History Creator / RetroStudios

The company was founded by [[VideoGame/{{Turok}} Jeff Spangenberg]] in 1998, after he left Creator/{{Acclaim}} and was given funding by {{Creator/Nintendo}} to create four new games for their upcoming UsefulNotes/NintendoGameCube system, targeting older audiences. Due to [[TroubledProduction incredibly poor management]], which included Spangenberg rarely appearing at the studio, Creator/ShigeruMiyamoto eventually stepped in to assess the damage. While disappointed in most of their work, Miyamoto was impressed by the work done for an action/adventure game called ''VideoGame/{{Metaforce}}'' and urged the team to create a new ''Franchise/{{Metroid}}'' title instead, set to be [[ToughActToFollow the first one since the genre-defining]] [[VideoGame/SuperMetroid SNES installment]]. Under Miyamoto's guidance and suggestions, every other project was cancelled, and Retro as a whole began focusing all their efforts on what would become ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime''. ''Metroid Prime'' was released in November 2002, and despite the aforementioned struggles, [[AndYouThoughtItWouldFail it became one of the most beloved titles for the system]], beginning a critically-acclaimed sub-series of {{First Person Shooter}}s. In the months before ''Prime'''s release, Nintendo would hastily acquire Spangenberg's controlling shares due to his terrible leadership and ousted him from the company (probably didn't help that he was hosting a softcore porn site on their servers), turning Retro Studios into a first-party developer for the Japanese gaming giant [[Creator/{{Rare}} just as another Western studio working with Nintendo]] was about to leave for Microsoft. For his part, Spangenberg would go on to make ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNIHAFaWck0 The Guy Game]]''. Make of that what you will.

For six years afterwards, it was a mystery as to what Retro Studios was working on, and those within the company were staying silent and unwilling to give any hints. Unless the [[https://twitter.com/RetroStudios/status/801548520046075904 occasional picture of barbecued chicken]] is [[EpilepticTrees some sort of clue]]. Whatever project that was is still unknown[[note]](depending on who you ask, it was either a ''VideoGame/StarFox'' racing game called ''[[https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2018-05-14-leaks-suggest-nintendos-retro-studios-making-star-fox-racing-spin-off Star Fox: Grand Prix]]'' or [[https://www.resetera.com/threads/nintendo-direct-speculation-ot2-reset-the-thread.110533/page-354#post-26097257 an RPG that focused on singing]])[[/note]], but it was abandoned by January 2019 in favor of the studio becoming [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLIv_UXI_So the new developer]] for ''Metroid Prime 4'', following that game's initial {{troubled production}}.

** ''Metroid Prime Remastered'' (UsefulNotes/NintendoSwitch, 2023)[[index]]

* ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime'' ([[UsefulNotes/NintendoGameCube GameCube]], 2002)

* ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime3Corruption'' (UsefulNotes/{{Wii}}, 2007)
* ''VideoGame/MetroidPrimeTrilogy'' (Wii, 2009; {{compilation rerelease}})

* ''VideoGame/DonkeyKongCountryTropicalFreeze'' (UsefulNotes/WiiU, 2014)[[labelnote:note1]]With assistance from Monster Games[[/labelnote]][[labelnote:note2]]Additionally handled {{updated rerelease}} for Nintendo Switch[[/labelnote]]
[[/index]]

The company was founded by [[VideoGame/{{Turok}} Jeff Spangenberg]] in 1998, after he left Creator/{{Acclaim}} and was given funding by {{Creator/Nintendo}} to create four new games for their upcoming UsefulNotes/NintendoGameCube system, targeting older audiences. Due to [[TroubledProduction incredibly poor management]], which included Spangenberg rarely appearing at the studio, Creator/ShigeruMiyamoto eventually stepped in to assess the damage. While disappointed in most of their work, Miyamoto was impressed by the work done for a third-person action game called ''VideoGame/{{Metaforce}}'' and urged the team to create a new ''Franchise/{{Metroid}}'' title instead, set to be [[ToughActToFollow the first one since the genre-defining]] [[VideoGame/SuperMetroid SNES installment]]. Under Miyamoto's guidance and suggestions, every other project was cancelled, and Retro as a whole began focusing all their efforts on what would become ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime''. ''Metroid Prime'' was released in November 2002, and despite the aforementioned struggles, [[AndYouThoughtItWouldFail it became one of the most beloved titles for the system]], beginning a critically-acclaimed sub-series of {{First Person Shooter}}s. In the months before ''Prime'''s release, Nintendo would hastily acquire Spangenberg's controlling shares due to his terrible leadership and ousted him from the company (probably didn't help that he was hosting a softcore porn site on their servers), turning Retro Studios into a first-party developer for the Japanese gaming giant [[Creator/{{Rare}} just as another Western studio working with Nintendo]] was about to leave for Microsoft. For his part, Spangenberg would go on to make ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNIHAFaWck0 The Guy Game]]''. Make of that what you will.

