Metroid Fusion

 Game Boy Advance
User Score
9.0

Universal acclaim- based on 441 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 392 out of 441
  2. Mixed: 40 out of 441
  3. Negative: 9 out of 441
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. Tokyochuchu
    May 27, 2013
    10
    Metroid Fusion is a near perfect 2D adventure game. The controls are pinpoint precise, the music and sound design are excellent and the famous atmosphere of the Metroid series has been carried over exactly. The difficulty is just about right too. There are some challenging bosses to be dealt with (namely the SA-X chase sequence and Nightmare) but nothing feels over-the-top unlike MetroidMetroid Fusion is a near perfect 2D adventure game. The controls are pinpoint precise, the music and sound design are excellent and the famous atmosphere of the Metroid series has been carried over exactly. The difficulty is just about right too. There are some challenging bosses to be dealt with (namely the SA-X chase sequence and Nightmare) but nothing feels over-the-top unlike Metroid Prime 2. the level design is fantastic too. Due to the game's more plot heavy nature, you've always got an objective to take care of. This makes the game more accessible than previous Metroid games. That said, the game still gives you more than enough exploration to do and parts like the AQA labyrinth will have you scratching your head and begging for a guide! Basically speaking, I love Metroid Fusion. It's one of my favorite 2D games of all time and a worthy successor to legendary Super Metroid.… Expand
  2. Metroidguy4
    May 22, 2013
    10
    Metroid Fusion is a great game. The graphics, controls and music are excellent in the game and these are things that I have come to expect in the Metroid series.
  3. ChuckK.
    Mar 19, 2004
    10
    Great pacing, control, story, gameplay. can be a little tough to figure out at times, but it's worth the effort. no complaints.
  4. J3
    May 31, 2006
    10
    An amazing game. Sure it is a bit short and it tells you everything you have to do, but there are many hidden items that are hard to find and harder to get. To really beat this game, you must beat it with all the items in under 6 and a half hours. This gives you a harder and better ending. Which is challenging to most players. The good thing about the co iving you orders is that it is An amazing game. Sure it is a bit short and it tells you everything you have to do, but there are many hidden items that are hard to find and harder to get. To really beat this game, you must beat it with all the items in under 6 and a half hours. This gives you a harder and better ending. Which is challenging to most players. The good thing about the co iving you orders is that it is very clear where you have to go but it provides challenges on how to get there, and if you arent careful, the first few times you will need to watch carefully to beat the bosses as some(like the spider) can take out three life bars in one hit, and will continuously hit you if you don't know how to evade it.… Expand
  5. Timkey
    Feb 4, 2014
    10
    My first Metroid and it was a great experience! Such great mix of exploring, adventure and action in 2D that was just amazing for that time. The bosses were really unique and challenging. That is for sure a must-buy.
  6. kasparius
    Nov 5, 2014
    10
    Some people seem to think the game is too linear, but to find all the items I can guarantee you will be fumbling around for hours. I personally think it's a great balance of story and exploration. I think the gameplay and level designed has been refined from Super Metroid (which is a great game as well, don't get me wrong). This is probably my favorite Metroid game so far.
  7. Akauro
    Nov 27, 2016
    9
    Геймплей 9/10 . Саундтрек 8/10. Сюжет 9/10. Игра атмосферная, очень крутая. Игра бывает местами занудная, но все равно остается крутой. Советую поиграть
  8. JonS.
    Dec 7, 2002
    10
    Amazing! Even the toughest Metroid fans like myself will be very satisfied.
  9. Fliff
    May 21, 2017
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game does a few fantastic things for the Metroid series. First, it gives a fresh take on the Metroid formula. No, it's not quite as focused on exploration this time around, but that isn't unforgivably bad. It makes up for this with an incredible atmosphere, horrifying bosses, and the best inclusion, SA-X. The way this monster stalks the player throughout feels more at home in a Resident Evil game, but SA-X also serves as a litmus test for how powerful Samus becomes through the game. At first SA-X will shred you in seconds, but by the end you are equals.

    The next best part of this game is the interesting characterization it gives to Samus, and ultimately the great opening it makes for the series. It ends with Samus becoming an outlaw in the eyes of the Federation, and flying off into the unknown.

    NOW MAKE A SEQUEL NINTENDO    … Expand
  10. Tobmast
    Jan 24, 2013
    10
    The best metroid ever.
  11. birdman3
    Sep 16, 2017
    7
    I played this game 6 years ago when I bought a 3DS. I decided to replay it in anticipation of the new Metroid game coming out this weekend. I've not played any Metroid game other than this one, and while I anticipated the plot to be light, I didn't realize it would result in the game being only about 10 hours long (4:45 on my playthrough- I guess I died a lot?). A lot of the game seems toI played this game 6 years ago when I bought a 3DS. I decided to replay it in anticipation of the new Metroid game coming out this weekend. I've not played any Metroid game other than this one, and while I anticipated the plot to be light, I didn't realize it would result in the game being only about 10 hours long (4:45 on my playthrough- I guess I died a lot?). A lot of the game seems to be involved in finding secrets, but I found this to be more tedious than enjoyable- basically, I found myself throwing bombs at every wall and floor in hopes of finding a secret, or a place to advance the level. In fact, it seems that at least once every level you have to bomb an inconspicuous part of the wall in order to advance, or find a secret corridor as a ball. It didn't make me like the game any more, which made me wish it had been more straightforward and less frustrating. I found the combat to be pretty enjoyable, although one-sided. Samus is a killing machine, but she takes a lot of damage when she gets hit. Luckily, most of the enemies don't have ranged attacks, so it's easy to avoid most damage. Boss fights were slightly more challenging- basically, I would spend one life in order to find the bosses weakness, die, load my save, and then abuse the weakness through brute force. Not too difficult, until the final boss, which provided a real challenge. Overall, I enjoyed the game and its mechanics (due to the quick pace of the game, upgrades came fast and furious, which was enjoyable), but I hope that the new 3DS game coming out introduces something a little beyond what we see here.… Expand
  12. celtqy
    Jun 18, 2013
    9
    It is like Megaman and Castlevania in a cool scifi setting with evil space parasites!
    Best Metroid on GBA because it looks and plays better than Zero Mission.
  13. thryce3
    Nov 3, 2020
    9
    It directs you more than the other installments, but It make up for it with a more involved story. Even though you are mostly locked into one path, it still gives the sense of exploration. Unfortunately, if you try to go away from your objective, you sometimes get pretty far before finding you can't move on and have to backtrack. It's an annoyance for sure, especially if you've beenIt directs you more than the other installments, but It make up for it with a more involved story. Even though you are mostly locked into one path, it still gives the sense of exploration. Unfortunately, if you try to go away from your objective, you sometimes get pretty far before finding you can't move on and have to backtrack. It's an annoyance for sure, especially if you've been trained by other Metroidvanias to always look for all the secrets you can get before going where you're supposed to. Also, why is the space jump always so hard to control?
    Anyway, other than that it's an incredible game that should be experienced by any fan of the genre.    … Expand
  14. PHDIKOULAS
    Feb 8, 2021
    10
    A true gem,if you like super metroid get this thank me later, see you next mission
  15. GVB
    Dec 21, 2022
    6
    It's not bad, but i played it right after Metroid Zero Mission and i couldn't avoid the comparison. Repetitive, less freedom than in ZM, and the story is not very good. Too cliché. And something that i don't understand is why the levels are so easy but at the same time the bosses are so hard.
  16. BeeSting1
    Jan 24, 2022
    6
    Good

