Video game statues continue to be an apex collector item for fans of basically any video game franchise. From mass-produced options such as Funko Pops, to ultra-detailed, ultra-pricey replicas, the physical items continue to endure in popularity. Adding another iconic piece of gear to its catalog, collectibles company First 4 Figures has unveiled a first look at its Metroid Samus Aran helmet.
Launching in 1986, the Metroid franchise was one of the first games to feature a female protagonist. The atmospheric sci-fi series celebrates its 35th anniversary this year along with fellow Nintendo franchise The Legend of Zelda. Both franchises' upcoming titles were among those oddly missing from the Nintendo Direct, despite it having been over a year since the last one.
Revealed in a brief teaser video, the First 4 Figures Metroid Samus Aran helmet is revealed to be a life-size replica. The helmet appears to be designed after Samus' helmet as seen in Metroid Prime, an observation further solidified by the Metroid Prime logo on-screen in the lower right corner. Details surrounding the helmet essentially end there, but the spokesperson says a full reveal including pricing, availability, estimated release dates, and "much more" will be coming next week. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem to be a wearable helmet, appearing to be a solid-cast piece.
First 4 Figures is no stranger to producing Samus statues, offering a Varia suit Samus figure from Metroid Prime 2: Echoes last October. The statue came in two different models: standard and "exclusive." The exclusive model came with extra LED lighting effects throughout Samus' Power Armor, including the helmet, therefore making it highly plausible the life-size helmet replica will follow in its' footsteps. While the possibility of multiple versions is purely speculation, one thing is all but guaranteed - a high price tag. The Varia Samus models range from $450 to $490, so players should likely expect an equally top-dollar price point.
Despite not having a game released in four years, the Metroid protagonist remains a popular character. Recently, many fans believed that Samus was coming to Fortnite, given the battle royale title's current season has a focus on bounty hunters. While exclusive IP characters such as God of War's Kratos and Halo's Master Chief have entered the fray, there's been no actual indication that Samus (or any other Nintendo character) will be joining.
While details remain under wraps about Samus' helmet, all is set to be revealed on March 2 during the product's launch stream. However, the replica's likely sky-high pricing may make it unaffordable for a majority of gamers. Fortunately, another sci-fi franchise has its iconic helmet available, and for only $150. The recently announced Mass Effect: Legendary Edition CE comes with a replica N7 helmet, and yes, it's wearable.
Metroid Prime 4 is currently in development for Switch.