The company was founded by [[VideoGame/{{Turok}} Jeff Spangenberg]] in 1998, after he left Creator/{{Acclaim}} and was given funding by {{Creator/Nintendo}} to create four new games for their upcoming UsefulNotes/NintendoGameCube system, targeting older audiences. Due to [[TroubledProduction incredibly poor management]], which included Spangenberg rarely appearing at the studio, Creator/ShigeruMiyamoto eventually stepped in to assess the damage. While disappointed in most of their work, Miyamoto was impressed by a first-person shooter engine they'd created for a game called ''VideoGame/{{Metaforce}}'' and pushed the studio to develop a fifth project: a new ''Franchise/{{Metroid}}'' title, set to be [[ToughActToFollow the first one since the genre-defining]] [[VideoGame/SuperMetroid SNES installment]]. Under Miyamoto's guidance and suggestions, Retro began focusing all their efforts on what would become ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime'', with every other project being cancelled in favor of said game over the next few years. ''Metroid Prime'' was released in November 2002, and despite the aforementioned struggles, [[AndYouThoughtItWouldFail it turned out to be one of the most beloved titles for the system]], beginning a critically-acclaimed sub-series of {{First Person Shooter}}s. In the months before ''Prime'''s release, Nintendo would hastily acquire Spangenberg's controlling shares due to his terrible leadership and ousted him from the company (probably didn't help that he was hosting a softcore porn site on their servers), turning Retro Studios into a first-party developer for the Japanese gaming giant [[Creator/{{Rare}} just as another Western studio working with Nintendo]] was about to leave for Microsoft. For his part, Spangenberg would go on to make ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNIHAFaWck0 The Guy Game]]''. Make of that what you will.

For six years afterwards, it was a mystery as to what Retro Studios was working on, and those within the company were staying silent and unwilling to give any hints. Unless the [[https://twitter.com/RetroStudios/status/801548520046075904 occasional picture of barbecued chicken]] is [[EpilepticTrees some sort of clue]]. Whatever project that was is still unknown[[note]](depending on who you ask, it was either a ''VideoGame/StarFox'' racing game called ''[[https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2018-05-14-leaks-suggest-nintendos-retro-studios-making-star-fox-racing-spin-off Star Fox: Grand Prix]]'' or [[https://www.resetera.com/threads/nintendo-direct-speculation-ot2-reset-the-thread.110533/page-354#post-26097257 an RPG that focused on singing]])[[/note]], but it was abandoned in January 2019 in favor of the studio becoming [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLIv_UXI_So the new developer]] for ''Metroid Prime 4'', following that game's initial {{troubled production}}.

The company was founded by [[VideoGame/{{Turok}} Jeff Spangenberg]] in 1998, after he left Creator/{{Acclaim}} and was given funding by {{Creator/Nintendo}} to create four new games for their upcoming UsefulNotes/NintendoGameCube system, targeting older audiences. Due to [[TroubledProduction incredibly poor management]], which included Spangenberg rarely appearing at the studio, Creator/ShigeruMiyamoto eventually stepped in to assess the damage. While disappointed in most of their work, Miyamoto was impressed by a first-person shooter engine they'd created and pushed the studio to develop a fifth project: a new ''Franchise/{{Metroid}}'' title, set to be [[ToughActToFollow the first one since the genre-defining]] [[VideoGame/SuperMetroid SNES installment]]. Under Miyamoto's guidance and suggestions, Retro began focusing all their efforts on what would become ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime'', with every other project being cancelled in favor of said game over the next few years. ''Metroid Prime'' was released in November 2002, and despite the aforementioned struggles, [[AndYouThoughtItWouldFail it turned out to be one of the most beloved titles for the system]], beginning a critically-acclaimed sub-series of {{First Person Shooter}}s. In the months before ''Prime'''s release, Nintendo would hastily acquire Spangenberg's controlling shares due to his terrible leadership and ousted him from the company (probably didn't help that he was hosting a softcore porn site on their servers), turning Retro Studios into a first-party developer for the Japanese gaming giant [[Creator/{{Rare}} just as another Western studio working with Nintendo]] was about to leave for Microsoft. For his part, Spangenberg would go on to make ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNIHAFaWck0 The Guy Game]]''. Make of that what you will.

