of the fact its in 3D, it simply means that 3D Metroid has a higher ceiling.