So you want to dive into the Metroid series but don't know where to start? You're not alone. Figuring out the Metroid games in order trips up countless gamers. I remember my own confusion when I first discovered the series - staring at Metroid Prime on GameCube wondering if I needed to play the 8-bit original first. Let's clear up that confusion right now.
There are two main ways to approach Metroid games in order: by release date (how they actually came out) or by timeline (the story's chronological sequence). Both have pros and cons depending on whether you care more about gameplay evolution or narrative flow.
Why Getting the Order Right Matters
Look, Metroid isn't like Mario where each game stands alone. The lore actually connects across decades. Play Metroid Dread before Zero Mission? You'll miss huge emotional payoffs. Same goes for playing the 2002 remake before the NES original - you'll appreciate Nintendo's design evolution way more.
Pro Tip: If you're new to the series, I'd suggest starting with either the Game Boy Advance titles (Zero Mission/Fusion) or Metroid Prime Remastered on Switch. They're accessible entry points with modern sensibilities.
Metroid Games in Order of Release
This is how millions experienced the series growing up. You'll see gameplay evolve from 8-bit to VR-like immersion. The benefit? You appreciate each innovation in context. The downside? Early entries feel brutally tough by today's standards.
| Release Year | Game Title | Original Platform | Current Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1986 | Metroid | NES | Switch Online, NES Classic |
| 1991 | Metroid II: Return of Samus | Game Boy | Switch Online (GB app) |
| 1994 | Super Metroid | SNES | Switch Online, SNES Classic |
| 2002 | Metroid Fusion | Game Boy Advance | Switch Online (GBA app) |
| 2002 | Metroid Prime | GameCube | Metroid Prime Remastered (Switch) |
| 2004 | Metroid: Zero Mission | Game Boy Advance | Switch Online (GBA app) |
| 2005 | Metroid Prime 2: Echoes | GameCube | Wii U eShop (original version) |
| 2006 | Metroid Prime Hunters | Nintendo DS | DS Cartridge Only |
| 2007 | Metroid Prime 3: Corruption | Wii | Wii U eShop |
| 2010 | Metroid: Other M | Wii | Wii Disc Only |
| 2016 | Metroid Prime: Federation Force | Nintendo 3DS | 3DS Cartridge |
| 2017 | Metroid: Samus Returns | Nintendo 3DS | 3DS eShop/Cartridge |
| 2021 | Metroid Dread | Nintendo Switch | Switch eShop/Retail |
| 2023 | Metroid Prime Remastered | Nintendo Switch | Switch eShop/Retail |
Release Order Advantages:
- See gameplay innovations develop naturally
- Experience the same surprises original players did
- Appreciate graphical improvements over time
Release Order Drawbacks:
- NES Metroid feels archaic without save features
- Story jumps around timelines confusingly
- Later remakes make originals feel redundant
Breaking Down Key Release Order Titles
Metroid (1986)
The one that started it all. Brutal by today's standards - no map, password system instead of saves. Still, discovering Samus was female blew everyone's mind back then. Worth experiencing for historical context.
My take: I tried replaying this last year and wow, it's rough. Map scribbled on notebook paper mandatory.
Super Metroid (1994)
The SNES masterpiece that defined "Metroidvania" genre. Perfect atmosphere, non-linear exploration, iconic baby Metroid scene. Still holds up beautifully today.
My hot take: Wall-jumping mechanics are frustratingly precise. Took me weeks to master as a kid.
Metroid Prime (2002)
Nintendo's risky first-person reboot that somehow captured Metroid's soul in 3D. Scan lore, eerie isolation, incredible world design. The remastered Switch version is gorgeous.
Personal story: My first Metroid game. Got lost for hours in Chozo Ruins and loved every minute.
Metroid Games in Chronological Story Order
For lore enthusiasts who care about narrative continuity. This sequence follows Samus' career from rookie to legend. Warning: Playing remakes before originals might spoil surprises.
| Timeline Position | Game Title | Notes | Best Version to Play |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Metroid: Zero Mission | Remake of original Metroid | Switch Online GBA |
| 2 | Metroid: Samus Returns | Remake of Metroid II | 3DS |
| 3 | Super Metroid | Direct sequel to Metroid II | Switch Online |
| 4 | Metroid Other M | Story bridges Super to Fusion | Wii (physical) |
| 5 | Metroid Fusion | Establishes SA-X threat | Switch Online GBA |
| 6 | Metroid Dread | Direct Fusion sequel | Switch |
| Prime Series | Metroid Prime Trilogy | Separate timeline branch | Prime Remastered (Switch) |
Important Timeline Note: The Prime games exist in their own bubble between Zero Mission and Samus Returns. Their events don't impact the main 2D series until possibly future games.