    - good old metroidvania gameplay. The animations are nice. The weapons feel great to shoot. - the progression is more linear, which I personally prefer. - space jumping and wall jumping are easier to execute. The introduction off ledge clinging was also great. Bad - still too many hidden blocks. A few really ambiguous ones that I couldn't be discovered unless I bombed    Good

    - good old metroidvania gameplay. The animations are nice. The weapons feel great to shoot.

    - the progression is more linear, which I personally prefer.

    - space jumping and wall jumping are easier to execute. The introduction off ledge clinging was also great.

    Bad

    - still too many hidden blocks. A few really ambiguous ones that I couldn't be discovered unless I bombed and power bombed every corner of the level. It's not only a waste of resources, but also time.

    - i hate how hitting up during a diagonal jump cancels the momentum of the jump completely. This really threw me off. This made fighting some of the bosses very annoying.    … Expand
  17. Exzodium
    Nov 4, 2011
    10
    If you're a fan of the Metroid series as well as a game hobbyist, this is a fine addition to any collection. With the large map exploration and item hunting people have come to expect of the series, you will have many fun hours to come with this game.
  18. SeanT.
    Mar 30, 2004
    9
    A solid title that captures the classic gameplay established in Super Metroid down to a tee! Challenging, intense and even nostalgic; Metroid 4 offers gamers a taste of the good life and gives dear Samus a new lease on life. With a slightly different flavor than before, this new spin on Samus comes packed with some awesome gamecube interactivity unlocking the Fusion suit in Metroid Prime A solid title that captures the classic gameplay established in Super Metroid down to a tee! Challenging, intense and even nostalgic; Metroid 4 offers gamers a taste of the good life and gives dear Samus a new lease on life. With a slightly different flavor than before, this new spin on Samus comes packed with some awesome gamecube interactivity unlocking the Fusion suit in Metroid Prime and the original Metroid game in Metroid Fusion. There's not excuse for not owning this. Period.… Expand
  19. DylanW.
    Feb 8, 2004
    10
    This is a great game with plenty of challenges, in every way this game is greatand extremely fun. And if you just play for cool abilities, the new abilities in this are eye-popping. BUY IT NOW IF YOU DON'T HAVE IT! YOU WILL LOVE IT!
  20. GregJ.
    Dec 19, 2002
    10
    This game is a must buy. if you're a metroid fan this is a must have it brings back the classic metroid into a funfilled GBA game with better graphics. BEST GAME OUT THERE I THINK!!!
  21. CoreyS.
    May 25, 2006
    9
    The first and best Metroid game I have ever played and also one of the only ones I've finished. It is a bit short but it is still a great game.
  22. mrnice
    Mar 2, 2013
    7
    A good game that might seem like loads of fun but also frustrates with a high difficulty level. Since the save points are rooms that you find throughout the levels, there might be unnecessary travel between a load point and the bosses you will almost invariably fail to beat in first try. You might give up halfway through the five-hour playthrough, and that is a shame for the game. ItA good game that might seem like loads of fun but also frustrates with a high difficulty level. Since the save points are rooms that you find throughout the levels, there might be unnecessary travel between a load point and the bosses you will almost invariably fail to beat in first try. You might give up halfway through the five-hour playthrough, and that is a shame for the game. It offers some variety (timed sections and enemies to hide/flee from) but mostly follows the pattern: standard platforming action with some exploration and then hard boss fights every 20 minutes or so. The series might have pioneered game mechanics 20 years ago, but today most of it is seen before. The GBA cartridge places heavy restrictions technically, so of course you can forgive various shortcomings, but the game could have been more friendly to newbies.… Expand
  23. AndrewC.
    Feb 7, 2007
    10
    Metroid Fusion is, without a doubt, the very best 2D Metroid game out there. Remember Super Metroid? Forget about it. Everything good about that game is here, but PERFECT. Perfect controls, visuals, sound, length, story, weapons, variety, and...well, everything. I have played this game through at least six times already, and I plan to go again. GET IT NOW!
  24. OuroborosChoked
    Nov 17, 2012
    3
    I don't play Metroid games to be told what to do. If you like the exploration and independence of the other games, avoid Fusion. It is absolutely linear, plodding, and just plain wearying to play. Then there's the art. A lot has been said about how good the game looks, and I won't lie: it's pretty good. However, they try to throw so much on screen at times, it's hard to even tell what'sI don't play Metroid games to be told what to do. If you like the exploration and independence of the other games, avoid Fusion. It is absolutely linear, plodding, and just plain wearying to play. Then there's the art. A lot has been said about how good the game looks, and I won't lie: it's pretty good. However, they try to throw so much on screen at times, it's hard to even tell what's foreground or background, what you need to be paying attention to and what you should ignore. It just ends up looking messy. Oh, and this is the game that introduced the Adam Malkovich albatross that culminated in the fiasco that is Other M.