[[/index]]

[[quoteright:350:https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/retroresized.png]]

The company was founded by [[VideoGame/{{Turok}} Jeff Spangenberg]] in 1998, after he left Creator/{{Acclaim}} and was given funding by {{Creator/Nintendo}} to create four new games for their upcoming UsefulNotes/NintendoGameCube system, targeting older audiences. Due to [[TroubledProduction incredibly poor management]], which included Spangenberg rarely appearing at the studio, Creator/ShigeruMiyamoto eventually stepped in to assess the damage. While disappointed in most of their work, Miyamoto was impressed by a first-person shooter engine they'd created and pushed the studio to develop a fifth project: a new ''Franchise/{{Metroid}}'' title, set to be [[ToughActToFollow the first one since the genre-defining]] [[VideoGame/SuperMetroid SNES installment]]. Under Miyamoto's guidance and suggestions, Retro began focusing all their efforts on what would become ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime'', with every other project being cancelled in favor of said game over the next few years. ''Metroid Prime'' was released in November 2002, and despite the aforementioned struggles, [[AndYouThoughtItWouldFail it turned out to be one of the most beloved titles for the system]], beginning a critically-acclaimed sub-series of {{First Person Shooter}}s. In the months before ''Prime'''s release, Nintendo would hastily acquire Spangenberg's controlling shares due to his terrible leadership and ousted him from the company (probably didn't help that he was hosting a softcore porn site on Nintendo-owned servers), turning Retro Studios into a first-party developer for the Japanese gaming giant [[Creator/{{Rare}} just as another Western studio working with Nintendo]] was about to leave for Microsoft. As for the now-removed Spangenberg? He would take his passion for sexy girls and go on to make ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNIHAFaWck0 The Guy Game]]''. Make of that what you will.

The company was founded by [[VideoGame/{{Turok}} Jeff Spangenberg]] in 1998, after he left Creator/{{Acclaim}} and was given funding by {{Creator/Nintendo}} to create four new games for their upcoming UsefulNotes/NintendoGameCube system, targeting older audiences. Due to [[TroubledProduction incredibly poor management]], which included Spangenberg rarely appearing at the studio, Creator/ShigeruMiyamoto eventually stepped in to assess the damage. While disappointed in most of their work, Miyamoto was impressed by a first-person shooter engine they'd created and pushed the studio to develop a fifth project: a new ''Franchise/{{Metroid}}'' title, set to be [[ToughActToFollow the first one since the genre-defining]] [[VideoGame/SuperMetroid SNES installment]]. Under Miyamoto's guidance and suggestions, Retro began focusing all their efforts on what would become ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime'', with every other project being cancelled in favor of said game over the next few years. ''Metroid Prime'' was released in November 2002, and despite the aforementioned struggles, [[AndYouThoughtItWouldFail it turned out to be one of the most beloved titles for the system]], beginning a critically-acclaimed sub-series of {{First Person Shooter}}s. In the months before ''Prime'''s release, Nintendo would hastily acquire Spangenberg's controlling shares (after discovering that he was running a softcore porn site through their computers), turning Retro Studios into a first-party developer for the Japanese gaming giant [[Creator/{{Rare}} just as another Western studio working with Nintendo]] was about to leave for Microsoft. As for the now removed Spangenberg? He would go on to make ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNIHAFaWck0 The Guy Game]]''. Make of that what you will.

