Metroid II: Return of Samus vs Metroid Fusion
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Metroid II: Return of Samus follows the intergalactic bounty hunter Samus Aran as she descends into the planet SR-388 to eliminate the Metroid species. The game introduced a non‑linear exploration system and a variety of power‑ups that expanded Samus's abilities. Originally released for the Game Boy in 1991, the title has been re‑released on modern platforms, preserving its pixel‑perfect graphics and atmospheric soundtrack. It remains a cornerstone of the Metroid series, praised for its tight controls and atmospheric level design.
Samus Aran returns in Metroid Fusion, a side‑scrolling adventure that pushes the series into darker territory. Set on the Biologic Research Center, the game mixes tight shooting, puzzle‑solving, and atmospheric storytelling. The title refines classic Metroid mechanics with new abilities, a seamless narrative, and a relentless alien threat, delivering a memorable single‑player experience for both veterans and newcomers.
- Tight, responsive controls
- Rich sense of exploration
- Memorable retro graphics and audio
- Challenging boss encounters
- Deep exploration with rewarding upgrades
- Atmospheric and cohesive storyline
- Tight, responsive controls
- Varied enemy and boss designs
- Limited save system with passwords only
- Repetitive enemy designs
- Screen flicker on original hardware emulation
- Linear progression compared to earlier Metroids
- Limited replayability after completion
- No multiplayer or co‑op options
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Alternatives to Metroid II: Return of Samus
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataMetroid Fusion is the safer, higher-rated default with modern conveniences like a save-anywhere system, whereas Metroid II: Return of Samus is a cheaper, retro option featuring a more sprawling map balanced by a restrictive password-only save system.
Key differences
- •Save System: Metroid Fusion features a modern save-anywhere system, while Metroid II relies on a limited password system at key checkpoints.
- •Price: Metroid II is priced at $9.99, whereas Metroid Fusion costs $39.99.
- •Critic Score: Metroid Fusion holds a higher critic score of 85/100 compared to Metroid II's 60/100.
- •Progression Structure: Metroid Fusion is noted for a more linear progression compared to earlier Metroids, while Metroid II encourages sprawling, interconnected map exploration and backtracking.
Gameplay & fun factor
Metroid Fusion wins with varied enemy/boss designs, environmental puzzles, and a gripping cinematic story, beating Metroid II's repetitive enemies.
Platform availability
Neither game's specific platform availability is detailed beyond mentioning console, handheld play, and original hardware emulation.
Price & value
Metroid II costs $9.99, making it significantly cheaper than Metroid Fusion's $39.99 price tag.
Multiplayer / co-op
Both games are strictly single-player with no multiplayer or co-op options available.
Content & replayability
Metroid Fusion notes limited replayability after completion, and Metroid II does not specify its exact replayability length.
Difficulty & accessibility
Metroid Fusion is more accessible due to a save-anywhere system, whereas Metroid II uses a restrictive password system and has screen flicker.
Graphics & performance
Metroid Fusion offers responsive controls optimized for handheld and console play, while Metroid II suffers from screen flicker on original hardware emulation.
Choose Metroid II: Return of Samus if…
Retro enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly, challenging classic experience with a sprawling map.
Choose Metroid Fusion if…
Players wanting a polished, highly-rated sci-fi adventure with modern save systems and a cinematic storyline.
Common questions
Which game is cheaper?
Metroid II: Return of Samus is cheaper at $9.99, compared to Metroid Fusion at $39.99.
How do the save systems compare?
Metroid Fusion has a save-anywhere system, while Metroid II uses a password system to resume progress at key checkpoints.
Do either of these games support multiplayer?
No, both Metroid II: Return of Samus and Metroid Fusion are single player only.