    This isn't the worst game in the series, but it DEFINITELY doesn't deserve the 100/100s that you see over on the critic side or the 10/10s on the user side. If you want a "return to form" GBA Metroid, play Zero Mission. The Prime games are also good examples of how to do Metroid gameplay (Hint: it's about the exploration).    … Expand
  25. IanW.
    Oct 4, 2003
    1
    Linear, predictable, main enemies far too easy, bosses too hard. Poor show.
  26. B.S.
    Feb 8, 2003
    9
    what the hell new layout? O well I like megaman zero better cause I didn't have to be a chicken sh.t and run away from a copy of myself(did enough of that in x6)
  27. UnknownX
    Mar 16, 2003
    10
    Cool Sh.t!
  28. EGO-Xx
    Mar 31, 2003
    10
    It's the SH!T
  29. ChristopherG.
    Jul 30, 2005
    10
    I think, thats the best game for GBA.
  30. MarioG.
    Feb 27, 2003
    10
    It's a super Game!!!!!!!
  31. JaysonC-B
    Mar 20, 2004
    10
    Great Game ^^.
  32. CloudStrife
    Apr 15, 2005
    10
    Come on Ian W. you cannot RATE A GAME wit a 1!! Any game at least must take a 3. Come on dont be so low. I love the game.
  33. DivineStorm
    Jul 11, 2008
    10
    An incredible game! Actually better than zero mission, because this game has a much deeper storyline and is three times longer than zero mission! Also beautiful graphics and gameplay.
  34. Sourgorilla
    Aug 17, 2003
    10
    Great gam but can't get past sector five, no way out.
  35. NickW.
    Apr 22, 2004
    10
    Great sound,graphics, and story.
  36. TBone
    Feb 16, 2008
    7
    Play control, visuals, sound are all outstanding. This is a BEAUTIFUL handheld game. My problem is with the difficulty level. You're weak and the enemies do TOO MUCH DAMAGE. Boss battles can be a major pain as well. On top of this you have to move fast to receive the best ending (I hear.) I sadly had to give it up out of frustration.
  37. DemonicAngel
    Dec 28, 2004
    8
    In the solitary, exploration-based Metroid series, Metroid Fusion was something of an anomaly in that there was a well-defined story, and in that you were led around by the hand (well, voice... well, OK, printed text) of a computerized CO. Fortunately, whilst this tends to funnel the player into following a specific route through the game, it doesn't detract from the gameplay in the In the solitary, exploration-based Metroid series, Metroid Fusion was something of an anomaly in that there was a well-defined story, and in that you were led around by the hand (well, voice... well, OK, printed text) of a computerized CO. Fortunately, whilst this tends to funnel the player into following a specific route through the game, it doesn't detract from the gameplay in the slightest. To compensate for the reduced emphasis on navigating and exploring, Intelligent Systems have seen fit to jack up the difficulty significantly. Normal enemies soon start sapping whole energy tanks with one hit, and the huge bosses are downright horrible and will quickly kill you if you don't pay attention, making this probably the hardest of the latter-day 2D Metroids (not counting Metroid and M2:RoS). The unfolding story, whilst not very original, is conveyed well in the progression of the tasks you'll have to complete and the events that take place as you play. Graphics are for the most part very good, attractive and uncluttered. Sound is also very good, considering the limitations of the GBA's hardware. -- Overall, if you can put up with the difficulty and the story-driven nature of the game, Metroid Fusion is a worthwhile addition to your library.… Expand
  38. MinceMeat
    Nov 14, 2005
    10
    Interesting storyline, highly recommended
  39. lordjrs
    Apr 5, 2012
    10
    A masterpiece. An epic return to Samus, nice GBA graphics, the plot is very good indeed and hard difficulty... I loved this game when I was a child, and still loving it now.
  40. andrewrox
    Mar 21, 2012
    9
    good game......aparently this game used to be very popular i could tell by asking ll my friends at school......i got this game in the end out of curiousity....and this game is extremely challenging and very action packed....the bosses are far beyond another world hard after you beat the first three bosses.......in the end i gave this game to a friend who hates this game and wreaks havoc ongood game......aparently this game used to be very popular i could tell by asking ll my friends at school......i got this game in the end out of curiousity....and this game is extremely challenging and very action packed....the bosses are far beyond another world hard after you beat the first three bosses.......in the end i gave this game to a friend who hates this game and wreaks havoc on it....and its all because of the diffuculty of the game....if you have bad tempers with insanly hard games this game is not your type....in the end i enjoy this game and still wonder why did i give this game away....… Expand
  41. wesker2012
    May 28, 2012
    6
    This game was solid. Fun game. Nothing extraordinary tho.
  42. Marc
    Mar 21, 2004
    8
    Samus Samus Samus...where art thou been all these years? You have been missed.
  43. RobertA.
    Apr 6, 2004
    10
    Can you hear that. that sounds good. really good. best sound ever.
  44. JoeS.
    Mar 19, 2004
    10
    What the hell are you doing?! Turn off your computer and Buy This game NOW. If you don't hav a GBA buy GBA then buy this game!!!!!
  45. SamusL.
    Nov 18, 2003
    9
    I love everything about this game! I beat it in a little over 11 hours. I really would have beaten it alot sooner except for that one tank, you know the one I'm talking about! Otherwise, a Grade A game!!
  46. Jarek
    Dec 28, 2006
    10
    It's very interesting game with great graphic, story, and sound. I like this game since I saw first time it, this is no easy, but no hard game. The difficult is medium and I think Nintendo can continue creating games with this story
  47. Incarta
    Feb 7, 2014
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is a tough metroid compared to the likes of super metroid but I really enjoyed the challenge. It sucks you in with it's atmosphere and pacing. And you'll be left dreading the sound of distant footsteps... because you'll learn that death is about to shoot you in the ass.… Expand
  48. BlacksitePSU
    Feb 17, 2013
    10
    I don't really care if this Metroid title is more linear than previous titles or that someone might not like Samus Aran's new look. The gameplay mechanics are solid, the atmosphere is eerie and the story is interesting. There's a reason critics have rated it highly.
  49. ghorahn
    Jan 3, 2012
    9
    So fun...but so much more linear than the other games of this style that I've been enjoying since Super Metroid and Castlevania:SotN. But a bit of linearity isn't necessarily an awful thing...it certainly help you avoid those huge blocks of time spent lost and wondering what you were supposed to get to next. But in my latest play-through of this game (after it was released as part of theSo fun...but so much more linear than the other games of this style that I've been enjoying since Super Metroid and Castlevania:SotN. But a bit of linearity isn't necessarily an awful thing...it certainly help you avoid those huge blocks of time spent lost and wondering what you were supposed to get to next. But in my latest play-through of this game (after it was released as part of the 3DS ambassador program), I played through the game in a little over three hours. That's not a lot of gameplay...though I'm sure part of the problem was that I'd played through the game 4-5 times before (although I don't think the last time was within the past five years or so). Anyhow, I love this game style, I enjoyed the game, I want more metroid/castlevania games like this. C'mon developers, hook us up.… Expand
  50. Peaceduke
    Sep 6, 2021
    9
    It's like a compact focused and condensed Super Metroid experience. Atmospheric and tense, also bosses are one of the toughest in the series.
  51. VonSeux
    Dec 18, 2013
    8
    Excellent game faithful to the SNES title. Too bad Nintendo stoped making theese. It would accompany well enough on DS and 3DS parallell 2D games to the franchise.
  52. ILIKESTODRUM
    May 14, 2013
    10
    Metroid Fusion is not only my favorite metroid game but one of my favorite games in general. Now most people write this game off due to it's linear approach because most metroid games pride themselves in being non linear. But Metroid Fusion decides to go linear and it actually works for this game. its also quite a lengthy game too. PLEASE pick this game up I just can't do it justice.
  53. guitarguy001
    Apr 25, 2014
    9
    An excellent GBA platformer. Great story, more action-packed than previous Metroid games, great soundtrack and beautiful visuals. While the game is very linear, in contrast to previous Metroid games, this game is excellent and easily one of the best games on the GBA.
  54. Matt2790
    Oct 26, 2021
    9
    Playing this for the first time and even today you can see how great this game is.. sound, gameplay, atmosphere.. epic!
  55. headspacej
    Aug 18, 2014
    9
    Yeah, the computer guide is annoying, and you don't have as much freedom to explore, but this is still a fantastic game. Love the WiiU version -- plays so well and looks great on the gamepad.
  56. JRo55
    Sep 30, 2014
    9
    My personal favorite 2D Metroid game. The music and graphics are great. The gameplay is very polished and the boss fights are some of the best in the series. Metroid Fusion also has great atmosphere. The only flaw about this game is how linear it can be at times, but besides that this game is a must have.
  57. RodrigoMan636
    Mar 20, 2016
    8
    A game that anyone can enjoy if you like games with good mysteries and a story well worked, with a comfortable gameplay and levels with interesting level designs.