The company was founded by [[VideoGame/{{Turok}} Jeff Spangenberg]] in 1998, after he left Creator/{{Acclaim}} and was given funding by {{Creator/Nintendo}} to create four new games for their upcoming UsefulNotes/NintendoGameCube system, targeting older audiences. Due to [[TroubledProduction incredibly poor management]], which included Spangenberg rarely appearing at the studio, Creator/ShigeruMiyamoto eventually stepped in to assess the damage. While disappointed in most of their work, Miyamoto was impressed by a first-person shooter engine they'd created and pushed the studio to develop a fifth project: a new ''Franchise/{{Metroid}}'' title, set to be [[ToughActToFollow the first one since the genre-defining]] [[VideoGame/SuperMetroid SNES installment]]. Under Miyamoto's guidance and suggestions, Retro began focusing all their efforts on what would become ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime'', with every other project being cancelled in favor of said game over the next few years. ''Metroid Prime'' was released in November 2002, and despite the aforementioned struggles, [[AndYouThoughtItWouldFail it turned out to be one of the most beloved titles for the system]], beginning a critically-acclaimed sub-series of {{First Person Shooter}}s. In the months before ''Prime'''s release, Nintendo would hastily acquire Spangenberg's controlling shares, turning Retro Studios into a first-party developer for the Japanese gaming giant [[Creator/{{Rare}} just as another Western studio working with Nintendo]] was about to leave for Microsoft. As for the now removed Spangenberg? He would go on to make ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNIHAFaWck0 The Guy Game]]''. Make of that what you will.

The company was founded by [[VideoGame/{{Turok}} Jeff Spangenberg]] in 1998, after he left Creator/{{Acclaim}} and was given funding by {{Creator/Nintendo}} to create four new games for their upcoming UsefulNotes/NintendoGameCube system, targeting older audiences. Due to [[TroubledProduction incredibly poor management]], which included Spangenberg rarely appearing at the studio, Creator/ShigeruMiyamoto eventually stepped in to assess the damage. While disappointed in most of their work, Miyamoto was impressed by a first-person shooter engine they'd created and pushed the studio to develop a fifth project: a new ''Franchise/{{Metroid}}'' title, set to be [[ToughActToFollow the first one since the genre-defining]] [[VideoGame/SuperMetroid SNES installment]]. Under Miyamoto's guidance and suggestions, Retro began focusing all their efforts on what would become ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime'', with every other project being cancelled in favor of said game over the next few years.[[note]]These include an untitled action/adventure game, a realistic [[UsefulNotes/NationalFootballLeague NFL]] game, a {{vehicular combat}} game, and an [=RPG=] called ''Raven Blade''.[[/note]] ''Metroid Prime'' was released in November 2002, and despite the aforementioned struggles, [[AndYouThoughtItWouldFail it turned out to be one of the most beloved titles for the system]], beginning a critically-acclaimed sub-series of {{First Person Shooter}}s. In the months before ''Prime'''s release, Nintendo would hastily acquire Spangenberg's controlling shares, turning Retro Studios into a first-party developer for the Japanese gaming giant [[Creator/{{Rare}} just as another Western studio working with Nintendo]] was about to leave for Microsoft. As for the now removed Spangenberg? He would go on to make ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNIHAFaWck0 The Guy Game]]''. Make of that what you will.

Following the completion of the ''VideoGame/MetroidPrimeTrilogy'' and the departure of key talent from the studio[[note]]these individuals would found [[VideoGame/{{Recore}} Armature Studio]] and Creator/BluepointGames, both renowned for their {{polished port}}s[[/note]], Retro Studios once again found themselves experimenting with a number of ideas until they were tasked with revitalizing [[VideoGame/DonkeyKongCountry another dormant franchise]]. Miyamoto desired to make a new entry in the ''Donkey Kong Country'' series, with Retro Studios being chosen as the development team due to CEO Michael Kelbaugh having past experience with the series as a Q&A tester. ''VideoGame/DonkeyKongCountryReturns'' would be revealed during [[UsefulNotes/ElectronicEntertainmentExpo E3]] 2010 and released that holiday season to great reception from fans and critics alike. Retro would remain tied to the franchise for the next several years, being responsible for the ''Franchise/DonkeyKong''-related aspects and "[[AccidentalPun retro]]" tracks of ''VideoGame/MarioKart7'', as well as creating a sequel in the form of ''VideoGame/DonkeyKongCountryTropicalFreeze'', which would later be considered one of the best games in the franchise and for the UsefulNotes/WiiU.

For five years afterwards, it was a mystery as to what Retro Studios was working on, and those within the company were staying silent and unwilling to give any hints. Unless the [[https://twitter.com/RetroStudios/status/801548520046075904 occasional picture of barbecued chicken]] is [[EpilepticTrees some sort of clue]]. Whatever project that was is still unknown[[note]](depending on who you ask, it was either a ''VideoGame/StarFox'' racing game called ''[[https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2018-05-14-leaks-suggest-nintendos-retro-studios-making-star-fox-racing-spin-off Star Fox: Grand Prix]]'' or [[https://www.resetera.com/threads/nintendo-direct-speculation-ot2-reset-the-thread.110533/page-354#post-26097257 an RPG that focused on singing]])[[/note]], but it was abandoned in January 2019 in favor of the studio becoming [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLIv_UXI_So the new developer]] for ''Metroid Prime 4'', following that game's initial {{troubled production}}.

