If I had to describe Samus Returns in one sentence, I'd say it's a "mechanically sound video game that uses none of its mechanics well".

It's like everything about this game specifically targeted everything I hate in video game design to cater towards me. I've never had such a negative reaction towards a game before. That said, I can't say it's a poorly designed game, I think free aim is a great addition to the series (albeit hindered by the imprecision of the 3DS circle pad), and from what I understand this game sets the framework for Dread (which I have not yet played as of writing this review).

It's not a bad game, I just hated it.