    I recommend this game
  58. Thirty2
    Sep 23, 2016
    10
    I'm a big fan of 2D sidescrolling platformers. I also love Sci-Fi. And atmospheric games? There's nothing better. Metroid: Fusion is a perfect version of all these things. As a sidescroller, it feels good to play, with Samus' missiles being incredibly satisfying to shoot and her controls tight. Everything looks and sounds amazing and the enemy designs are some of the best I've ever seenI'm a big fan of 2D sidescrolling platformers. I also love Sci-Fi. And atmospheric games? There's nothing better. Metroid: Fusion is a perfect version of all these things. As a sidescroller, it feels good to play, with Samus' missiles being incredibly satisfying to shoot and her controls tight. Everything looks and sounds amazing and the enemy designs are some of the best I've ever seen (and some of the bosses are gaming gold).
    The game gets legitimately scary; not only are you all alone in the BSL station, but occasionally you'll encounter a particularly frightening enemy known as the SA-X that is far more powerful than you. These sections of the game become a sort of stealth mode where you'll have to hide and wait for the SA-X to pass you by. One part in particular stands out: a terrifying section where you have to run directly past the SA-X, in full view, and shake it off before it can blast you to pieces with its lasers.
    The game's reasonably lengthy and is pretty difficult to 100%, so it's probably worth whatever you're paying for it. Especially since it's so darn good. It's also my favorite game, by the way. Just putting that out there.    … Expand
  59. danistorm
    Jan 19, 2019
    9
    Fusion is Fear, isolation, conflict and success.

    Gameplay: the gameplay is just perfect, it feels like super metroid but with some nice additions. The level design is awesome, they put you in really extreme situations and make you feel the pressure. SA-X situations and set ups are awesome, how they use the sounds when she is not being seen on the main camera, the way she looks at the    Fusion is Fear, isolation, conflict and success.

    Gameplay: the gameplay is just perfect, it feels like super metroid but with some nice additions. The level design is awesome, they put you in really extreme situations and make you feel the pressure. SA-X situations and set ups are awesome, how they use the sounds when she is not being seen on the main camera, the way she looks at the player the first time...everything is really nice.