Currently, Retro Studios holds the distinction of being one of the most mysterious game developers under Nintendo's belt, with no one outside the company having any concrete idea about what those Texans are working on, and those within the company staying silent and unwilling to give any hints. Unless the [[https://twitter.com/RetroStudios/status/801548520046075904 occasional picture of barbecued chicken]] is [[EpilepticTrees some sort of clue]]. While the main project they've been working on since ''Tropical Freeze'' is still unknown, following TroubledProduction on ''Metroid Prime 4'', the studio took on [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLIv_UXI_So the role of developer]] for the project in January 2019.

Currently, Retro Studios holds the distinction of being one of the most mysterious game developers under Nintendo's belt, with no one outside the company having any concrete idea about what those Texans are working on, and those within the company staying silent and unwilling to give any hints. Unless the [[https://twitter.com/RetroStudios/status/801548520046075904 occasional picture of barbecued chicken]] is [[EpilepticTrees some sort of clue]]. While the main project they've been working on since ''Tropical Freeze'' is still unknown, following TroubledProduction on ''Metroid Prime 4'', the studio took on the role of developer for the project [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLIv_UXI_So in January 2019]].

Currently, Retro Studios holds the distinction of being one of the most mysterious game developers under Nintendo's belt, with no one outside the company having any concrete idea about what those Texans are working on, and those within the company staying silent and unwilling to give any hints. Unless the [[https://twitter.com/RetroStudios/status/801548520046075904 occasional picture of barbecued chicken]] is [[EpilepticTrees some sort of clue]]. While the current main project they've been working on since ''Tropical Freeze'' is still unknown[[note]]this [[https://twitter.com/Reggie/status/1118634847994408960 retirement picture]] drawn for Reggie Fils-Aime may hold a sneak peek though[[/note]], following TroubledProduction on ''Metroid Prime 4'', the studio took on the role of developer for the project.

Currently, Retro Studios holds the distinction of being one of the most mysterious game developers under Nintendo's belt, with no one outside the company having any concrete idea about what those Texans are working on, and those within the company staying silent and unwilling to give any hints. Unless the [[https://twitter.com/RetroStudios/status/801548520046075904 occasional picture of barbecued chicken]] is [[EpilepticTrees some sort of clue]]. While the current main project they've been working on since ''Tropical Freeze'' is still unknown, following TroubledProduction on ''Metroid Prime 4'', the studio took on the role of developer for the project.

Currently, Retro Studios holds the distinction of being one of the most mysterious game developers under Nintendo's belt, with no one outside the company having any concrete idea about what those Texans are working on, and those within the company staying silent and unwilling to give any hints. Unless the [[https://twitter.com/RetroStudios/status/801548520046075904 occasional picture of barbecued chicken]] is [[EpilepticTrees some sort of clue]]. While the current main project they've been working on since ''Tropical Freeze'' is still unknown, following TroubledProduction on ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime4'', the studio took on the role of developer for the project.

* ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime4'' (UsefulNotes/NintendoSwitch, TBA)

The company was founded by [[VideoGame/{{Turok}} Jeff Spangenberg]] in 1998, after he left Creator/{{Acclaim}} and was given funding by {{Creator/Nintendo}} to create four new games for their upcoming UsefulNotes/NintendoGameCube system, targeting older audiences. Due to [[TroubledProduction incredibly poor management]], which included Spangenberg rarely appearing at the studio, Creator/ShigeruMiyamoto eventually stepped in to assess the damage. While disappointed in most of their work, Miyamoto was impressed by a first-person shooter engine they'd created and pushed the studio to develop a fifth project: a new ''Franchise/{{Metroid}}'' title, set to be [[ToughActToFollow the first one since the genre-defining]] [[VideoGame/SuperMetroid SNES installment]]. Under Miyamoto's guidance and suggestions, Retro began focusing all their efforts on what would become ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime'', with every other project being cancelled in favor of said game over the next few years.[[note]]These include an untitled action/adventure game, a realistic UsefulNotes/{{NFL}} game, a {{vehicular combat}} game, and an [=RPG=] called ''Raven Blade''.[[/note]] ''Metroid Prime'' was released in November 2002, and despite the aforementioned struggles, [[AndYouThoughtItWouldFail it turned out to be one of the most beloved titles for the system]], beginning a critically-acclaimed sub-series of {{First Person Shooter}}s. In the months before ''Prime'''s release, Nintendo would hastily acquire Spangenberg's controlling shares, turning Retro Studios into a first-party developer for the Japanese gaming giant [[Creator/{{Rare}} just as another Western studio working with Nintendo]] was about to leave for Microsoft. As for the now removed Spangenberg? He would go on to make ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNIHAFaWck0 The Guy Game]]''. Make of that what you will.

