Launching on August 6, 1986 for the Famicom Disk System in Japan, the Metroid franchise became a defining title for the early years of Nintendo home console gaming. Combining platforming adventure with Zelda-esque exploration, along with some punishing, side-scroller action, Metroid was a unique experience, becoming arguably the defining title in a now extremely popular genre simply called “Metroidvania” after both this franchise and certain Castlevania games.

While never as consistent a presence on Nintendo’s hardware as other beloved franchises like Super Mario and The Legend of Zelda, Metroid nevertheless has a devoted fanbase, and their games definitely are consistent with near universal acclaim. It’s for this reason, then, that I must beg the question: what is the very best Metroid game? Although there may be some more popular than others, an argument can be made for most every title in the series; they are just that good. Read on for a quick case for a few notable entries, then let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

Super Metroid

The original Metroid game was undoubtedly revolutionary, but it didn’t take long for the title’s age to show: minimalistic graphics, 8-bit sound, no save features (outside of Japan), and a story largely limited to the instruction manual.

Enter Super Metroid on the SNES and Super Famicom. The third entry in the franchise, Super Metroid took at look at the first two games, and sought to deliver a masterclass in just how they should be done. Even thirty years after release, the game’s art and sound design are heralded as among the best in the 16-bit era, not the mention the action and exploration gameplay are superb. For many gamers, Super Metroid is not only one of the best games on the SNES/Super Famicom, but among the greatest of all time.

Metroid: Zero Mission

Speaking of the original game needing upgrades, Metroid: Zero Mission did exactly that: it took the classic experience and enhanced the graphics and sound; added new areas, enemies, and weapons; included a more detailed story; and provided save points. For many, Metroid: Zero Mission stands above the rest because of the amount of care went into bringing the NES title to the (then) modern day. That first title is mostly seen as a masterclass in action/adventure gaming, and Zero Mission makes that case and then some.

Metroid Prime

Metroid Prime took the side-scroller action and exploration of the original games, and revolutionized it with a first-person perspective and gorgeous, 3D environments. Many were skeptical when this GameCube title was first announced, but as soon as you get behind Samus’s blaster for the first time, you know you’re in for a winning experience. For most, the eerie atmosphere from the previous games it multiplied more with the immersive first-person camera, creating not only a rewarding action title, but a high caliber story to boot. Like Super Metroid, Metroid Prime is regularly listed as not just one of the best of its generation, but in gaming as a whole.

Metroid Dread

The latest Metroid title (at least until Metroid Prime 4 finally arrives), Metroid Dread returns to a side-scrolling format, while using modern day technology to deliver the spine-tingling atmosphere or the Prime titles. Dread also includes a free-aiming feature and a melee counter system (both first introduced in the 2017 remake title Samus Returns). The star of the game however in undoubtedly the stealth elements, as Samus is relentlessly pursued by murderous EMMI robots that employ camouflage and other powerful weaponry to track her on the remote planet of ZDR. While some felt that the EMMI robot enemies made the game too difficult, the villains unquestionably add a layer of tension to the franchise that has never been seen before. When you take all that into consideration, and that Metroid Dread is the best looking game in the series to date, you have a title that is definitely in the running for the best Metroid game.

What Say You?

Which game is the very best Metroid title? Is it one of the games that we listed? Or do you think it’s one of the other fantastic entries in this historic sci-fi franchise? Take our poll down below, and let us know in the comments below to voice your opinion on Nintendo’s famed Metroid series!

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