    As i previously said the level design it is just perfect, the only "problem" could be that you are guided the whole game, and in that part it lacks the exploration and the "oh my god im alone in a huge planet" feeling. But they use the guidance to create great situations and create amazing bosses bit by bit (nightmare and SA-X sudden encounters, im looking at you)

    Graphics: Pixel art at its finest. GBA possibilities are awesome and the development team knew it.

    Music: great atmospheric pieces like sector 1 (perfect for the initial set up) and others really unique and different in some way like Nightmare's theme make this a memorable ost.

    Overall: an incredible game, go play it at night with earphones and enjoy the fear and isolation! Just play it!    … Expand
  60. weskergamer
    Apr 8, 2017
    9
    metroid fusion es para mi el mejor juego de toda la historia de la GBA. Es un juego un poco mas lineal q los anteriores pero igual sigue siendo muy divertido y bueno para todos los q disfrutan los plataformas de exploracion como metroid
  61. Captain_Faramir
    Apr 1, 2017
    8
    8.7 - Came close to being a 9/10, but the main flaw of this metroid game is the cheap difficulty at times, specifically The Nightmare boss. Otherwise, it still has the core elements of metroid that are good along with decent environments and missions.
  62. BlakDak666
    Jun 7, 2017
    9
    I was never a huge Metroid fan, but playing Metroid Fusion as a child was an amazing experience for me and a great hook to the decades long franchise. Even as an adult with a critical eye Metroid Fusion is nothing short of absolute brilliance with the way it handles its shooting/platform/exploration style. Its story is very well done, with the pacing of the next big around every cornerI was never a huge Metroid fan, but playing Metroid Fusion as a child was an amazing experience for me and a great hook to the decades long franchise. Even as an adult with a critical eye Metroid Fusion is nothing short of absolute brilliance with the way it handles its shooting/platform/exploration style. Its story is very well done, with the pacing of the next big around every corner feels genius and never dull at all. The atmosphere is surprisingly spectacular, with a touch of a dark element that almost at times makes it feel like a horror game more than a shooter. The SA-X are outstanding in putting tension and even dread into players when forced to run from them. Some of bosses also have this sort of creepy and dark aura about them that made them unsettling to fight (and this mind you is all on a handheld game where compromises are made instead of being put on a console. IF Metroid Prime is the magnum opus of Nintendo's console shooters (and all shooters in general), then Metroid Fusion is the magnum opus of Nintendo's handheld devices when it comes to 2D shooters.

    The only drawbacks are minimal, but perhaps the difficulty could be a bit hard for newcomers. I definitely was overwhelmed when I, a noobie, had to rush to a reactor core system under a time limit and fight everything along the way. Some environmental spots are not as clearly defined and traps can be a bit cheap. The Frost X for instance can go through walls to attack Samus, which I can say is a bit unfair. Nitpicks aside, Metroid Fusion is a brilliant handheld game that can still please my adult mind as much as when I was a little kid.    … Expand
  63. PizzaW0lf
    Nov 27, 2021
    8
    Metroid Fusion is the 4th game in the Metroid timeline and continues the adventures of Samus. When it comes to this game, it's a very solid entry in the Metroid series but there are some flaws with the game that really holds it back from being great. The SA-X sections were a great idea but ended up being pretty lame and didn't happen too often so it didn't really leave an impression on me.Metroid Fusion is the 4th game in the Metroid timeline and continues the adventures of Samus. When it comes to this game, it's a very solid entry in the Metroid series but there are some flaws with the game that really holds it back from being great. The SA-X sections were a great idea but ended up being pretty lame and didn't happen too often so it didn't really leave an impression on me. The game is also way too linear for a Metroid game and it really frustrated me how much the game tells you where to go. However, it's not all bad as I think the difficulty is really nice and the boss fights are really good. The environments are surprisingly really well made and I love seeing them. Overall, Metroid Fusion is still worth playing but it is too linear. If it was more open like Zero Mission, I'd give this game a 9.… Expand
  64. Kosama
    Oct 21, 2021
    8
    Mi Metroid menos favorito, no sé que fue peor los bosses o Adam.
    Aunque termine disfrutándolo bastante
  65. FrankoAmmo
    Jan 19, 2018
    9
    I've recently completed this game on the Wii U...what a great game!! It is the best Metroid game I have played so far (Super Metroid 1994, Fusion 2002 and Zero Mission 2004). It had everything I like in a game besides the hidden items...simply cannot find them sometimes...I had to look on the internet.
  66. ironzombi
    Aug 16, 2017
    10
    My first introduction to the metroid games and it has hooked me, this game is a masterpiece, it looks stunning on the GBA and plays just as good with the controls feeling spot on, this game has me very hyped for the upcoming samus returns and has made me a metroid fan.

    It is really impressive how much atmosphere this game mages to project, with a combination of great visuals and    My first introduction to the metroid games and it has hooked me, this game is a masterpiece, it looks stunning on the GBA and plays just as good with the controls feeling spot on, this game has me very hyped for the upcoming samus returns and has made me a metroid fan.

    It is really impressive how much atmosphere this game mages to project, with a combination of great visuals and soundtrack, truly a masterpiece.    … Expand
  67. B-Bog
    Mar 10, 2023
    5
    A LOT of stupid trial-and-error where there's one special block somewhere that you have to shoot/bomb to progress and you have to figure out where it is without any real hints. So the game manages to be both restrictive in its linearity, because you always get told where to go and what to do by your bossy computer and you CONSTANTLY run into dead ends and locked hatches (the interconnectedA LOT of stupid trial-and-error where there's one special block somewhere that you have to shoot/bomb to progress and you have to figure out where it is without any real hints. So the game manages to be both restrictive in its linearity, because you always get told where to go and what to do by your bossy computer and you CONSTANTLY run into dead ends and locked hatches (the interconnected world design of other Metroid titles is totally absent); while also being very frustrating and confusing because you often don't know what to do to progress; which almost deserves an award of some kind.