Currently, Retro Studios holds the distinction of being one of the most mysterious game developers under Nintendo's belt, with no one outside the company having any concrete idea about what those Texans are working on, and those within the company staying silent and unwilling to give any hints. Unless the [[https://twitter.com/RetroStudios/status/801548520046075904 occasional picture of barbecued chicken]] is [[EpilepticTrees some sort of clue]]. While their current main project is unknown, following TroubledProduction on ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime4'', the studio has been brought in as co-developers to lead the game's creation.

Currently, Retro Studios holds the distinction of being one of the most mysterious game developers under Nintendo's belt, with no one outside the company having any concrete idea about what those Texans are working on, and those within the company staying silent and unwilling to give any hints. Unless the [[https://twitter.com/RetroStudios/status/801548520046075904 occasional picture of barbecued chicken]] is [[EpilepticTrees some sort of clue]]. What we do know, however, is the esteem in which higher-ups at Nintendo hold the team that works there, with Miyamoto willing to let them collaborate on series such as ''Franchise/TheLegendOfZelda'' and believing them capable of developing several titles at once. Whatever Retro might be up to, knowing their track record, Nintendo fans will continue waiting in bated breath.

Following the completion of the ''VideoGame/MetroidPrimeTrilogy'' and the departure of key talent from the studio[[note]]this talent formed Armature Studio, now known for ''VideoGame/{{Recore}}'' and a slew of porting work[[/note]], Retro Studios once again found themselves experimenting with a number of ideas until they were tasked with revitalizing [[VideoGame/DonkeyKongCountry another dormant franchise]]. Miyamoto desired to make a new entry in the ''Donkey Kong Country'' series, with Retro Studios being chosen as the development team due to CEO Michael Kelbaugh having past experience with the series as a Q&A tester. ''VideoGame/DonkeyKongCountryReturns'' would be revealed during [[UsefulNotes/ElectronicEntertainmentExpo E3]] 2010 and released that holiday season to great reception from fans and critics alike. Retro would remain tied to the franchise for the next several years, being responsible for the ''Franchise/DonkeyKong''-related aspects and "[[AccidentalPun retro]]" tracks of ''VideoGame/MarioKart7'', as well as creating a sequel in the form of ''VideoGame/DonkeyKongCountryTropicalFreeze'', which would later be considered one of the best games in the franchise and for the UsefulNotes/WiiU.

Currently, Retro Studios holds the distinction of being one of the most mysterious game developers in the industry, with no one outside the company having any concrete idea about what those Texans are working on, and those within the company staying silent and unwilling to give any hints. Unless the [[https://twitter.com/RetroStudios/status/801548520046075904 occasional picture of barbecued chicken]] is [[EpilepticTrees some sort of clue]]. What we do know, however, is the esteem in which higher-ups at Nintendo hold the team that works there, with Miyamoto willing to let them collaborate on series such as ''Franchise/TheLegendOfZelda'' and believing them capable of developing several titles at once. Whatever Retro might be up to, knowing their track record, Nintendo fans will continue waiting in bated breath.

