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8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 2790 Ratings

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  1. Oct 17, 2021
    10
    Juegazo, el mejor Metroid 2D sin duda. Grandes Mercury Steam. Jugabilidad perfecta, sensacional la tensión de los EMMI, combates frenéticos contra jefes y un inmenso mapa por explorar con un gran arsenal de poderes. Larga vida a Samus!!
  2. Oct 17, 2021
    9
    Metroid dread is one of my favorite games of the year. It has extremely tight controls and addicting gameplay. The EMMI robot chases make for strategic movement around the large maps, but i got slightly annoyed of them by the time I reached Dairon. There are also some cool new gadgets that Samus has in her arsenal to make the game feel fresh. My main complaint about this game is it is aMetroid dread is one of my favorite games of the year. It has extremely tight controls and addicting gameplay. The EMMI robot chases make for strategic movement around the large maps, but i got slightly annoyed of them by the time I reached Dairon. There are also some cool new gadgets that Samus has in her arsenal to make the game feel fresh. My main complaint about this game is it is a little bit short, at 6 hours to complete for me personally, but I am aware that the 2D Metroid games were never very long to begin with. Hard mode can extend your experience if you are interested in dying hundreds of times. The game is already fairly difficult to begin with, and hard mode takes it a little over the top for the average player. Overall, this game makes for a fun experience, and I can recommend it with confidence. Expand
  3. Oct 17, 2021
    10
    Best Metroid game, I ever played. Is a lot better than many of 3D games. :)
  4. Oct 15, 2021
    5
    I liked the game very much, but the emmi passages are just so so frustrating
  5. Oct 17, 2021
    10
    I'm surprised to say it but wow... this is the best metroid game... they actually did it.

    The boss fights are phenomenal, the areas are large, varied and filled with secrets to discover, the emmi sections are tense and a little different depending on which emmi you're facing. The ending is also straight up badass. Game of the year 2021... couldn't recommend it enough.
  6. Oct 17, 2021
    9
    Metroid Dread might be my favorite Metroid game.
    It provides the best feeling controls for Samus in the entire series, a surprisingly varied arsenal of classic items and new useful abilities, gorgeous looking environnments and distinct enemy designs, an extremely detailed map that can be overwhelming at first but ends up being very useful, a sense of mistery and surprise that pays respect
    Metroid Dread might be my favorite Metroid game.
    It provides the best feeling controls for Samus in the entire series, a surprisingly varied arsenal of classic items and new useful abilities, gorgeous looking environnments and distinct enemy designs, an extremely detailed map that can be overwhelming at first but ends up being very useful, a sense of mistery and surprise that pays respect to the legacy of this series and just a level of care in the game design that you don't see in every game.
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  7. Oct 17, 2021
    10
    I´ve been waiting 19 years for this and it didn´t dissapoint. What a marvelous game.
  8. Oct 17, 2021
    9
    Game super fun when running around figuring out puzzles and what not. Reason why it’s not 10 is THE BOSSES HOLY CRAP!! It get good until bosses, then the game has a big spike in difficulty, especially the final boss. Also I think the damage is a little high on some enemy’s. Overall 9.2, would highly recommend.
  9. Oct 17, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. So far Metroid Dread is my favorite game this year and probably in my top 10 (maybe even top 5) favorite games at the moment. The movement is impeccable, the art style is gorgeous and the sense of progression really great. This is my first Metroid game and I have to say, I am enjoying it so much. The game is a bit difficult for a newcomer to the series but I getting the hang of it. Right now I am hooked and I can't wait to play more. I love the E.M.M.I. rooms and encounters. It works really well in this game. I have just beat the Chozo Warrior robot (the third boss) so I will update my review depending on what my thoughts are at the end of the game.

