#Noteworthy characteristics license
#Noteworthy characteristics series

The player must go slightly left from the starting point and collect the Maru Mari, or Morph Ball, which allows Samus to roll beneath obstacles. What makes Metroid so unique is the fact that not only does it allow you to backtrack through the world, but rather, requires it. At the time, many games only allowed for players to scroll right to advance. As technology goes, the original Metroid is noted as one of the first multi-way scrolling platformers, which have become more and more popular today. At the time, Metroid introduced a handful of new aspects to video games, such as the type of game-play and the inclusion of multiple endings.

#Noteworthy characteristics series

“Metroidvania” refers to any game with Platform Game elements that contain the major game-play concepts shared by the Metroid series (“Video Game: Metroid”). Metroid not only impacted many games, but also influenced a subtype of the Action Adventure genre game. This is one of her most notable power-ups. “Across the entire franchise, a number of characteristic elements have persisted, such as the continuous string of upgrades which Samus acquires over the course of the game, most notably the ‘Morph Ball’ which allows Samus to roll into the shape of a small ball for better maneuverability” (“Video Game: Metroid”).

#Noteworthy characteristics license

In the early 2000s, the Metroid license was sold to American developer Retro Studios, creating the Metroid Prime Trilogy for the Wii, which included new versions featuring updated graphics, motion control, and wide-screen support. The Metroid Series is one of Nintendo’s longest-running and most profitable franchises. Metroid II: Return of Samus for Nintendo Game Boy in 1991, Super Metroid for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System in 1994, and Metroid Fusion for the Game Boy Advance in 2002. Originally developed for the Nintendo Family Computer Disk System, the first game was followed by three sequels.

It is known for its soundtrack and dark atmosphere. Metroid is recognized by its unusual and distinctive features, which have continued throughout the series.

The ability to save a player’s progress and the inclusion of various endings in Metroid are only two examples of how the technology at the time influenced many following games. Its unique aspects including a female protagonist, a labyrinthine map, and a non-linear story created a game unlike any other at its time, and we still see the impact it has today. Metroid, first developed in 1986 in Japan, has since become one of the most well-known and influential games in video game history.