Metroid: Samus Returns

The Metroid series has been one that I have loved playing for many years, but unfortunately in recent years new entries into the series have been few and far between. So to finally be able to play a new Metroid game is such a joy.

Metroid: Samus Returns is a 3DS remake of the 1991 Game Boy title Metroid II: The Return of Samus. I have played the Game Boy title in the past but it was never able to fully grab me due to the limited game play and poor graphics. Those two aspects have been drastically improved in Samus Returns. The game runs seamlessly with Samus running, jumping, shooting and transforming into morph ball form with ease. The addition of 360 degree aiming which is something that older Metroid titles could have benefited from. Other useful additions include the scan pulse which is extremely helpful when you get to a point where you don't know where to go or what to do. The scan pulse will highlight sections of the map that are destructible as well as showing up more of the map for the player. The final new addition is the melee attack which allows you to dispatch enemies with ease and can change the tide during a boss battle. These new game play mechanics make for a refreshed game that very much sets itself apart from the title it was created from.

Samus Returns has very vibrant and detailed graphics. The environments have a life of their own with action often happening in the background that just adds to the whole experience. The graphical prowess of Samus Returns really showcases the vision the creators of The Return of Samus had. At times you feel very lonely and the eerie picture that the game paints has you on the edge of your seat trying to anticipate what kind of enemy you'll face next.

There's little to no hand holding with Samus Returns which really gives it that old school feel. The game is focuses a lot on exploration and finding your own way which at times can be frustrating when you get stuck but you'll always manage to find your way which is half the fun and it's very rewarding once you do start to progress again.

Overall, Samus Returns is a fantastic remake that has included enough innovations to set it apart from that previous game. It is a great game to play if you have never played a Metroid game before due to it's ease of play-ability and veteran players will also get a kick out of it from the improved graphics, game play mechanics and the fact that there hasn't been a good Metroid game in 7 years.

Metroid: Samus Returns is available now on Nintendo 3DS.

4/5

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