    Overall 10/10 (so far)
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  10. Oct 17, 2021
    10
    Metroid Dread is probably one of the best Switch game released, and one of the best Metroid game after Prime and Super Metroid. Mercury Steam finally has perfected their own formula, started back with Samus Returns, and created a challenging game that will make you glued to your Switch. What more can I say? Just buy it.
  11. Oct 17, 2021
    9
    As a metroid veteran, I think this game is excellent. It's still faithful to the serie but adds nice improvements and quality of life features. Samus is super agile and the action-part of the game is great. The difficulty adds tension and encourages the player to stay aware, it's challenging and rewarding. The story is great too and the EMMIs are a good thing. Plus, the formula has someAs a metroid veteran, I think this game is excellent. It's still faithful to the serie but adds nice improvements and quality of life features. Samus is super agile and the action-part of the game is great. The difficulty adds tension and encourages the player to stay aware, it's challenging and rewarding. The story is great too and the EMMIs are a good thing. Plus, the formula has some twists, but I won't spoil here. See you next mission! Expand
  12. Oct 17, 2021
    9
    Es un maravilloso regreso a la esencia de lo que es un Metroid en 2D, el diseño de niveles y entornos de los mismos están muy bien ambientados y con unos fondos que te invitan a adentrarte en ese mundo, la movilidad y animaciones tanto de Samus como de sus enemigos es exquisita, cuenta con una gran variedad de enemigos y con algunos jefes te verás obligado a hacer uso de todo tu arsenal yEs un maravilloso regreso a la esencia de lo que es un Metroid en 2D, el diseño de niveles y entornos de los mismos están muy bien ambientados y con unos fondos que te invitan a adentrarte en ese mundo, la movilidad y animaciones tanto de Samus como de sus enemigos es exquisita, cuenta con una gran variedad de enemigos y con algunos jefes te verás obligado a hacer uso de todo tu arsenal y movimientos disponibles, dicho arsenal es muy amplio y fácil de usar. Los únicos puntos flojos que encontré; fue en su apartado sonoro que; siendo apropiado, es poco memorable y termina siendo rescatado por uno que otro tema de entregas anteriores, también hicieron falta más opciones de configuración. Expand
  13. Oct 17, 2021
    10
    I already beat it twice and this is my first time playing a metroid game, for me personally level design is soo good. there is element of discovering where u should go next. the elephant in the room is the boss fight, its challenging but still fair, you should use every arsenal you’ve got in order to beat them. Samus is fast fluid and so good to play. The game is fast pace and tight, thisI already beat it twice and this is my first time playing a metroid game, for me personally level design is soo good. there is element of discovering where u should go next. the elephant in the room is the boss fight, its challenging but still fair, you should use every arsenal you’ve got in order to beat them. Samus is fast fluid and so good to play. The game is fast pace and tight, this is one of the best experience this year’s has been delivered, give it a chance to play it. Bravo for the team that nailed metroid Expand
  14. Oct 17, 2021
    10
    Metroid Dread is definitely my Game of The Year so far.
    It has tight and responsive controls.
    The image quality is great (for a Switch game) and the enviroments are detailed. Frame rate was solid 60 for most of the time but I got some random drops in some rooms. I played on the launch Switch btw. The atmosphere is really strong and devs are using backgrounds to tell a story. The main story
    Metroid Dread is definitely my Game of The Year so far.
    It has tight and responsive controls.
    The image quality is great (for a Switch game) and the enviroments are detailed. Frame rate was solid 60 for most of the time but I got some random drops in some rooms. I played on the launch Switch btw. The atmosphere is really strong and devs are using backgrounds to tell a story. The main story is also the most interesting I have seen in a 2D Metroid.
    The sound design is also REALLY good. I advice you to use either headphones or surround sound system when playing. OST isn't as memorable as in other games in the series but it still reinforces the atmosphere.

