The Nintendo SNES Super Metroid, a game that has captivated gamers for decades with its non-linear gameplay, atmospheric soundtrack, and intense action sequences. Developed by Intelligent Systems and released in Japan as "Metroid II: Super Metroid" in 1991, the game was later released in North America and Europe under the title "Super Metroid" in 1994.

In this article, we'll delve into the world of Super Metroid, exploring its history, gameplay mechanics, and impact on the gaming industry. We'll also examine the various versions of the game available, including the original Japanese and American releases, as well as the popular hack, "Super Metroid - Zebes Returns" by Crocomire.

History of Super Metroid

Metroid II: Super Metroid was developed by Intelligent Systems, a renowned game development company in Japan. The game was released on the SNES in 1991 and was an instant success in Japan, selling over 250,000 copies in its first year alone. The game's success can be attributed to its innovative gameplay mechanics, atmospheric soundtrack, and challenging difficulty level.

Super Metroid was designed to be a sequel to the original Metroid game, released on the NES in 1986. However, due to time constraints, Intelligent Systems decided to develop a new game instead of creating a direct sequel. The result was Metroid II: Super Metroid, which introduced many new features and mechanics that would become standard in future Metroid games.

Gameplay Mechanics

Super Metroid is known for its non-linear gameplay mechanics, which allowed players to explore the vast environment of SR388, a planet infested with hostile creatures. The game's protagonist, Samus Aran, was equipped with a variety of abilities, including her arm cannon, missile launcher, and power suit.

One of the standout features of Super Metroid was its use of power-ups, which granted Samus new abilities and enhanced her existing ones. For example, the Wave Beam power-up allowed Samus to shoot energy waves that could defeat enemies at a distance, while the Screw Attack power-up enabled her to spin around and attack enemies with increased effectiveness.

The game's level design was also noteworthy, featuring a variety of interconnected areas that players had to navigate through using a combination of running, jumping, and shooting abilities. The levels were designed to be challenging, with hidden secrets and Easter eggs waiting to be discovered by intrepid players.

Impact on the Gaming Industry

Super Metroid had a significant impact on the gaming industry, influencing many other action-adventure games that followed in its footsteps. Its non-linear gameplay mechanics and emphasis on exploration set a new standard for the genre, and many games since have attempted to replicate its success.

The game's atmospheric soundtrack, composed by Hirokazu Tanaka, was also widely acclaimed, with many regarding it as one of the greatest video game soundtracks of all time. The music's haunting melodies and pulse-pounding rhythms perfectly complemented the game's tense action sequences and exploration-based gameplay.

Availability and Versions

Super Metroid was released in Japan in 1991, where it sold over 250,000 copies in its first year alone. In North America, the game was released in 1994 under the title "Super Metroid," with some minor changes to the game's content and packaging.

In Europe, the game was initially released as "Metroid II: Super Metroid" but later changed to "Super Metroid" due to licensing issues. The game has since been re-released on various platforms, including the Virtual Console and Nintendo 3DS eShop.

Hack: Super Metroid - Zebes Returns

One of the most popular hacks for Super Metroid is "Super Metroid - Zebes Returns," created by Crocomire in 2008. This hack adds new content to the game, including new levels, enemies, and items, all while maintaining the original game's challenging difficulty level.

The hack features a new storyline that takes players on a journey through the planet Zebes, which was first introduced in Super Metroid as the final stage of the game. Players must navigate through new areas, fight against new enemies, and collect power-ups to unlock new abilities.

Age Rating

Super Metroid is rated T for Teen by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), indicating that it contains some violence, suggestive content, and mild language. In Japan, the game was rated C for children aged 10 and above due to its mild violence and suggestive content.

Overall, Super Metroid remains one of the most beloved games in Nintendo's library, with a dedicated fan base that continues to grow to this day. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, atmospheric soundtrack, and intense action sequences have made it a timeless classic that will be cherished for generations to come.

In conclusion, Super Metroid is a game that has stood the test of time, offering a challenging and rewarding experience for players of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or just starting out, Super Metroid is an absolute must-play that will leave you feeling satisfied and eager for more.

Rating: T for Teen (ESRB), C for children aged 10 and above (Japan)

Platforms: SNES, Virtual Console, Nintendo 3DS eShop

Developer: Intelligent Systems

Publisher: Nintendo

Release Date: 1991 (Japan), 1994 (North America), 1995 (Europe)