Where can I play the original Metroid?

The original Metroid game can be played on several platforms, including the Nintendo Switch through the Nintendo Switch Online NES library, the Nintendo 3DS eShop, the Wii U eShop, and the NES Classic mini console. This allows players to experience the classic action-adventure game that started the Metroid series in various ways, depending on their preferred gaming setup and available devices.

Introduction to Metroid

Overview of the Game

The Metroid series, with its rich history and engaging gameplay, has captivated audiences for decades. At its core, the original Metroid game, released for the Famicom Disk System (FDS) in 1986 and later for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in 1987, introduced players to a unique blend of exploration, platforming, and combat. This blend, along with its eerie atmosphere, has become a hallmark of the series.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

1. Can you play the original Metroid on Switch? Yes, the original Metroid is available on the Nintendo Switch through the Nintendo Switch Online NES library.
2. Can I play Metroid on my phone? While the original Metroid is not natively available on phones, AM2R (Another Metroid 2 Remake), a fan-made remake, is available for Android devices and offers a similar experience.
3. What console was the first Metroid on? The first Metroid was released for the Famicom Disk System (FDS) in 1986 and later for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in 1987.

Series and Game Details

4. Is Metroid 1 a good game? Despite its age, the original Metroid is still praised for its atmosphere and gameplay, making it a good game for those interested in classic action-adventure titles.
5. Is Metroid kid-friendly? The suitability of Metroid for children depends on the individual child’s sensitivity and maturity level, as the game involves shooting and some dark themes, but it lacks explicit content.
6. Is Metroid a Japanese game? Yes, Metroid is a series developed and published by Nintendo, a Japanese company, and the first game was originally released in Japan for the Famicom Disk System.

Characters and Development

7. How old is Samus? Samus Aran’s age is not consistently stated across all Metroid media, but in the manga Metroid: Volume 1, she is depicted as being 3 years old during a pivotal event and 14 when she leaves Zebes.
8. How tall is Samus? According to Metroid: Other M and the Super Metroid Nintendo’s Player’s Guide, Samus is approximately 6 feet 3 inches (190 cm) tall and weighs around 200 pounds (90 kg) when wearing her Power Suit.
9. When was Samus revealed to be a woman? Samus Aran was first revealed to be a woman at the end of the original Metroid game, provided the player completed it within a certain time limit, a surprise that was significant in 1986.

Genre and Influence

10. Is Metroid based on Alien? The Metroid series has acknowledged influences from the Alien film franchise, among other sources, reflecting in its themes and creature designs.
11. Is there a remake of Metroid 1? Metroid: Zero Mission serves as a remake of the original Metroid, offering updated graphics and gameplay while maintaining the core story and atmosphere.

Availability and Reception

12. Is Metroid on NES Classic? Yes, the original Metroid is included in the NES Classic library, making it accessible to players who own this mini console.
13. Why is Metroid scary? The Metroid series is known for its dark atmosphere and sometimes gruesome elements, which can be unsettling for some players, contributing to its scare factor.
14. Is Metroid Dread OK for a 9-year-old? Metroid Dread is rated T for Teen and, while it can be challenging, it is generally suitable for mature children around the age of 9, depending on the child’s sensitivity to game content.
15. Why doesn’t Metroid sell well in Japan? According to developer insights, Metroid tends to appeal more to hardcore gamers in Japan, which limits its broader appeal and sales in the country compared to other Nintendo franchises.

Conclusion

The Metroid series, with its rich history, engaging gameplay, and iconic protagonist Samus Aran, continues to captivate audiences worldwide. For those looking to experience the original Metroid, it is readily available on several Nintendo platforms, including the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo 3DS, Wii U, and NES Classic, offering a mix of nostalgia and challenge that defines the series. Whether you’re a veteran gamer or new to the world of Metroid, there’s never been a better time to explore the depths of Zebes and discover why this series remains a beloved part of gaming culture.