    Overall I the game was just joy to play from start to finish. I don't have that much time for gaming these days so I'll usually complete a game once and then move to the next game. But this time around second playthrough may be needed. Dread is so freaking good!
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  15. Oct 17, 2021
    6
    This is the worst 2d Metroid.
    I have played all of them. QTE was obnoxious.
    Boss fights were too frequent and too boring.
    Being hunted got old fast, it was done better in Fusion. The game is great when it plays like older metroids. I wouldn't recommend it to Metroid fans. I would recommend it to fans of the 3ds castlevania game.
  16. Oct 17, 2021
    10
    What a great game!
    What a great game!
    What a great game!
    What a great game!
  17. Oct 17, 2021
    0
    I cannot understand the positive reviews. I have to counteract with my 0 rating. This game is not worth playing. It's just not fair in many places. The play with the E.M.M.I. and other enemies / bosses is just a trial and error and ends in unfair Game Over screens. Especially at zone Ferenia. You have to pass the E.M.M.I. zone. The purple one can hear and see you from anywhere throughI cannot understand the positive reviews. I have to counteract with my 0 rating. This game is not worth playing. It's just not fair in many places. The play with the E.M.M.I. and other enemies / bosses is just a trial and error and ends in unfair Game Over screens. Especially at zone Ferenia. You have to pass the E.M.M.I. zone. The purple one can hear and see you from anywhere through walls. Then beat an electric beetle and then two Chozo robot soldiers at once. Harder than Dark Souls. There is no station to refill your life. You have to cross rooms with OP enemies and have no chance to reach the 2-Chozo-room with full life. ... I have now quit the game and removed it. What's wrong with you guys? The rest of the game isn't bad. But come on, these things described here are not worth a rating above 7. Expand
  18. Oct 17, 2021
    10
    Metroid dread has almost been a religious experience for me. The wait for a continuation of this series has been long but man this game was so good! By al means nothing is perfect, are there other directions i would have wanted the developers to take? Sure, the map isnt as clean as in previous games so you have to take a bit longer watching it. The emmis could have been handled a litleMetroid dread has almost been a religious experience for me. The wait for a continuation of this series has been long but man this game was so good! By al means nothing is perfect, are there other directions i would have wanted the developers to take? Sure, the map isnt as clean as in previous games so you have to take a bit longer watching it. The emmis could have been handled a litle diffrent but If it would be all I wanted I wouldnt have been suprised either or kept in suspence, Amazing boss fights, one day I hope im good enought to preform the amazing secret one pounch takedown as well. The game is a welcomed return to form without this anoying handholding we are so used to today. Its so satisfying to solve these thing yourself. An absolute epic and a true metroid game. My hope is we wont have to wait as long for the next installment. Now we wait for Metroid Prime 4 and Metroid 6! Expand
  19. Oct 17, 2021
    10
    this is the best metroid i played because? simple its controls its graphics and the suspense that each emmi brings you only the best
  20. Oct 16, 2021
    9
    The overall experience was so delightful. Although, I have never played a whole Metroid or any 2D game, I love the mechanics and the game play! Definitely a new fan of Metroid here!
  21. Oct 16, 2021
    10
    Managed to dethrone Super as the best 2D Metroid game for me. I think the only thing Super has over dread in my opinion is memorable music.
    The flow of movement. The Sequence Breaking, and just being able to have fun with the Shine Spark.
    I find the melee counter a vast improvement over Samus Returns because this time not every enemy can be countered. your abilities n can handle a greater
    Managed to dethrone Super as the best 2D Metroid game for me. I think the only thing Super has over dread in my opinion is memorable music.
    The flow of movement. The Sequence Breaking, and just being able to have fun with the Shine Spark.

    I find the melee counter a vast improvement over Samus Returns because this time not every enemy can be countered. your abilities n can handle a greater range of foes earlier on so that stopping/waiting/countering is by no means the most efficient tactic for everything like the previous title. Heck for a number of the enemies they took out the waiting part and that was a hug plus in and of itself.

    Bosses felt like they had a fair learning curve, seeming difficult at first but every boss is animated so that each attack has a distinctive tell that lets you know where and when to move, attack, or counter. The only thing I,'d want to add to this game is a Prime Style logbook to give you more concrete lore on the world but that's just me and has no bearing on the gameplay.

    I was afraid this game would fail because of the mixed opinions of Samus Returns and the clear reuse of mechanics and assets but this title FAR exceeded my expectations.
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  22. Oct 16, 2021
    4
    Dreadful Metroid Game Over

    First time I've played Super Metroid was in 2007 after a recommendation from one of my clients. At that point I've been gaming for nearly 20 years. Fell in love with the game and played it again immediately after completing it. Since then I've played them all(including the fan game)and some of them more than once. And I've got to say I am more disappointed
    Dreadful Metroid Game Over

    First time I've played Super Metroid was in 2007 after a recommendation from one of my clients. At that point I've been gaming for nearly 20 years. Fell in love with the game and played it again immediately after completing it. Since then I've played them all(including the fan game)and some of them more than once. And I've got to say I am more disappointed with this one then I was with OtherM. With OM I really disliked the story and how they've approached it, but gameplay wise it was a pretty good game - maps were pretty good and logically connected, which is a trope of this series, music was decent, combat fine, thought exploration suffered somewhat due to move to that style of 3d movement.Was good game.

