Metroid review

Metroid takes third place for its mix of action and exploration, which Nintendo calls the series' trademark. As bounty hunter Samus Aran, you go into the depths of planet Zebes to stop the Space Pirates, who have taken the Metroids, and their leader Mother Brain. The game opens up as you find items: Nintendo's page names the Morph Ball for reaching tight gaps and power-ups such as the Ice Beam, Varia Suit and Screw Attack. That loop of finding an upgrade and returning to a blocked path is why so many later games are compared to it. A used cartridge lists at $45.99 at DKOldies, which makes it one of the better values among Nintendo's own titles here. It is also on Nintendo Switch Online. Be ready for an older design, though: the maze is large and the game explains little, so new players should plan to sketch their own map.

Who it is for

Players who like mapping a large maze and earning upgrades that open new paths.

Price

Used NES cartridge from $45.99 at DKOldies (regular price, before sales).

Original price: $45.99
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 11, 2026.

Key features

• Play as bounty hunter Samus Aran
• Explore the depths of planet Zebes
• Final target: the Space Pirate leader Mother Brain
• Morph Ball ability to reach hidden spaces
• Power-ups including the Ice Beam, Varia Suit and Screw Attack

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Strong value for a major Nintendo title at $45.99 used
• Strength: Upgrades steadily change how you can move through the map
• Strength: In the Nintendo Switch Online NES library
• Weakness: A large maze that rewards patience more than quick play
• Weakness: Less familiar to younger players than Mario or Kirby
• Weakness: Hard opening for players used to modern games

Key facts

• Publisher: Nintendo
• Genre: Action exploration
• Main character: Samus Aran
• Setting: Planet Zebes
• PEGI rating (Nintendo UK): PEGI 7

Where it ranks

Metroid is No. 3 in our Best NES Games of All Time verdict.