In 2009, Nintendo released a highly popular game for the Wii called Metroid Prime Trilogy, which bundled together three fan-favorite first-person shooting entries from the popular series into one convenient package. Unfortunately, it was produced in limited numbers, and, as a result, became a hugely sought collectible item for years to come – especially in “complete” condition with Steelbook case, slip cover and art book.

However, fans of the game now have an easier – and less costly – option to take, as Nintendo re-released Metroid Prime Trilogy as a digital download on its Wii U service for $9.99. The sale price is good through next Thursday, after which it will go back up to its regular price of $19.99.

Normally, a game release just usually slips by without much news, but, to many fans, Metroid is a big deal. The franchise has been a favorite amongst fans since its debut on the NES in the late 80’s, introducing a rare female protagonist named Samus Aran that both male and female gamers immediately got hooked on. Since then, Samus has returned in a number of sequels, including the Prime trilogy, which has been both a critical hit and a best seller.

However, the Metroid series has laid dormant for the past few years, with the developer, Retro Studios, hard at work on other projects, like Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze for the Wii U. However, with Trilogy‘s return as a digital download, Nintendo may just be gauging to see if the series is still relevant – which, in turn, could mean a new game in the franchise.

Nintendo is no strange to revisiting popular franchises from the past, as fresh entries in the Mario Kart and Smash Bros. series have become huge sellers over the past year. The company is also returning fan favorites The Legend of Zelda and StarFox later this year to the Wii U, both of which should bring big sales.

So Metroid coming back would make sense, if only because it still has an avid fanbase that continues to appreciate everything does. Even lesser titles in the series, like Other M for the Wii, perform better than expected.

But there’s also another factor to consider – the “hardcore” gaming crowd that have been wanting a quality first-person shooter for the Wii U and 3DS systems. Call of Duty entries aside, there haven’t been too many games for either system, and a new Metroid game – complete with a multiplayer component like the one featured in Metroid Prime 2: Echoes – would no doubt resonate with this audience.

Nothing is official, by any means, but Nintendo may be paying close attention to sales numbers and perhaps even making a decision by the time the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) rolls around this June. For now, though, fans can appreciate Trilogy for all it’s worth – and at an affordable price level, at that.