Metroid: Samus Returns – Unraveling the Sales Mystery of a 3DS Gem
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The sales figures for Metroid: Samus Returns are a topic of ongoing interest for fans and industry analysts alike. While pinning down precise numbers is always tricky, the best available data suggests that Metroid: Samus Returns sold roughly half a million copies by late summer 2018. This estimate is derived from VGChartz’s report of 470,000 physical copies sold as of July 21st, 2018, coupled with a reasonable estimation of digital sales (10-15% of total sales) and accounting for the month that followed. Ultimately, the game’s sales figures have remained a topic of fascination for fans and industry analysts alike.
The Sales Landscape and Context
While “half a million” might not sound like earth-shattering numbers compared to some of Nintendo’s other behemoths, it’s crucial to consider the context:
- Platform: Metroid: Samus Returns was a Nintendo 3DS exclusive. While the 3DS had a large install base, it was also towards the end of its lifecycle when the game was released. Many players were already looking ahead to the Nintendo Switch.
- Franchise History: The Metroid franchise, while beloved, has historically been a more niche series compared to Mario or Zelda. It doesn’t command the same mainstream appeal.
- Release Window: Released in September 2017, it faced competition from other major titles released around the same time.
- Remake Status: As a remake of Metroid II: Return of Samus, some potential buyers might have been hesitant, questioning if it was worth the investment when the original was available via other means.
Why Sales Figures are Complex
It’s important to understand that sales figures from sources like VGChartz are estimates based on retail data. They don’t always paint a complete picture because:
- Digital Sales Obscurity: Nintendo doesn’t publicly release specific digital sales numbers for its games. This makes it difficult to arrive at precise totals.
- Regional Variations: Sales performance varied across different regions. For instance, Japan tends to favor physical releases, while other regions might lean more towards digital.
- Long Tail Sales: Games continue to sell copies long after their initial release. These “long tail” sales are harder to track accurately over time.
The Game’s Impact and Legacy
Despite potentially modest sales numbers, Metroid: Samus Returns had a significant impact:
- Revival of the 2D Metroid Formula: It was the first proper 2D Metroid game in many years, reigniting interest in the classic style of gameplay.
- Critical Acclaim: The game was widely praised by critics for its updated mechanics, visuals, and faithfulness to the original while also improving it.
- Foundation for Metroid Dread: It laid the groundwork for the hugely successful Metroid Dread, which built upon the gameplay innovations introduced in Samus Returns. Its success can be at least partially attributed to the hype generated by Samus Returns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Metroid: Samus Returns rare?
While not exceptionally rare, Metroid: Samus Returns does command a decent resale value, often fetching prices above its original MSRP. This suggests limited availability and continued demand. The game continues to have fans even if it is not the newest release on the market.
2. Why is Metroid: Samus Returns so expensive?
Several factors contribute to the price of Metroid: Samus Returns on the secondary market: limited production runs, the game’s quality and popularity, and collector interest. This causes its price to grow higher over time,
3. Is Metroid: Samus Returns worth playing in 2024?
Absolutely! Metroid: Samus Returns remains a fantastic game with engaging gameplay, a compelling story, and excellent level design. It’s a must-play for any Metroid fan or anyone interested in the 2D Metroidvania genre.
4. How does Metroid: Samus Returns compare to Metroid Dread?
Metroid: Samus Returns introduced some key mechanics that were refined in Metroid Dread, such as the melee counter. While Dread is arguably the more polished and feature-rich game, Samus Returns is a worthy predecessor.
5. Is Metroid: Samus Returns canon?
Yes, Metroid: Samus Returns is considered part of the official Metroid timeline. It’s a remake of Metroid II: Return of Samus, which is also a canon entry in the series.
6. How many Metroids are in Metroid: Samus Returns?
There are 50 Metroids that Samus encounters throughout the game, an increase from the 39 in the original Metroid II.
7. What is the story of Metroid: Samus Returns?
Metroid: Samus Returns tells the story of Samus Aran’s mission to eradicate the Metroid species on their home planet, SR388. It follows her journey through the planet’s diverse environments as she faces increasingly powerful Metroid mutations.
8. What are the different endings in Metroid: Samus Returns?
Metroid: Samus Returns has nine different ending variations, unlocked based on the difficulty level and completion time. Item collection does not affect the ending displayed.
9. Does Metroid: Samus Returns have amiibo support?
Yes, Metroid: Samus Returns supports amiibo functionality. Specific amiibo, such as the Samus Aran and Metroid amiibo, unlock in-game features and content.
10. Who developed Metroid: Samus Returns?
Metroid: Samus Returns was developed by MercurySteam and published by Nintendo.
11. What genre is Metroid: Samus Returns?
Metroid: Samus Returns is a 2D action-adventure game, often referred to as a Metroidvania due to its focus on exploration, platforming, and combat in a interconnected world.
12. Is Metroid: Samus Returns a remake or a remaster?
Metroid: Samus Returns is considered a remake. It was rebuilt from the ground up, featuring new graphics, gameplay mechanics, and story elements, while remaining faithful to the original Metroid II: Return of Samus.
13. How long does it take to beat Metroid: Samus Returns?
The average playthrough of Metroid: Samus Returns takes around 10-12 hours, depending on the player’s skill level and exploration habits. Speedruns can be completed in much less time.
14. What are the main differences between Metroid II and Metroid: Samus Returns?
Key differences include updated graphics, a completely revamped control scheme with new abilities like the melee counter, expanded environments, and additional story elements.
15. Where can I learn more about the Metroid series and gaming culture?
For those seeking deeper insights into the world of gaming, including the Metroid series, exploring resources like the Games Learning Society can be incredibly valuable. The GamesLearningSociety.org website provides a platform for researchers, educators, and game enthusiasts to delve into the educational and cultural aspects of video games.