Is Samus Returns a Remake of Metroid 2? A Deep Dive

Yes, Metroid: Samus Returns, released in 2017 for the Nintendo 3DS, is indeed a remake of Metroid II: Return of Samus, originally released on the Game Boy in 1991. It’s far more than a simple graphical upgrade, however; it reimagines and expands upon the core gameplay, story, and world of the original, making it a significantly different, yet faithful, experience.

The Core Question: Remake, Reimagine, or Something Else?

While the basic narrative structure – Samus Aran travels to SR388 to exterminate the Metroid threat – remains the same, Samus Returns introduces substantial changes and enhancements that elevate it beyond a mere “remaster.” Let’s break down what makes it a true remake, but one that also stands on its own merit.

• Gameplay Overhaul: The most significant change is the addition of the Melee Counter. This new defensive maneuver drastically alters combat encounters, encouraging players to engage with enemies head-on and master precise timing. Furthermore, Samus’s mobility is greatly improved with 360-degree aiming while standing still, allowing for more strategic combat.

• Visual and Auditory Enhancements: Moving from the monochromatic Game Boy to the vibrant 3DS allows for a breathtaking visual upgrade. The environments are richly detailed, the creature designs are more menacing, and the atmosphere is palpable. The soundtrack is also completely reimagined, providing a haunting and immersive soundscape.

• Expanded Lore and Story: While the core narrative remains intact, Samus Returns fleshes out the Metroid lifecycle and the Chozo’s involvement in the story. New areas, enemies, and boss encounters expand the game world and provide deeper insights into the Metroid universe. Cutscenes and environmental storytelling offer more context and emotional weight to Samus’s mission.

• New Abilities and Suit Upgrades: Samus gains access to new abilities powered by Aeion Energy, adding another layer of strategy to exploration and combat. These abilities, like Scan Pulse (which reveals hidden pathways) and Lightning Armor (which provides temporary invincibility), provide players with new tools to overcome challenges.

Therefore, while it’s unquestionably a retelling of Metroid II: Return of Samus, Samus Returns is a substantial remake that reinterprets and modernizes the original game for a new generation. It retains the spirit of the original while delivering a fresh and exciting experience that respects both the past and the future of the Metroid franchise.

Delving Deeper: The Impact of Samus Returns

The impact of Samus Returns extends beyond its immediate success. It served as a critical proof-of-concept for the franchise’s return to form. The positive reception paved the way for Metroid Dread, which directly continues the story and refines the gameplay mechanics introduced in Samus Returns. This makes Samus Returns not only a great game in its own right but also an essential chapter in the overall Metroid saga. Learning more about how games evolve and impact society can be found at the Games Learning Society website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

H3 Is Metroid: Samus Returns a direct port of Metroid 2?

No. Metroid: Samus Returns is not a direct port. It’s a complete remake, featuring entirely new graphics, gameplay mechanics, level design, and even story elements.

H3 What are the major differences between Metroid 2 and Samus Returns?

The biggest differences include the Melee Counter, 360-degree aiming, vastly improved graphics and sound, new abilities powered by Aeion Energy, expanded lore, new areas, and re-designed enemy encounters.

H3 Is the map layout the same in both games?

While some core areas and pathways are recognizable, the map layout in Samus Returns is significantly different from Metroid II. Many areas have been redesigned or expanded, and new areas have been added.

H3 How does the Melee Counter change the gameplay?

The Melee Counter forces players to be more aggressive and strategic in combat. Successfully countering an enemy attack opens them up for a counterattack, often dealing significant damage or instantly defeating them. This adds a risk-reward element to encounters.

H3 What is Aeion Energy, and how does it work?

Aeion Energy is a resource that powers several new abilities in Samus Returns. These abilities, such as Scan Pulse, Lightning Armor, and Beam Burst, consume Aeion Energy and provide Samus with temporary advantages.

H3 Are there any new Metroid forms in Samus Returns?

Yes, Samus Returns introduces new variations of the Metroid lifecycle, providing unique challenges for Samus to overcome. These new forms offer diverse attack patterns and require different strategies to defeat.

H3 Does Samus Returns include any story elements not present in Metroid 2?

Yes. Samus Returns significantly expands on the lore surrounding the Chozo and their involvement with the Metroids on SR388. Cutscenes and environmental storytelling provide deeper insights into the Chozo’s history and motives.

H3 Is Samus Returns considered canon in the Metroid timeline?

Yes, Samus Returns is considered canon. Metroid Dread directly follows the events of Samus Returns, making it an essential part of the Metroid storyline.

H3 What is the difficulty level compared to Metroid 2?

Samus Returns is generally considered more challenging than the original Metroid II, especially on higher difficulty settings. The Melee Counter requires precise timing, and the new enemy attack patterns can be demanding.

H3 Does Samus Returns have multiple endings?

No, Samus Returns features only one ending, although the epilogue scene may vary slightly depending on certain achievements within the game.

H3 How long does it take to beat Samus Returns?

The average playthrough of Samus Returns takes approximately 8-12 hours, depending on the player’s skill level and completion rate.

H3 Is Samus Returns available on Nintendo Switch?

No, Samus Returns was released exclusively for the Nintendo 3DS. However, Metroid Dread, which continues the storyline, is available on the Nintendo Switch.

H3 What are the amiibo functionalities in Samus Returns?

Samus Returns supports several amiibo figures. The Samus Aran amiibo unlocks an Aeion Reserve Tank, the Metroid amiibo unlocks a Metroid Marker that reveals the location of nearby Metroids, and the Zero Suit Samus amiibo unlocks a Sound Test mode.

H3 Does Samus Returns feature any post-game content?

Yes, upon completing the game, players unlock a harder difficulty mode and the Fusion Mode, where Samus wears the Fusion Suit from Metroid Fusion.

H3 Where can I learn more about the Metroid series and its impact on game design?

You can learn more about the Metroid series, game design principles, and the role of games in education and society at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Conclusion: A Triumph in Remaking

Metroid: Samus Returns is more than just a remake; it’s a testament to how to revitalize a classic game for a modern audience. By respecting the source material while introducing meaningful changes and improvements, Nintendo and MercurySteam created an experience that is both nostalgic and innovative. It successfully bridges the gap between the old and the new, solidifying its place as a key entry in the Metroid franchise and setting the stage for the future of Samus Aran’s adventures.