    Enemies and bosses can be pretty stupid sometimes in that it can be nearly impossible to dodge their attacks, unless you have superhuman reflexes or you shoot enemies before they even appear on your screen. The boss arenas are also typically way too small, giving you no room to dodge and you always have approximately one nanosceond to shoot the exact right millimeter where the hitbox of the boss's weak point is, which is kinda BS given the very restrictive controls and aiming.

    To add onto all this, Samus' cringe monologuing and her dynamic with her insanely bossy computer (seriously, who programs an AI like this??) also sets up Other M...    … Expand
  68. Alejangrido40
    Jul 4, 2018
    10
    es uno de los mejores o si no el mejor juego de metroid de toda la saga ,es gran gran evolucion despues super metroid
  69. Alejangrido50
    Nov 28, 2020
    10
    este juego es junto a super metroid la ley y uno de los padres de el metroidvania.
    este juego tiene uno de los mejores villanos mejor pensados de la historia de juegos de ciencia y ficcion,metroid fusion puede transmitir susupenso,terror,gran soledad en todo el juego y una sensacion de saber que estas vulnerable y solo en todo momento memorables batallas para todo fan de esta saga de    este juego es junto a super metroid la ley y uno de los padres de el metroidvania.
    este juego tiene uno de los mejores villanos mejor pensados de la historia de juegos de ciencia y ficcion,metroid fusion puede transmitir susupenso,terror,gran soledad en todo el juego y una sensacion de saber que estas vulnerable y solo en todo momento memorables batallas para todo fan de esta saga de videojuegos, y una gran y muy buena recoleccion de items ,y uno de los mejores finales de metroid,el final te deja con tan buen sabor de boca que te entra una sensacion de querer saber de que le deparara a samus en un futuro, simplemente grandioso es un una palabra METROID FUSION.    … Expand
  70. Moony545
    Nov 7, 2018
    10
    Метроидвания-хоррор - так можно характеризовать жанр игры. И это отличный представитель своего жанра. Твёрдые 10 из 10
  71. iMustang
    Apr 25, 2019
    9
    Metroid Fusion definitely lived up to its reputation as a fantastic game. This game was the first of the 2D Metroids to have a large story presence with constant dialogue from Samus' inner thoughts, and a direct narrative from her computer AI partner Adam. This led me to immerse myself so much more in the story that was going on compared to the other games which was far from rejected. TheMetroid Fusion definitely lived up to its reputation as a fantastic game. This game was the first of the 2D Metroids to have a large story presence with constant dialogue from Samus' inner thoughts, and a direct narrative from her computer AI partner Adam. This led me to immerse myself so much more in the story that was going on compared to the other games which was far from rejected. The difficulty was also kicked up for this game quite a bit, I definitely died more in this game than I did in Zero Mission or Samus Returns, but that only served for me to improve and get better as a player. Between the really interesting story and the very solid gameplay, Metroid Fusion continues to make me happy I got into this franchise… Expand
  72. Onioncreature
    Jun 30, 2021
    9
    Another highly enjoyable entry in the Metroid series of games. Fusion is far more linear and story focused than the other main series entries, which I appreciated, as it lead to a number of engaging narrative moments. The addition of the X parasite as the main threat is great, and makes this title feel distinct from it's predecessors. Visuals and sound are top notch as is usual for theAnother highly enjoyable entry in the Metroid series of games. Fusion is far more linear and story focused than the other main series entries, which I appreciated, as it lead to a number of engaging narrative moments. The addition of the X parasite as the main threat is great, and makes this title feel distinct from it's predecessors. Visuals and sound are top notch as is usual for the series. The challenge level is somewhat unbalanced at times, the difficulty of bosses fluctuates at an unfortunately constant rate; for some reason the bosses in the middle of the game are by far the most demanding. Overall though, Fusion ends up being a highly worthwhile Metroid game that builds on the series and takes it in exciting new directions.… Expand
  73. tukumalu
    Jan 25, 2020
    10
    The first side-scrolling that installed a sense of horror in my playthrough as a child.
  74. Nekocotier
    Feb 18, 2020
    10
    Mon premier Metroid, et c'était l'une des plus grandes révélations dans ma vie. La découverte d'une des plus grande saga. L'opus 2D le plys opressant, les frissons face au SA-X, Nightmare et sans oublier Ridley avec ses cris. Et y en a encore pleins des choses à dire. Mais sa réputation n est plus à refaire également
  75. fanmadeendings
    Feb 4, 2022
    9
    Exciting story and incredible boss fights! It is a close second to Zero Mission for me, tied with Dread.
  76. spencerplewe
    Oct 11, 2022
    9
    Fascinating and well-designed, Fusion is a more accessible Metroid title with its narrative structure, but it still has the blisteringly hard bosses that make you earn your victory.
  77. Nintendoforlife
    Apr 19, 2020
    9
    My first thought playing this was that it was one of the best games I've ever played! it has an amazing story line, great game play, and some quite intense boss fights! overall, the game is a legend with only a few flaws, such as some parts being a bit too challenging for where you are at in the game, which force you to keep trying at that part till you get it, but other than that, IMy first thought playing this was that it was one of the best games I've ever played! it has an amazing story line, great game play, and some quite intense boss fights! overall, the game is a legend with only a few flaws, such as some parts being a bit too challenging for where you are at in the game, which force you to keep trying at that part till you get it, but other than that, I HIGHLY recommend this game! love it!… Expand
  78. LightDay
    May 22, 2020
    10
    The perfect experience of ambience on metroid.

