Super Metroid
Super Metroid is a landmark action-adventure game developed and published by Nintendo for the SNES. Released in 1994, it perfected the 'Metroidvania' formula with its non-linear exploration, ability-gated progression, and atmospheric storytelling. Players control bounty hunter Samus Aran as she investigates the Space Pirate base on planet Zebes to recover a stolen Metroid larva.
Platform
snes
Year
1994
Genre
Action-Adventure / Metroidvania
Developer
Nintendo R&D1
Controls
About This Game
The game refined the formula established by its predecessors with enhanced controls including the ability to aim diagonally and new power-ups like the Grapple Beam and Power Bomb. Its moody, isolated atmosphere was achieved through detailed sprite work, dynamic lighting effects, and one of the most acclaimed video game soundtracks of all time.
Super Metroid introduced innovative mechanics that became genre staples: the inventory screen with auto-map, wall jumping, and sequence breaking. The game's environmental storytelling and minimal cutscenes were revolutionary for 1994.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest games ever made, it influenced countless titles and spawned an active speedrunning community. Despite modest initial sales, it became a million-seller through player's choice re-releases and is frequently cited in 'best games of all time' lists.
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