An amazing remake.

User Rating: 10 | Metroid: Zero Mission GBA
Most remakes do not contain what made the original game so impressive. This is not the case with Metroid: Zero Mission. For those who do not know Zero Mission is a remake of the first Metroid game for the NES. You play as Samus Aran who is sent to Planet Zebes to destroy all the Metroids that have infected the planet and defeat the mechanical life form Mother Brain. Zebes is divided into different sections. Each section has its own theme. For example, Norfair resembles a volcano, whereas Brinstar has rocky terrain. Each section has its own theme song as well, which helps create an exciting or scary atmosphere, depending on which section you are exploring.

From beginning to end, the game is epic. It has an interesting level design. You can choose to progress through the game in a linear way or a non-linear way. Along the way, you will collect many new weapons. My favorite is the Screw Attack. This attack makes your spin jump deal damage whenever you use it. You will also battle massive, challenging bosses who will show no mercy. I always had a feeling of excitement every time I encountered a boss Metroid: Zero Mission delivers a solid story. There is never a boring moment.

The graphics were awesome. It uses a cell-shaded look, which works very well on the GBA. The environments and characters all have nice designs and Samus's animations are fluent. It also has some very good-looking full-length cut-scenes. This is easily the best-looking game on the GBA.

The controls were perfect. Move with the D-Pad, shoot with B, and jump with A, L aims diagonally, and R activates your missiles. If you press down on the D-pad twice, Samus will enter morph ball. This mode allows Samus to access seemingly inaccessible areas. You will gain upgrades for your morph ball too. Some upgrades include the bomb and the hi-jump. The high jump not only lets Samus jump in morph ball, but also increases the height at which you jump in your regular form.


If there is anything negative, I can say about the game, the story is a little bit short. This flaw is forgivable because you can replay the game to get items that you missed. If you haven't played this game yet, then what are you waiting for? Go out and buy one of the best games on the GBA.