Metroid Fusion, a classic game released by Nintendo in 2002, is an addition to the Metroid franchise with a new storyline, mechanics, and graphics for Game Boy Advance (GBA) players. The game’s storyline takes place after the events of Super Metroid, where Samus Aran becomes infected with a parasite and works to eliminate it before it spreads to the entire universe. The game’s graphics are impressive, featuring beautifully-crafted backgrounds, vivid animations, and good colour ranges. The game’s mechanics, including a fantastic control scheme, power-up system, and well-devised boss fights, make it a must-play game for Sci-Fi enthusiasts.
Metroid Fusion: A Sci-Fi Thriller with Great Graphics and Mechanics for GBA
Metroid Fusion is a classic game that the Nintendo released in 2002. This action-packed game is an addition in the long-running Metroid franchise, starting from the original game that dominated the NES in 1986. This time, the game is released for GBA (Game Boy Advance) with new mechanics, graphics and a completely new storyline that everyone can enjoy.
The Storyline
The Metroid Fusion’s storyline is a refreshing addition from the older games. The game takes place after the events of Super Metroid where Samus Aran defeated the mysterious organism, which was considered the Metroid’s species, and the space pirate named Mutter killed Mother Brain. However, things start changing when Samus goes to SR388 to exterminate the last instances of the X Parasites. These creatures are capable of mimicking the host’s abilities entirely while feeding on the hosts’ energy.
While on SR388, Samus gets infected, and her body is slowly consumed by the X parasite. In a sequence, her suit is taken from her, and she is kept in quarantine by the Federation Science Team. During her time in the lab, she meets an AI named ADAM, who guides her through her body’s recovery process and helps her understand the X Parasite.
The human-like intelligence ADAM orders Samus to eliminate the X Parasite after it killed off a chunk of the space station’s population. Samus, with the help of ADAM, discovers an assassination plot against her and manages to save the Space Station. But, will Samus be able to extinguish the X Parasite before it spreads out in the whole universe?
The Graphics
The graphics Metroid Fusion has to offer is impressive, given the fact that it is a GBA game. The game delivers beautifully crafted backgrounds, vivid and dynamic animations and sprite animations. It can certainly hold its own against games on more advanced systems.
The animations in the game are smooth, and the environments are wonderfully designed, complementing the game’s Sci-Fi theme well. The game’s range of colours is good, allowing you to distinguish between creatures, walls and floors quickly. The bosses are enormous and well designed, making the battles more exciting.
The Mechanics
Metroid Fusion’s mechanics are the heart and soul of every game. Thankfully, Metroid Fusion comes equipped with some of the best mechanics in the genre.
First, the game has a fantastic control scheme that allows you to manoeuvre through tight spaces, crawl corridors and shoot enemies with careful precision. These well-thought-out controls will be evident from the game’s first moments.
The game’s power-up system is some of the best in the franchise. You get to unlock new abilities and power-ups as you progress, which helps in defeating the X Parasites and reaching new areas of the Space Station. These include the Gravity Suit, Ice Missile, Spring Ball and much more.
The game’s boss fights are incredibly well devised, meaning you will have to use some strategy to defeat them. Each boss has its weaknesses and patterns, so it requires an analytical approach to get through them. Timing is also vital, and a single mistake can lead to a quick defeat, starting the section from scratch.
The Verdict
Metroid Fusion is a fantastic addition to the long-running franchise offering great graphics, impressive mechanics and an excellent storyline. The Game Boy Advance’s version of the game is a must-play for anyone who is a fan of Sci-Fi games.
The game’s well-designed maps, set in a Science Fiction universe, make it a genuine masterpiece. Playing the game feels like a never-ending exploration adventure, where you uncover power-ups, defeat bosses and unlock new worlds. The game’s frenetic pacing will keep you on your toes, and the incredible graphics and sound effects will immerse you in the game’s world.
Overall, Metroid Fusion is a great choice for the GBA gamers that adds to the Metroid franchise’s already impressive legacy.