Complete Guide to Playing Metroid Games

The Metroid franchise spans decades of gaming history, with titles released across multiple Nintendo platforms. Players frequently encounter confusion about the optimal order to experience these games, particularly when navigating the distinction between chronological story progression and the sequence in which games were originally launched. Understanding both approaches enables players to choose an experience aligned with their preferences and gaming objectives.

Understanding Your Two Primary Pathways

The Metroid series presents an interesting challenge for newcomers and returning fans alike. The franchise doesn’t follow a simple linear narrative progression—instead, games were developed and released across different eras of gaming hardware, and their story placement doesn’t always correspond with release dates. This creates two distinct approaches to experiencing the series: playing games in the order they were originally published, or following the canonical timeline that developers established through narrative connections.

Each approach offers distinct advantages. The release order provides a historical perspective on how the franchise evolved technically and creatively, allowing players to understand the series’ development arc. Conversely, the chronological timeline enables a coherent narrative experience, with events unfolding according to Samus Aran’s in-universe journey rather than development scheduling.

The Historical Release Sequence

Following the original publication order provides valuable context for understanding how the franchise developed. This pathway reflects the actual gaming experiences that audiences enjoyed across different decades, showcasing technological improvements and evolving game design principles.

First Era: Foundation and Expansion (1986-1994)

• Metroid (1986, NES) — The original game that established the franchise and defined the exploration-based action gameplay.
• Metroid II: Return of Samus (1991, Game Boy) — The first sequel, bringing the adventure to Nintendo’s handheld platform.
• Super Metroid (1994, SNES) — A landmark title that refined the formula and established many conventions still used today.

Second Era: The Prime Expansion (2002-2009)

• Metroid Prime (2002, GameCube) — A revolutionary first-person reimagining of the franchise.
• Metroid Fusion (2002, Game Boy Advance) — Released simultaneously with Prime, offering a contrasting 2D experience.
• Metroid: Zero Mission (2004, Game Boy Advance) — A remake of the original game with enhanced graphics and new content.
• Metroid Prime 2: Echoes (2004, GameCube) — The first sequel to the Prime spinoff series.
• Metroid Prime Pinball (2005, Nintendo DS) — A pinball-themed spin-off variation.
• Metroid Prime Hunters (2006, Nintendo DS) — A handheld Prime experience.
• Metroid Prime 3: Corruption (2007, Wii) — The conclusion of the original Prime trilogy.
• Metroid Prime: Trilogy (2009, Wii) — A compilation featuring remastered versions of the first three Prime games.

Third Era: Modern Developments (2010-Present)

• Metroid: Other M (2010, Wii) — A controversial third-person action entry.
• Metroid Prime: Federation Force (2016, Nintendo 3DS) — A cooperative multiplayer spin-off.
• Metroid: Samus Returns (2017, Nintendo 3DS) — A comprehensive remake of Metroid II.
• Metroid Dread (2021, Nintendo Switch) — A direct sequel to Fusion bringing the series into the current generation.
• Metroid Prime 4 (Upcoming, Nintendo Switch) — The next mainline entry currently in development.

The Canonical Timeline Approach

Understanding the official story chronology requires recognizing that Nintendo established a specific narrative sequence that doesn’t align with publication dates. This timeline reflects when events occur within the Metroid universe, making it ideal for players primarily interested in narrative coherence rather than gaming history.

Beginning Samus’s Journey

The story begins with the original Metroid or its remake, Zero Mission, both of which initiate Samus’s adventures. Players can select either version depending on their technical preferences—the original provides historical authenticity, while Zero Mission offers modernized visuals and refined controls. Both games cover the same narrative events chronologically.

The Extended Prime Sequence

Following the initial adventure, the story continues through the Prime series in a specific order: Metroid Prime, Metroid Prime Hunters, Metroid Prime 2: Echoes, and Metroid Prime 3: Corruption. These games comprise an extended sequence within the timeline, significantly expanding the narrative scope between the original game and later developments. Metroid Prime: Federation Force also occupies this timeline segment.

The Middle Chapters

After the Prime sequence, the narrative progresses to Metroid II (either the original or the Samus Returns remake). This game represents a significant story event before transitioning into Super Metroid, which serves as a crucial turning point for the franchise’s narrative.

The Contemporary Arc

The final chapters of the timeline include Metroid: Other M, Metroid Fusion, and concludes with Metroid Dread. This sequence represents the most recent events within the official canon, bringing the narrative to its current state as of 2021’s Metroid Dread release.

Comparative Analysis: Which Approach Suits You?

Practical Recommendations for Different Player Types

For New Players Approaching the Franchise

Newcomers typically benefit from the chronological timeline approach, as this provides narrative continuity and context for character motivations and story events. However, starting with Zero Mission rather than the original Metroid is advisable, as it offers modern gameplay mechanics and enhanced accessibility while covering the same foundational story.

For Returning Veterans

Players with previous Metroid experience might prefer release order to revisit games in their original context. This approach allows appreciation for how the franchise evolved technically and creatively across different hardware generations.

For Hardcore Enthusiasts

Dedicated fans might consider playing through both sequences—first chronologically for story, then by release date to understand the franchise’s development. This comprehensive approach requires significant time investment but provides the most complete understanding of Metroid’s legacy.

Special Considerations for Remakes and Spin-Offs

The Metroid franchise includes several remakes and spin-off titles that complicate the playing experience. Zero Mission and Samus Returns are enhanced versions of earlier games, allowing players to choose between original and modern interpretations. For chronological playthrough, either version suffices, though remakes generally offer better accessibility.

Spin-off titles like Metroid Prime Pinball and Federation Force can be skipped without compromising story understanding, as they contribute minimally to overall narrative progression. These titles serve primarily as gameplay variations rather than essential story elements.

Anticipated Future Titles

Metroid Prime 4 remains in development with an announced Nintendo Switch release. However, its exact placement within the canonical timeline hasn’t been officially confirmed. Current expectations suggest it will occupy a position between Prime 3: Corruption and Metroid Prime: Federation Force based on narrative hints, though this remains speculative until official information emerges.

FAQ Section

Can I skip games and still understand the story?

While individual games tell contained stories, skipping entries may create narrative gaps. For optimal comprehension, following the recommended sequence provides the most coherent experience.

Should I play remakes or original versions?

This depends on personal preference. Remakes offer modernized controls and graphics, making them more accessible, while originals provide historical authenticity. Both versions cover the same narrative content.

Is the Prime series essential to the main story?

Yes, the Prime games occupy significant chronological positions and contribute important narrative elements, particularly regarding character development and world-building.

How long does a complete playthrough take?

Completing the entire series requires 80-150 hours depending on play style, difficulty settings, and whether you pursue collectibles and completionist objectives.

Which platform should I use for each game?

Original versions require their respective hardware, though some titles appear on Nintendo Switch Online for NES and Game Boy emulation. Modern remakes are generally more accessible through current platforms.