    Definitely the best metroid of all, but only if you come with the idea of ​​enjoying the game and not of "Playing the same"
  79. NumiKoi
    Oct 18, 2021
    10
    Отличный платформер в сеттинге Космического Ретро сайфая
    Интересный и глубокий сюжет,а так же сиквел Super Metroid.
    Must play если ты любишь Метроидвании
  80. hector_bcn98
    Oct 31, 2022
    9
    Las nuevas características jugables, más survival horror que nunca. Podría haber durado un poquito más.
  81. ylnylmn
    Sep 3, 2021
    9
    I enjoyed playing it, it was as good as Super Metroid. They did a really good job with the story. I was able to connect better with Samus in this game. The parts I don't like.
    1_ The difficulty of the bosses. I died a lot and it made me tired, but I enjoyed it more. It could have been a little easier though.
    2_ A more linear map than Super Metroid. There are sections in parts and    I enjoyed playing it, it was as good as Super Metroid. They did a really good job with the story. I was able to connect better with Samus in this game. The parts I don't like.
    1_ The difficulty of the bosses. I died a lot and it made me tired, but I enjoyed it more. It could have been a little easier though.
    2_ A more linear map than Super Metroid. There are sections in parts and sometimes you can't go where you want. The previously open door is closed in gray, which limits free exploration.
    3_ Difficulty collecting the X parasite. Sometimes it runs too fast and I can't catch it.
    Sometimes it turns into a new enemy.
    4_ Some hidden paths are hard to find. Sometimes it can bother you a lot.
    But all in all, it's a fun game and a good story.    … Expand
  82. SeaSphynx
    Nov 5, 2021
    9
    What a phenomenal game! The utter power I felt as Samus once I collected all of the possible powers felt incredible to handle. What else can I even say? The controls, music, exploration, atmosphere are all just as good as they always are. A super addicting must-play that might be a bit linear but incredible nonetheless.
  83. DizavidHZ
    Mar 15, 2023
    5
    This is the Metroid that marked the end of the fun in the series, and the game trying instead to go for a high difficulty platformer more than a game of exploration. The Japanese symbol for difficulty *must* be the same one they use for "lazy programming reclassified as intentional". Samus' wall jump is abysmal, and her space jump is somehow even worse. The button for jumping andThis is the Metroid that marked the end of the fun in the series, and the game trying instead to go for a high difficulty platformer more than a game of exploration. The Japanese symbol for difficulty *must* be the same one they use for "lazy programming reclassified as intentional". Samus' wall jump is abysmal, and her space jump is somehow even worse. The button for jumping and shooting are in the exact opposite order they should be. There's a button to make her aim diagonally up but not down. The SA-X looks more like Samus from Super Metroid, almost identically, meanwhile the real Samus looks like an NES cartridge puked out a Samus shaped pile. The game is *decent*, but for me marks the wrong turn at Albuquerque for me; it eventually led to the remake for Samus Returns, which debuted quick time events as something you do to every enemy. They doubled down on this for Dread, and Fusion is squarely to blame. (What happened to y'all hating QTEs? That's all Returns and Dread are.) I'm writing this due to the rerelease on the Switch GBA emulator (let's call it what it is). They could absolutely allow you to rewrite button mapping (people who say it's harder than it looks are covering their own laziness; emulator creators showed just how easy customisable button mapping can be, ESPECIALLY on an emulator). This is just classic Nintendo: when they're good they're amazing, but when they're bad you feel the need to swab yourself for any unwanted used car salesman DNA.… Expand
  84. Oreun
    Apr 15, 2021
    10
    Even though it is a little bit more linear than other Metroid games, It is still a great game with great bosses, map and secrets. Must play.

    Aunque es un poco mas lineal que otros juegos de Metroid, sigue siendo un gran juego con muy buenos bosses, mapa y secretos. Debes jugarlo.
  85. JustinForgueims
    Jul 3, 2023
    7
    Good aesthetics, story and sound.
    Plenty of gadgets as usual in the franchise but without any innovation.

    The game is quite well balanced. Good difficulty curve with several hard but not frustrating fights.

    As any game of this franchise after a while it fells too much on a "find the hidden block" feature that I personally don't like a lot.
  86. datoneguy246
    May 14, 2021
    9
    The Metroid series does not disappoint! While this game may not be as well-done as Super Metroid, there is still so much polish and attention present here. The gameplay is fun and the story is well written. I would recommend it.
  87. LCSTLN
    Aug 9, 2021
    10
    This game is the best that I play in 2D, have a great story and provide an incredible gameplay with some stress sections but is perfect, is my favorite Metroid game I ever play.
  88. calvinbrine
    Aug 20, 2021
    9
    In no way is this the best Metroid game, but it is definitely a great one. It's take on exploration isn't very Metroid of it, but it still feels like it is even it if isn't, and the old backtrack formula comes back near the end of the game. The artificial environments are done really well, and that plus the more on-edge atmosphere that this game goes for, makes great immersion. The bossesIn no way is this the best Metroid game, but it is definitely a great one. It's take on exploration isn't very Metroid of it, but it still feels like it is even it if isn't, and the old backtrack formula comes back near the end of the game. The artificial environments are done really well, and that plus the more on-edge atmosphere that this game goes for, makes great immersion. The bosses become a little to frequent towards the end, but the general boss design in this game, may be the best in the series. This game's story is really well written and feels like Metroid, and it has an awesome difficulty spike that while may not be the only tough game in the series(echoes and SR), it's definitely the most famously difficult one, which is NOT a bad thing(and I'm not good at video games and I'm saying that). it loses points though because of to many bosses near the end and the firing in random directions adventure aspect of the game is done wrong on multiple occasions. I'd give it an 88 if this was a 100 scale, but it's not, so 9/10 it is.… Expand
  89. sourasparagus
    Sep 30, 2021
    9
    Shockingly good. Doesn't have quite the exploratory feel of Super Metroid, but you still get to draw outside the lines. Holds up to the best Metroidvanias even 20 years later.
  90. TheLinkgirl
    May 8, 2023
    8
    Horror is still used in Metroidvanias to great effect, but I think many games in the genre reduce their horror to specific areas: Hollow Knight, Ori WotW and even Metroid Dread do this. However, I think that Metroid Fusion is a bit of an exception, managing to make it feel like a threat could strike at any moment. The terrors that lay in wait within the game's main setting, the BSL, areHorror is still used in Metroidvanias to great effect, but I think many games in the genre reduce their horror to specific areas: Hollow Knight, Ori WotW and even Metroid Dread do this. However, I think that Metroid Fusion is a bit of an exception, managing to make it feel like a threat could strike at any moment. The terrors that lay in wait within the game's main setting, the BSL, are always magnified by their teases or appearances beforehand. You might be informed of a boss, only to reach its abode and find nothing but bones; a moment of relief, shattered suddenly by the realisation of its meaning.

