It's going to be different anyway if Retro isn't making it. Safe to keep expectations low. If controls aren't MP3-based, it may be weird too unless they return to gamecube-style control.

Is this all the Donation prizes?

If they do it dark 'n gritty style like Castlevania but keep it PG, Big N may give it their blessing. Because we know you can't make unapproved/unlicensed derivative works that resemble commercial products of their intellectual property. >.>
Using components from the old Nintendo comic may work too. It managed to have some story elements and not be too buddy-movie or Papa-Adam Other M-style.

Metroid is a more 'mature' Nintendo property as opposed to the more kid-friendly ones (Mario, Zelda kinda, Spaltoon, Pikmin)

Would rather have a StarFox series however. Seems more written for that medium. Sort of like that not-a-starfox-cartoon on them youtubes not being made.

Much as I applaud the posting, playing a risky potential DMCA game, there.