Metroid Prime: Federation Force will not feature Samus as a playable character, says director Kensuke Tanabe.

Responding to intense fan criticism about the 3DS spinoff, Tanabe said the focus on co-op is "an attempt to expand the Metroid universe," and that it "wouldn't make sense" for players to control four Samus clones.

He added, "You may be able to see Samus in the game," hinting at a possible cameo appearance from the traditional Metroid lead character.

Nintendo of America boss Reggie Fils-Amie conceded, "The reaction has been negative. There's no sugar coating it," but said the reactions were due to players not getting to try the game for themselves.

Federation Force is a four-person co-op shooter, unlike the single-player exploratory action of other Metroid titles.

The game is set to launch for the 3DS in 2016.