    This isn't to say that Metroid Fusion is perfect. There are moments where the game expects the player to perform the classic Metroid manoeuvre of bombing each individual tile on the map until you find the path forward. In some regards it works well, as the game acts like you have accessed areas you shouldn't have, which works well for the narrative, but fails for the gameplay. If the route you expect the player to take is so well hidden that it feels like the player is performing multiple sequence breaks, then it might be a little bit too obscured for its own good. Despite this, I feel the core game makes up for the few shortcomings that are present.    … Expand
  91. wizardninja
    Oct 16, 2021
    10
    My favorite video game of all time. Bosses, atmosphere, tension--all absolutely phenomenal. And the story is incredibly intriguing.
  92. Pembroke_Watts
    Nov 22, 2022
    9
    One of the best games in the franchise. The game focuses more on the narrative, at the expense of being more linear. However, don't let that mislead you, the game still has many moments where you can explore and find the way to the next objective by yourself.
  93. randoompuff
    Oct 27, 2021
    2
    this is easily the worst mainline metroid game. the bosses are horrible if u didnt get a ton of energy tanks. the game is very linear its not even a metroidvania tbh but even tho its linear you still get lost because to progress you have to shoot random tiles that look the exact same to everything else. the dialogue is just annoying. and i see people saying the game has a sense to fearthis is easily the worst mainline metroid game. the bosses are horrible if u didnt get a ton of energy tanks. the game is very linear its not even a metroidvania tbh but even tho its linear you still get lost because to progress you have to shoot random tiles that look the exact same to everything else. the dialogue is just annoying. and i see people saying the game has a sense to fear which is hilarious to me because the sa-x encounters are scripted as hell. this game does litteraly nothing right theres no point to play it.… Expand
  94. Volphied
    Jan 31, 2022
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Metroid Fusion fue el primer juego en un cartucho de GBA con el que pasé terror la primera vez que lo jugué. La atmosfera opresiva, la ambientación y la narración del mismo, da a pie a una sensación de indefensión a lo largo del título. Tiene uno de los enemigos más memorables de la saga y el que más pesadillas nos habrá dado algún que otro fan, con una presentación el cual rompe la cuarta pared para mirarnos al jugador fijamente y hacernos saber que estamos solos ante el peligro que ella significa.
    La movilidad en este título es genial, es el primer juego en el que Samus sabe engancharse a cornisas y es algo que es muy útil para títulos así. Por ponerle una pega, no puedes ejecutar saltos en una misma pared de continuo; algo que en Zero Mission sí puedes. La banda sonora de este juego es una delicia auditiva, y muchas pistas de su OST apoyan la opresión que quieren transmitirte a lo largo de la historia.
    El punto más negativo que tiene Metroid Fusion es su linealidad y su ausencia de libertad a la hora de explorar. A falta de este libre albedrío que podemos tener en otros títulos, el juego se centra en su narrativa y en contarnos una historia, que es algo que ningún Metroid había hecho hasta la fecha, pudiendo explorar los pensamientos de Samus y saber más sobre la federación galáctica y lo que está pasando. Así que, a cambio de una jugabilidad lineal, tenemos una historia más rica que en otros pues esta se apoya en los diálogos y pensamientos de nuestra protagonista a comparación de otros títulos que se basan solamente en la narrativa visual.    … Expand
  95. Wertypite
    Feb 23, 2022
    10
    Game that I hated at once, but latter I'm fall in love. Tough bosses and spooky atmosphere. One of the best games ever made for sure.
  96. GDsReviews
    Jun 4, 2022
    4
    An incredible, creepy, and excellent game destroyed by an absolutely brutal final boss fight sequence.
  97. RAMB
    Jan 5, 2023
    10
    Metroid Fusion is a great game just wish it wasn't so linear but still its a great game that gets a 10
  98. Yojimbo2015
    Jul 3, 2023
    10
    Follow up to the best 16 bit console game of all time, Metroid finds its true home on the GBA. A perfect blend of shooting, platforming and adventure that the overly convoluted 3D reinventions never quite recaptured.
  99. Axce
    Feb 12, 2023
    10
    One of the Best 2D Metroidvania game ever. It’s also for me the best Metroid game to play for the first time. Absolutely wonderful graphics, beautiful soundtracks, best difficulty and the best Bosses in the entire Franchise.
  100. Jerg4n
    Apr 7, 2023
    10
    Fusion is essentially a 2d horror game while being a pretty linear game about exploration. Now that doesn't sound like it should work, but goddamn does it work well. The Metroid team decided to make this game something different and new from all the previous titles while retaining all the good parts the series is known for. Terrifying, difficult and exhilarating.
prev
Page:

Awards & Rankings

3
#3 Best Game Boy Advance Game of 2002
2
#2 Most Discussed Game Boy Advance Game of 2002
1
#1 Most Shared Game Boy Advance Game of 2002

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
92

Universal acclaim - based on 44 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 43 out of 44
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 44
  3. Negative: 0 out of 44
  1. Total Video Games
    90
    Perhaps the only niggle that you can level at Metroid Fusion, is that the focus on strong story telling reduces the exploration aspect, an area that the Metroid series is virtually unrivalled in.
    Read full review
  2. GMR Magazine
    90
    While the gameplay is faster, and more responsive than ever before, MF manages to feel even more claustophobic than in the past. That's a good thing. [Feb 2003, p.75]
  3. Eurogamer
    90
    My favourite 2D Metroid yet... [and] the best platform adventure the GBA has.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »