36 Facts About Metroid (Video Game)

The Origins of Metroid

Metroid, a beloved video game series, has captivated players for decades. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this iconic franchise.

1. Metroid debuted in 1986: The first game was released for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in Japan on August 6, 1986.

2. Inspired by Alien: The game's atmosphere and design were heavily influenced by the 1979 sci-fi horror film "Alien."

3. Samus Aran's debut: Players were introduced to Samus Aran, one of the first female protagonists in video game history.

4. Surprise ending: Many players were shocked to discover Samus was a woman, revealed only if the game was completed quickly.

Gameplay and Mechanics

Metroid's gameplay and mechanics set it apart from other games of its time. Here are some key aspects.

5. Non-linear exploration: Unlike many games of its era, Metroid allowed players to explore its world in a non-linear fashion.

6. Power-ups and upgrades: Players collected various power-ups, such as the Morph Ball and Missiles, to progress through the game.

7. Backtracking: The game encouraged backtracking to previously inaccessible areas once new abilities were acquired.

8. Password system: Metroid used a password system to save progress, a common feature before the advent of save files.

Iconic Enemies and Bosses

The Metroid series is known for its memorable enemies and challenging bosses. Let's look at some of the most iconic ones.

9. Metroids: The titular creatures are parasitic organisms that drain life energy from their prey.

10. Ridley: Named after director Ridley Scott, this recurring dragon-like boss is one of Samus's main adversaries.

11. Kraid: A giant, multi-eyed creature that serves as one of the game's major bosses.

12. Mother Brain: The final boss of the original game, a bio-mechanical entity controlling the Space Pirates.

Evolution of the Series

Over the years, Metroid has evolved, introducing new gameplay elements and expanding its lore.

13. Metroid II: Return of Samus: Released for the Game Boy in 1991, this sequel introduced new abilities like the Spider Ball.

14. Super Metroid: Launched in 1994 for the Super Nintendo, it is often hailed as one of the greatest games of all time.

15. Metroid Fusion: Released for the Game Boy Advance in 2002, it introduced a more narrative-driven approach.

16. Metroid Prime: This 2002 GameCube title transitioned the series to a first-person perspective, revolutionizing its gameplay.

Cultural Impact

Metroid has left a lasting impact on gaming culture and beyond. Here are some ways it has influenced the world.

17. Metroidvania genre: The series, along with Castlevania, helped define the "Metroidvania" genre, characterized by exploration and power-up-based progression.

18. Speedrunning: Metroid's design has made it a popular choice for speedrunners, who complete the game as quickly as possible.

19. Samus in Super Smash Bros.: Samus Aran has been a staple character in the Super Smash Bros. series since its inception.

20. Fan-made projects: The series has inspired numerous fan-made games and projects, showcasing its enduring popularity.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Here are some lesser-known tidbits about the Metroid series that even die-hard fans might not know.

21. Samus's name origin: Samus Aran's name is derived from the soccer player Pelé, whose real name is Edson Arantes do Nascimento.

22. Justin Bailey code: A famous password in the original game, "JUSTIN BAILEY," allows players to play as Samus without her Power Suit.

23. Unused content: Early versions of Metroid Prime included a multiplayer mode that was ultimately scrapped.

24. Metroid Dread rumors: Rumors of a game titled "Metroid Dread" circulated for years before it was officially announced in 2021.

Metroid's Legacy

The legacy of Metroid continues to grow, influencing new generations of gamers and developers alike.

25. Influence on indie games: Many indie games, such as Hollow Knight and Axiom Verge, draw inspiration from Metroid's gameplay and design.

26. Critical acclaim: The series consistently receives high praise from critics and players for its innovative gameplay and atmospheric storytelling.

27. Merchandise: Metroid has spawned a variety of merchandise, including action figures, comics, and clothing.

28. Metroid: Other M: This 2010 game for the Wii offered a more cinematic experience, blending third-person and first-person perspectives.

Recent Developments

The Metroid series continues to evolve with new releases and exciting announcements.

29. Metroid: Samus Returns: A 2017 remake of Metroid II for the Nintendo 3DS, featuring updated graphics and gameplay.

30. Metroid Prime 4: Announced in 2017, this highly anticipated game is currently in development for the Nintendo Switch.

31. Metroid Dread: Released in 2021 for the Nintendo Switch, it marks the return of the 2D Metroid gameplay style.

32. Amiibo support: Recent Metroid games have included support for Nintendo's Amiibo figures, unlocking in-game content.

Behind the Scenes

Let's take a peek behind the curtain at some interesting behind-the-scenes facts about the Metroid series.

33. Gunpei Yokoi: The original Metroid was produced by Gunpei Yokoi, the creator of the Game Boy.

34. Yoshio Sakamoto: A key figure in the series, Sakamoto has directed and produced many Metroid games.

35. Retro Studios: This Texas-based developer was responsible for the Metroid Prime trilogy.

36. Shigeru Miyamoto: The legendary game designer provided guidance and support during the development of the original Metroid.

Final Thoughts on Metroid

Metroid has left an indelible mark on gaming history. From its groundbreaking gameplay to its unforgettable protagonist, Samus Aran, this series has captivated players for decades. The blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat set a new standard for video games.

Fans have enjoyed countless hours navigating the labyrinthine worlds, uncovering secrets, and battling formidable foes. The series' influence is evident in many modern games, proving its lasting legacy.

Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, Metroid offers a rich, immersive experience that's hard to match. Its combination of atmosphere, story, and gameplay ensures it remains a beloved classic.

So, next time you pick up a controller, remember the impact Metroid has had on the gaming world. Dive into its universe and experience the magic that has enchanted gamers for generations.