Chronological Order Highlights
Metroid: Zero Mission (Timeline Start)
Where every newcomer should begin. Modernizes the original with updated graphics, save points, and an incredible post-game stealth sequence. Sets up Samus' origin story beautifully.
Controversial opinion: The stealth finale feels tonally jarring after hours of run-and-gun action.
Metroid Dread (Current Timeline End)
The terrifying conclusion to the Metroid saga that Fusion started. Introduces terrifying EMMI robots hunting you through metallic corridors. Gameplay is the series' most polished.
Personal gripe: Some EMMI zones frustrated me more than challenged me. Made me put it down for days.
The Prime Dilemma: Where They Fit
Here's where things get messy. The Prime trilogy occurs between Zero Mission and Samus Returns chronologically, but was developed much later. They form their own self-contained storyline about Phazon corruption.
Should you play them during your chronological playthrough? I say yes - they're too good to skip. Treat them as flashback episodes during Samus' early career. Prime 1 especially captures that lonely exploration vibe better than anything since Super Metroid.
Access Tip: Prime Remastered is the easiest entry point. For Prime 2 and 3, hunt down the Wii trilogy compilation or play on Wii U eShop before it closes.
Spinoffs and Non-Canon Games
Not every Metroid game fits neatly into the timeline. Here's what to know:
- Metroid Prime Hunters (DS) - Multiplayer focused, light story
- Metroid Prime Pinball - Exactly what it sounds like
- Metroid Prime: Federation Force - Squad-based spinoff
- Metroid Other M - Canon but controversial (more below)
The Other M Problem
Let's address the space elephant in the room. Other M (2010) attempts to bridge Super Metroid and Fusion but does so... awkwardly. Gameplay mixes 2D and third-person combat, but the writing portrays Samus as emotionally fragile - completely against her established character.
I slogged through it once. My advice? Watch the cutscenes on YouTube instead of playing. The gameplay isn't terrible, but the story leaves a bad taste.
Remakes vs Originals: Which to Play?
This debate causes endless internet arguments. My practical take:
| Original Game | Remake | Which to Choose |
|---|---|---|
| Metroid (NES) | Metroid: Zero Mission (GBA) | Zero Mission - Vastly superior experience |
| Metroid II (GB) | Samus Returns (3DS) | Samus Returns - Unless you're a purist |
| Metroid Prime (GC) | Metroid Prime Remastered (Switch) | Remastered - Same game but prettier |
| Super Metroid (SNES) | None yet | Original - Still perfect as-is |
Where to Play All Metroid Games Today
Finding physical copies can bankrupt you. Here's the affordable access guide:
- Switch Online - NES, SNES and GBA apps contain: Metroid (NES), Super Metroid, Metroid Fusion, Zero Mission
- Switch eShop - Metroid Dread, Prime Remastered
- Wii U eShop (closing soon) - Metroid Prime Trilogy, Other M
- 3DS - Samus Returns digital/cartridge
- Evercade - Compilation carts with original Game Boy titles
Preservation Alert: Several titles like Prime 2/3 and Samus Returns risk becoming inaccessible if you don't own them before eShop closures. Grab them while you can.
Metroid Games Order FAQ
What's the best starting point for Metroid beginners?
Metroid: Zero Mission (GBA via Switch Online) or Metroid Prime Remastered (Switch). Both offer modern accessibility while capturing the series' essence. Super Metroid is brilliant but lacks quality-of-life features new players expect.
Should I play Metroid games by release or timeline order?
Depends on your priorities. For gameplay evolution: release order. For story cohesion: timeline. My hybrid recommendation: Start with Zero Mission, then Prime Remastered, then Super Metroid, Fusion and Dread.
Are all Metroid games connected story-wise?
Most are, except spinoffs. The main sequence is: Zero Mission → Prime series → Samus Returns → Super Metroid → Other M → Fusion → Dread. Prime games don't affect the main arc but enrich Samus' character.
How long to beat the entire Metroid series?
Approximate playtimes:
- Zero Mission: 4-6 hours
- Prime Trilogy: 45-60 hours
- Super Metroid: 8-10 hours
- Fusion: 6-8 hours
- Dread: 10-12 hours
Why is Super Metroid considered a masterpiece?
Three magic ingredients: Perfect pacing of upgrades, unparalleled atmosphere (that rainy opening!), and revolutionary sequence breaking. Players still find new paths 30 years later. Play it to understand game design history.
Final Thoughts on Metroid Play Order
Don't stress about perfect sequence. What matters is experiencing Samus' journey. Start where feels comfortable - whether that's the slick 2023 Switch remaster or pixel-perfect 1994 classic.
My personal Metroid games in order recommendation for newcomers?
- Metroid: Zero Mission
- Metroid Prime Remastered
- Super Metroid
- Metroid Fusion
- Metroid Dread
The hunt for the perfect Metroid games order ends here. Now grab your Power Suit and explore some alien ruins - just watch out for those Metroids!
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