36 Facts About Metroid (Video Game)

Metroid: A Classic in Gaming History

Metroid, a beloved video game franchise, has captivated players since its debut in 1986. Known for its atmospheric exploration and unique gameplay, it has left a lasting impact on the gaming world. Here are some fascinating facts about Metroid.

1. Metroid debuted on the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in 1986. This game introduced players to Samus Aran and the planet Zebes.

2. Samus Aran, the protagonist, was one of the first female characters in video games. Her gender was revealed only at the end of the game, surprising many players.

3. The game was inspired by the Alien movie franchise. The eerie atmosphere and sci-fi elements drew heavily from Ridley Scott's iconic film.

4. Metroid was one of the first games to feature a non-linear world. Players could explore the planet Zebes in any order, a groundbreaking concept at the time.

Development and Design

The development and design of Metroid were innovative for its time, pushing the boundaries of what video games could achieve.

5. Gunpei Yokoi, the creator of the Game Boy, produced Metroid. His vision and creativity were instrumental in shaping the game.

6. The game's music was composed by Hirokazu "Hip" Tanaka. His atmospheric soundtrack added to the game's immersive experience.

7. Metroid's development team was small, consisting of only eight people. Despite the limited resources, they created a timeless classic.

8. The game's map was designed to encourage exploration. Players had to find power-ups and abilities to progress, a concept now known as "Metroidvania."

Iconic Characters and Enemies

Metroid introduced players to a host of memorable characters and enemies, each contributing to the game's rich lore.

9. Ridley, one of the main antagonists, was named after Ridley Scott. This dragon-like creature became a recurring villain in the series.

10. Mother Brain, the final boss, was inspired by the HAL 9000 from 2001: A Space Odyssey. This menacing AI controlled the Space Pirates.

11. The Metroids, parasitic creatures, are central to the game's plot. These life-draining organisms are both feared and sought after.

12. Kraid, another boss, was so large that he couldn't fit on one screen. Players had to navigate multiple screens to defeat him.

Sequels and Spin-offs

The success of Metroid led to numerous sequels and spin-offs, each expanding the universe and introducing new gameplay mechanics.

13. Metroid II: Return of Samus was released for the Game Boy in 1991. This sequel continued Samus's battle against the Metroids.

14. Super Metroid, released in 1994, is often considered one of the greatest games of all time. Its expansive world and tight controls set a new standard for the series.

15. Metroid Fusion, released for the Game Boy Advance in 2002, introduced a more linear storyline. This game also featured the SA-X, a terrifying doppelgänger of Samus.

16. Metroid Prime, released for the GameCube in 2002, transitioned the series to 3D. This first-person adventure was praised for its immersive world and innovative gameplay.

Cultural Impact

Metroid has had a significant cultural impact, influencing countless games and media over the years.

17. The term "Metroidvania" was coined to describe games with similar exploration-based gameplay. This genre includes titles like Castlevania: Symphony of the Night.

18. Samus Aran has appeared in various other Nintendo games. She is a playable character in the Super Smash Bros. series.

19. Metroid's atmospheric storytelling has inspired many indie games. Titles like Hollow Knight and Axiom Verge pay homage to the series.

20. The game's speedrunning community is one of the most dedicated. Players compete to complete Metroid games in record time, often using glitches and tricks.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Here are some lesser-known facts and trivia about Metroid that even die-hard fans might not know.

21. Samus's iconic suit was inspired by the Power Loader from Aliens. This exoskeleton gave her enhanced abilities and protection.

22. The original Metroid had a password system instead of save files. Players had to write down long codes to continue their progress.

23. A secret code in the original game allowed players to start with all power-ups. This "JUSTIN BAILEY" code became famous among fans.

24. Metroid: Zero Mission, released in 2004, is a remake of the original game. It features updated graphics and additional content.

25. Metroid Prime 4 is currently in development for the Nintendo Switch. Fans eagerly await the next installment in the series.

Behind the Scenes

The making of Metroid involved many interesting behind-the-scenes stories and decisions.

26. The game's title, Metroid, is a combination of "metro" and "android." This reflects the game's futuristic setting and robotic elements.

27. Samus's gender was kept a secret during development. The reveal was intended to challenge stereotypes in gaming.

28. The game's ending changes based on how quickly players complete it. Faster times reward players with different images of Samus.

29. Metroid's development team included several women. This was unusual for the time and contributed to the game's unique perspective.

Legacy and Influence

Metroid's legacy continues to influence the gaming industry, with its innovative design and memorable characters leaving a lasting mark.

30. The series has sold over 17 million copies worldwide. Its popularity shows no signs of waning.

31. Metroid has been adapted into various media, including comics and manga. These adaptations expand on the game's lore and characters.

32. The game's influence can be seen in modern titles like Dark Souls and Bloodborne. These games share Metroid's emphasis on exploration and atmosphere.

33. Metroid's design philosophy has inspired many game developers. Its non-linear gameplay and hidden secrets are now common in many genres.

34. The series has won numerous awards and accolades. Super Metroid, in particular, is often cited as one of the best games ever made.

35. Metroid's music has been performed in concert by orchestras. These performances highlight the game's iconic soundtrack.

36. The series continues to evolve with each new installment. Fans eagerly anticipate what the future holds for Samus Aran and the Metroid universe.

Final Thoughts on Metroid

Metroid's legacy in gaming is undeniable. From its groundbreaking gameplay to its atmospheric storytelling, it has captivated players for decades. Samus Aran, the iconic protagonist, broke barriers as one of the first female leads in video games. The series' blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat set a standard for future games. Each installment brought new innovations, keeping the franchise fresh and exciting. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, Metroid offers a rich, immersive experience. Its influence can be seen in countless other games, proving its lasting impact on the industry. So, next time you pick up a controller, remember the trailblazing journey of Metroid. Dive into its world, and you might just find yourself hooked.