The company was founded by [[VideoGame/{{Turok}} Jeff Spangenberg]] in 1998, after he left Creator/{{Acclaim}} and was given funding by {{Creator/Nintendo}} to create four new games for their upcoming UsefulNotes/NintendoGameCube system, targeting older audiences. Due to [[TroubledProduction incredibly poor management]], which included Spangenberg rarely appearing at the studio, Creator/ShigeruMiyamoto eventually stepped in to assess the damage. While disappointed in most of their work, Miyamoto was impressed by a first-person shooter engine they'd created and pushed the studio to develop a fifth project: a new ''Franchise/{{Metroid}}'' title, set to be [[ToughActToFollow the first one since the genre-defining]] [[VideoGame/SuperMetroid SNES installment]]. Under Miyamoto's guidance and suggestions, Retro began focusing all their efforts on what would become ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime'', with every other project being cancelled in favor of said game over the next few years.[[note]]These include an untitled action/adventure game, a realistic UsefulNotes/{{NFL}} game, a {{vehicular combat}} game, and an [=RPG=] called ''Raven Blade''.[[/note]] ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime'' was released in November 2002. And despite the aforementioned struggles, [[AndYouThoughtItWouldFail it turned out to be one of the most beloved titles for the system]], beginning a critically-acclaimed sub-series of {{First Person Shooter}}s. In the months before ''Prime'''s release, Nintendo would hastily acquire Spangenberg's controlling shares, turning Retro Studios into a first-party developer for the Japanese gaming giant [[Creator/{{Rare}} just as another Western studio working with Nintendo]] was about to leave for Microsoft. As for the now removed Spangenberg? He would go on to make ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNIHAFaWck0 The Guy Game]]''. Make of that what you will.

The company was founded by [[VideoGame/{{Turok}} Jeff Spangenberg]] in 1998, after he left Creator/{{Acclaim}} and was given funding by {{Creator/Nintendo}} to create four new games for their upcoming UsefulNotes/NintendoGameCube system, targeting older audiences. Due to [[TroubledProduction incredibly poor management]], which included Spangenberg rarely appearing at the studio, Creator/ShigeruMiyamoto eventually stepped in to assess the damage. While disappointed in most of their work, Miyamoto was impressed by a first-person shooter engine they'd created and pushed the studio to develop a fifth project: new ''{{VideoGame/Metroid}}'' title, set to be [[ToughActToFollow the first one since the genre-defining]] [[VideoGame/SuperMetroid SNES installment]]. Under Miyamoto's guidance and suggestions, Retro began focusing all their efforts on what would become ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime'', with every other project being cancelled in favor of said game over the next few years.[[note]]These include an untitled action/adventure game, a realistic UsefulNotes/{{NFL}} game, a {{vehicular combat}} game, and an [=RPG=] called ''Raven Blade''.[[/note]] ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime'' was released in November 2002. And despite the aforementioned struggles, [[AndYouThoughtItWouldFail it turned out to be one of the most beloved titles for the system]], beginning a critically-acclaimed sub-series of {{First Person Shooter}}s set in the milieu of Nintendo's ''Franchise/{{Metroid}}'' franchise. In the months before ''Prime'''s release, Nintendo would hastily acquire Spangenberg's controlling shares, turning Retro Studios into a first-party developer for the Japanese gaming giant [[Creator/{{Rare}} just as another Western studio working with Nintendo]] was about to leave for Microsoft. As for the now removed Spangenberg? He would go on to make ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNIHAFaWck0 The Guy Game]]''. Make of that what you will.

The company was founded by [[VideoGame/{{Turok}} Jeff Spangenberg]] in 1998, after he left Creator/{{Acclaim}} and was given funding by {{Creator/Nintendo}} to create four new games for their upcoming UsefulNotes/NintendoGameCube system, targeting older audiences. Due to [[TroubledProduction incredibly poor management]], which included Spangenberg rarely appearing at the studio, Creator/ShigeruMiyamoto eventually stepped in to assess the damage. While disappointed in most of their work, Miyamoto was impressed by a first-person shooter engine they'd created and pushed the studio to develop a fifth project: new ''{{VideoGame/Metroid}}'' title, set to be [[ToughActToFollow the first one since the genre-defining]] UsefulNotes/{{SNES}} installment. Under Miyamoto's guidance and suggestions, Retro began focusing all their efforts on what would become ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime'', with every other project being cancelled in favor of said game over the next few years.[[note]]These include an untitled action/adventure game, a realistic UsefulNotes/{{NFL}} game, a {{vehicular combat}} game, and an [=RPG=] called ''Raven Blade''.[[/note]] ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime'' was released in November 2002. And despite the aforementioned struggles, [[AndYouThoughtItWouldFail it turned out to be one of the most beloved titles for the system]], beginning a critically-acclaimed sub-series of {{First Person Shooter}}s set in the milieu of Nintendo's ''Franchise/{{Metroid}}'' franchise. In the months before ''Prime'''s release, Nintendo would hastily acquire Spangenberg's controlling shares, turning Retro Studios into a first-party developer for the Japanese gaming giant [[Creator/{{Rare}} just as another Western studio working with Nintendo]] was about to leave for Microsoft. As for the now removed Spangenberg? He would go on to make ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNIHAFaWck0 The Guy Game]]''. Make of that what you will.

The company was founded by [[VideoGame/{{Turok}} Jeff Spangenberg]] in 1998, after he left Creator/{{Acclaim}} and was given funding by {{Creator/Nintendo}} to create five new games for their upcoming UsefulNotes/NintendoGameCube system, targeting older audiences. Due to [[TroubledProduction incredibly poor management]], which included Spangenberg rarely appearing at the studio, Creator/ShigeruMiyamoto eventually stepped in and slowly called for the cancellation of each failing project, leading to a swift, unceremonious death for the young studio... at least it would be, if he didn't have faith that the development team could pull off that fifth project, which was to be the first new ''{{VideoGame/Metroid}}'' title since the UsefulNotes/{{SNES}}. With a few suggestions from the veteran game designer, which required the scrapping of all prior work done for the project, the first ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime'' was released in November 2002. And despite the aforementioned struggles, [[AndYouThoughtItWouldFail it turned out to be one of the most beloved titles for the system]], beginning a critically-acclaimed sub-series of {{First Person Shooter}}s set in the milieu of Nintendo's ''Franchise/{{Metroid}}'' franchise. In the months before ''Prime'''s release, Nintendo would hastily acquire Spangenberg's controlling shares, turning Retro Studios into a first-party developer for the Japanese gaming giant [[Creator/{{Rare}} just as another Western studio working with Nintendo]] was about to leave for Microsoft. As for the now removed Spangenberg? He would go on to make ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNIHAFaWck0 The Guy Game]]''. Make of that what you will.

Following the completion of the ''VideoGame/MetroidPrimeTrilogy'' and the departure of key talent from the studio[[note]]said talent forming Armature Studio, now known for ''VideoGame/{{Recore}}'' and a slew of porting work[[/note]], Retro Studios once again found themselves experimenting with a number of ideas until they were tasked with revitalizing [[VideoGame/DonkeyKongCountry another dormant franchise]]. Miyamoto desired to make a new entry in the ''Donkey Kong Country'' series, with Retro Studios being chosen as the development team due to CEO Michael Kelbaugh having past experience with the series as a Q&A tester. ''VideoGame/DonkeyKongCountryReturns'' would be revealed during [[UsefulNotes/ElectronicEntertainmentExpo E3]] 2010 and released that holiday season to great reception from fans and critics alike. Retro would remain tied to the franchise for the next several years, being responsible for the ''Franchise/DonkeyKong''-related aspects and "[[AccidentalPun retro]]" tracks of ''VideoGame/MarioKart7'', as well as creating a sequel in the form of ''VideoGame/DonkeyKongCountryTropicalFreeze'', which would later be considered one of the best games in the franchise and for the UsefulNotes/WiiU.

The company was founded by [[VideoGame/{{Turok}} Jeff Spangenberg]] in 1998, after he left Creator/{{Acclaim}} and was given funding by {{Creator/Nintendo}} to create five new games for their upcoming UsefulNotes/NintendoGameCube system. Due to [[TroubledProduction incredibly poor management]], which included Spangenberg rarely appearing at the studio, Creator/ShigeruMiyamoto eventually stepped in and slowly called for the cancellation of each failing project, leading to a swift, unceremonious death for the young studio... at least it would be, if he didn't have faith that the development team could pull off that fifth project, which was to be the first new ''{{VideoGame/Metroid}}'' title since the UsefulNotes/{{SNES}}. With a few suggestions from the veteran game designer, which required the scrapping of all prior work done for the project, the first ''VideoGame/MetroidPrime'' was released in November 2002. And despite the aforementioned struggles, [[AndYouThoughtItWouldFail it turned out to be one of the most beloved titles for the system]], beginning a critically-acclaimed sub-series of {{First Person Shooter}}s set in the milieu of Nintendo's ''Franchise/{{Metroid}}'' franchise. In the months before ''Prime'''s release, Nintendo would hastily acquire Spangenberg's controlling shares, turning Retro Studios into a first-party developer for the Japanese gaming giant [[Creator/{{Rare}} just as another Western studio working with Nintendo]] was about to leave for Microsoft. As for the now removed Spangenberg? He would go on to make ''[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNIHAFaWck0 The Guy Game]]''. Make of that what you will.