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Find out the ranked list of every 2D Metroid game in this comprehensive guide!
Introduction to the Metroid Franchise
I have a hunch that many folks out there consider Metroidvania their go-to gaming genre, yet they may not have ever dived into a Metroid game. That’s a bummer! It can be tough to revisit a classic when other games have taken its best ideas and polished them into something shinier.
However, the Metroid series stands out. Almost every 2D Metroid title remains a blast to play, even amidst the sea of fantastic indie Metroidvanias surfacing lately. But, let’s be real—”almost” is the key word. There are some 2D Metroid games that fall flat, just like there are some that truly shine. So, allow me to guide you through the entire list of 2D Metroid games, from the ones that stumble to those that excel.
Metroid II: Return of Samus (1991)
The original Game Boy was a revolutionary device—the first handheld console that truly demonstrated what gamers wanted while on the move. With a plethora of fantastic Nintendo titles and intriguing third-party games, it had a lot to offer. But was it the right fit for Metroid II? Not really.
Metroid II: Return of Samus struggles on the Game Boy. Exploring an alien planet without any clear direction feels like searching for a needle in a haystack, especially when the graphics are monochrome. The controls and enemy designs leave something to be desired, making Samus feel more like an unwitting tourist stumbling upon aliens than a formidable bounty hunter. While it has decent ideas, they didn’t fully translate on the Game Boy.
Good news though! You can give it a go on the Nintendo Switch, as it’s been ported there in 2023. It’s a fun experience, but like other entries on this list, it hasn’t aged well.
Metroid (1986)
The first Metroid game is iconic, but even its most devoted fans can agree that it’s not exactly a joyride. While it laid a solid foundation for the series, many of its flaws are front and center here.
One of the most significant issues? No map. Sure, some purists will argue, “It’s not meant to have a map!” and “You should create your own map!” But let’s face it, trying to navigate without one makes exploration feel meaningless. The control scheme isn’t the best either, and traversing the game can be tedious. I might just be spoiled by modern design, but going back to the original isn’t all that enjoyable.
Metroid has been released on various platforms over the years, including:
- Famicom Disk System (1986)
- Nintendo Entertainment System (1987)
- Game Boy Advance (2004)
- Wii – Virtual Console (2007)
- 3DS – Virtual Console (2012)
- NES Classic Edition (2016)
- Nintendo Switch (2018)
But, at its core, it remains the same old game.
Metroid Zero Mission (2004)
Finally, we have a remake of the original Metroid, and guess what? We’ve got a map now! Plus, there are map markers. Zero Mission is a bit of an over-correction. It’s more accessible than the original, thanks to its map and gameplay tweaks, but it can feel a little too guided at times.
Every time you gain access to a new area, the game joyfully blinks at you with a flashy indicator on your map. While this doesn’t ruin the game, it does dampen the thrill of exploration. If the original Metroid was too vague, Zero Mission might be a tad too specific. Still, it’s a fun ride that could benefit from a bit less hand-holding.
Metroid Fusion (2002)
I genuinely enjoy Metroid Fusion, but let’s be honest—it’s not a traditional Metroid game. It’s an excellent 2D platform shooter and a smart twist on Alien, but it lacks that classic Metroid feel.
In essence, Fusion is almost devoid of exploration. The heart of Metroid is about navigating uncharted territory and discovering what lies ahead. Unfortunately, in Fusion, a robot named Adam constantly dictates where you should go, which can be quite annoying.
Despite its shortcomings, Fusion is an excellent title and one of my favorite Game Boy Advance games. But typically, when I replay the series, I tend to skip Fusion, viewing it as a standalone experience rather than part of Samus’ ongoing saga.
Super Metroid (1994)
Super Metroid represents a massive leap forward. Three years after the struggles of Metroid II on outdated hardware, this classic harnessed the power of the Super Nintendo, and it’s hard to deny how monumental this game still feels nearly three decades later.
Bringing Samus back to Zebes (the setting of the original game) introduces a thrilling adventure. This time, Zebes is crawling with space pirates eager to harness the power of the Metroids. The exploration in Super Metroid is exhilarating, and the arsenal available to Samus adds an extra layer of excitement. Figuring out how to piece everything together is the essence of Super Metroid. It’s all about exploration, and this title nails that sentiment beautifully.
You can relive this masterpiece on the Nintendo Switch, as it was re-released back in 2019.
Metroid Prime Pinball (2005)
Alright, I know Metroid Prime Pinball isn’t your traditional Metroidvania game, but it deserves a spot on this list! Technically, it’s 2D, so it meets the criteria.
This game follows the classic pinball format but is infused with Metroid themes and elements. While it doesn’t significantly differ from other pinball games, it was well-received by both players and critics. If you’re itching for a Metroid experience with a twist, this is your ticket. Otherwise, you might want to stick with the more traditional titles on this list.
Metroid: Samus Returns (2017)
After a lengthy absence, Samus made a grand comeback in 2017 with Metroid: Samus Returns, a 3DS remake of Metroid II, developed by Mercury Steam. In many respects, Samus Returns feels like a modernized version of Metroid II, and thankfully, it’s a blast to play!
This title is the first 2D Metroid game where Samus genuinely feels like the fierce bounty hunter she is. Throughout most of the game, she tracks down Metroids by analyzing their DNA, adding a layer of depth that was lacking in the original. Unlike Metroid II, you can see where the Metroids are lurking, allowing you to strategize your approach. The combat mechanics are stellar, making Samus feel powerful. While it may not have as much exploration as some other titles, it compensates for that with smooth and enjoyable gameplay.
Metroid Dread (2021)
Let’s talk about Metroid Dread. Despite the potential for recency bias, it genuinely lives up to the hype. As the first mainline Metroid game in almost twenty years, and the first home-console 2D Metroid since 1994, it’s a real gem.
Mercury Steam has once again outdone themselves, providing Samus with an amazing arsenal of weapons that make gameplay feel absolutely exhilarating. The exploration aspect is spot-on, striking a balance between guidance and discovery. You won’t find yourself lost, but you’ll always feel like you’re uncovering something new.
Metroid Dread is like a warm hug for fans—it’s an amazing action game for action enthusiasts, a delightful exploration game for those who love discovery, and a fantastic Metroid game for dedicated fans.
Conclusion
In summary, the Metroid series has brought us some unforgettable gaming experiences over the years. From the rough edges of the early titles to the refined gameplay of more recent entries, each game offers its flavor of adventure, exploration, and, of course, the iconic bounty hunter, Samus Aran. Whether you’re new to the series or a long-time fan, there’s something to appreciate in each game.
- What is the first 2D Metroid game? The first 2D Metroid game is simply titled Metroid, released in 1986.
- How many 2D Metroid games are there? There are several 2D Metroid games, including notable titles like Super Metroid, Zero Mission, and Metroid Dread.
- Is Metroid Dread worth playing? Absolutely! Metroid Dread is a modern classic that balances exploration and action brilliantly.
- Can I play Metroid II on modern consoles? Yes! Metroid II: Return of Samus has been ported to the Nintendo Switch in 2023.
- What makes Super Metroid special? Super Metroid is renowned for its expansive world, innovative gameplay, and captivating exploration mechanics, making it a standout title in the series.
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