Metroid
Metroid

Lore & Background

Understand the rich lore of Metroid. Learn the background of Samus Aran and the Galactic Federation's mission to eradicate Space Pirates on Zebes.

Lore & Background

Welcome, bounty hunter! Before you dive headfirst into the treacherous depths of Zebes, understanding the rich lore and background of the Metroid universe will not only enhance your experience but also provide crucial context for your mission. The Galactic Federation has entrusted you, Samus Aran, with a task of paramount importance: eradicate the Space Pirates and their biological weapon, the Metroids.

The Galactic Federation

The Galactic Federation is the primary governing body of the galaxy, a vast alliance of various sentient species dedicated to maintaining peace and order. They are the ones who hired Samus Aran, the galaxy's most formidable bounty hunter, to neutralize the threat posed by the Space Pirates. Their resources are immense, but the threat of the Metroids is so dire that they require a specialist like Samus to handle it.

The Space Pirates

These ruthless, militaristic organizations are the primary antagonists in the Metroid series. Led by the cunning Ridley and the monstrous Kraid, their goal is to seize control of the galaxy through any means necessary. They are known for their advanced weaponry, cybernetic enhancements, and a disturbing penchant for biological warfare. Their current base of operations is the planet Zebes, where they are attempting to harness the power of the Metroids.

  • Ridley: A terrifying, pterodactyl-like creature and Samus's personal nemesis. He is a high-ranking Space Pirate general known for his ferocity and cunning. You will encounter him in the depths of Norfair, a volcanic region of Zebes. Defeating him requires precise timing and utilizing your newly acquired Screw Attack and Ice Beam to freeze him mid-flight before unleashing a barrage of missiles.
  • Kraid: A colossal, reptilian beast and another Space Pirate general. Kraid is a formidable opponent found in the fiery caverns of Brinstar. To defeat him, you'll need to strategically fire missiles into his open mouth while dodging his projectile attacks. The Varia Suit, found in Norfair, will be invaluable here, protecting you from the extreme heat of his lair.

The Metroids

The titular creatures of the series, Metroids are parasitic organisms discovered on SR388. They possess the terrifying ability to drain the life energy of any living creature they latch onto, growing larger and more powerful with each victim. The Space Pirates have captured these creatures and are attempting to breed them for use as biological weapons. Your primary objective is to destroy all Metroids on Zebes and prevent them from falling into the wrong hands.

  • Weakness: Metroids are highly vulnerable to the Ice Beam. A single frozen Metroid can then be destroyed with five missiles. Without the Ice Beam, they are nearly invincible. Ensure you acquire the Ice Beam from a hidden chamber in Norfair, accessible after obtaining the Morph Ball Bomb from Brinstar.
  • Location: The Metroids are primarily held within the deepest reaches of Tourian, the Space Pirate's central research facility. Access to Tourian is blocked by four statues, each requiring a specific boss to be defeated (Kraid, Ridley, and two others) to unlock.

Samus Aran: The Bounty Hunter

You play as Samus Aran, a legendary bounty hunter raised by the Chozo, an ancient and technologically advanced bird-like species. Orphaned by Ridley's attack on her home colony, Samus was infused with Chozo DNA, granting her enhanced physical abilities and resilience. Her iconic Power Suit, a marvel of Chozo engineering, provides her with unparalleled protection and offensive capabilities. Throughout your journey, you will discover various upgrades for this suit, essential for overcoming Zebes's challenges.

  • Power Suit Upgrades:
    • Morph Ball: Allows Samus to curl into a small ball, accessing tight passages. Found early in Brinstar, usually after defeating the first set of enemies.
    • Bombs: Used in Morph Ball form to destroy certain blocks and reveal hidden paths. Acquired shortly after the Morph Ball in Brinstar.
    • Long Beam: Increases the range of Samus's beam weapon. Located in a hidden alcove in Brinstar, often requiring a bomb jump to reach.
    • Ice Beam: Freezes enemies, crucial for defeating Metroids. Found in a secret area of Norfair, often requiring careful platforming and bomb usage.
    • Wave Beam: Allows Samus's beam to pass through walls. A powerful upgrade located in a challenging section of Norfair.
    • Screw Attack: Grants Samus invincibility during a spinning jump, destroying most enemies on contact. This ultimate offensive upgrade is found in Tourian, typically after defeating Ridley and Kraid.
    • Varia Suit: Reduces damage taken and allows Samus to withstand extreme temperatures. Essential for surviving Norfair and Kraid's lair. Found in a well-hidden room in Norfair.
    • High Jump Boots: Significantly increases Samus's jump height, allowing access to previously unreachable areas. Located in a vertical shaft in Brinstar.

By understanding these core elements, you'll be better equipped to navigate the labyrinthine planet of Zebes, anticipate enemy movements, and ultimately fulfill your mission to save the galaxy from the Metroid threat. Good luck, bounty hunter!