Metroid Dread Review

After 19 years since the release of *Metroid Fusion* and the outstanding *Metroid 2* remake in 2017, Nintendo gave MercurySteam another chance to revive the series with *Metroid Dread*. Does it live up to the legacy of being *Metroid 5*? Let’s find out in this review.

Story

The story follows Samus, a bounty hunter tasked with eliminating the alien Metroids that wiped out her people. In *Metroid Dread*, the plot picks up after the events of *Metroid Fusion*. Samus is sent to planet ZDR to destroy the remaining X parasites, as she is immune to their attacks.

During her journey, Samus crashes on ZDR and loses consciousness. Robots known as E.M.M.I. are sent to rescue her, but they’re reprogrammed to hunt her by the leader of an alien group called the Chozo. Samus must fight the E.M.M.I., navigate the planet, and find her way back to her ship.

The story strikes a balance between satisfying long-time fans and introducing new players to the Metroid universe.

Environments and World

*Metroid Dread* is a Metroidvania game, built on the classic exploration formula of the series. Players revisit areas using new abilities and weapons unlocked during gameplay to uncover secrets and progress the story.

At the start, Samus has only two weapons: the Beam Cannon and Rocket Launcher, which help break initial obstacles. As new challenges emerge, players must find alternative paths or unlock upgrades, such as a Beam Cannon capable of firing three laser shots at once. These upgrades transform gameplay by making previously inaccessible areas explorable.

The diverse environments, from abandoned ships to icy labs and volcanic regions, keep exploration fresh. Players must upgrade Samus’s armor to survive hazardous areas, encouraging experimentation and rewarding discovery.

Enemies and Bosses

Regular enemies range from laser-firing statues to flying insects and ground-based robots capable of destroying the floor beneath Samus. These diverse foes create engaging combat scenarios, especially when encountered in groups. Players can counter attacks for a satisfying experience.

The boss battles are a highlight, split into two categories:

Metroids

Traditional bosses challenge players to utilize their skills, reflexes, and environment effectively, reminiscent of *Dark Souls* designs. Each boss offers a unique and intense battle.

E.M.M.I.

E.M.M.I. bosses patrol specific zones, forcing players to evade and survive. These sections shift the game from action to survival horror, similar to *Alien: Isolation*. Players must defeat the controller of these robots to gain a temporary Beam Cannon upgrade to destroy them, unlocking new areas.

Conclusion

*Metroid Dread* is the long-awaited conclusion to Samus’s story, delivering a love letter to fans while offering a fantastic experience for newcomers.

Final Score: 9.5/10