    Obviously I was super exited to play Dread. I thought that Samus Returns was pretty good, even thought I wasn't super convinced to counter attack and free aim in that one, the team behind it showed premise. How I was wrong! Playing dread made me realise that what was good about the M2 remake,was the original aspects of the design brought in to much improved visuals and controls, not new additions.Those additions are pushed even more to front in Dread.

    In Dread I'm nearly the end, and I just stopped and can't force myself to play it any more. Its level layouts are abysmal. It becomes more and more disjointed the further you get. With old games there was some logic to them but here they feel very random and it's very easy to confuse them. They lack character and vibe with exception of couple of areas,which still are lacking but not as much.Map is clareted and not clear.

    Lack of tunes is one of the reasons.In Metroid it used to be a mixture of funky electronic and quazi-film music.All of the new music is just bland and boring, lack tunes and actually I hate it.

    When it comes to progression it is also really bad.After the initial linear introduction to the game, game opens up the area a little bit, but quickly goes back to completely linear progression.Once I've realised that it doesn't matter if I want to go somewhere I've just got power up for, or just stack up on missiles or tanks I've seen on the way and have power to get, I stopped even thinking about the layout and was just following the path like a robot, completely detached, because the game gives you pretty much only one path to follow.In that regard it is only tiny bit more open then Fusion.

    Other aspects of the design also suck.Emi killer robots are boring, and they don't fit visually in world of the game. They are just annoying. I did quickly learned how to avoid them, however that whole part of the game could be cut out and game would be better off without it. It really feels like it was pushed on the devs by the PR Marketing overlords(to have something new in Metroid that could be talked about).But if PR Marketing overlords would be any good at game dev, they wouldn't be working PR Salesman, wouldn't they?This took over all entertainment and it is killing it and has to end.

    Controls are smooth, but again free aim is iffy, and overall the amount of buttons you got to use simultaneously to do an action is ridiculous. Using 2 buttons and an analog stick is enough complexity for normal human being, but here often you got to hold 2 triggers, use two sticks and press a button at the same time making it a chore for humans.Human octopuses will do fine thought. And yet, to they aren't responsive all the time, sometimes triggering a different move.With free aim you actually hit half of the time.

    Bosses suppose to be difficult, and they are, but not in any good way.Metroid games didn't really had very good bosses for the most part, outside of their visual appeal and inventiveness, they were often annoying more than anything. But they weren't killing you with couple of hits, and you could learn their patterns more easily. Here they are overdone, requiring you to not only be a human octopus but also a formula 1 driver.Bosses are also annoying and reused to the point of pain.

    As for the story, I'm not interested in stories in games in general. However, I didn't like the X parasite in Fusion and I don't like it here. Game is called Metroid,not X.Other aspects of the story aren't even worth mentioning.

    Graphically it's ok. I've increased contrast and saturation of my tv and it looks ok.

    Wrapping this up-Metroid Dread is a frankenstein of many concepts and ideas, put together in to a blender, resulting in very bland game that has no identity and no flare. It actually looks and plays much like Strider remake(which I really liked and was a much better game); it has bosses and some enemies insta killing you like Dark Souls, and overall game is copying its aspects a lot.But I don't like Dark Souls. I wanted to play Metroid. But instead I've got a mental hospital patient, made by teens with (probably) decent budget who do not understand that Metroid was about forward momentum, exploration and atmospher.
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  23. Oct 16, 2021
    10
    Metriod Dread definitely brought new and innovative gameplay to the genre and I found the story overall very pleasing. Metriod Dread is game I will have to play multiple times due to its addictive gameplay.
  24. Oct 16, 2021
    6
    Metroid Dread is certainly an enjoyable game, however only the first half. The second half becomes a repetitious bore and an absolute slog of a game.

    I've played most of the 2D Metroids including Super Metroid (played 3+ times), Metroid Fusion and also gave Samus Returns a go. The Spanish studio that made Samus Returns co-developed Metroid Dread and brought a lot of the bad aspects of
    Metroid Dread is certainly an enjoyable game, however only the first half. The second half becomes a repetitious bore and an absolute slog of a game.

    I've played most of the 2D Metroids including Super Metroid (played 3+ times), Metroid Fusion and also gave Samus Returns a go. The Spanish studio that made Samus Returns co-developed Metroid Dread and brought a lot of the bad aspects of Samus Returns. Samus Returns had too many parry attacks and repeat bosses, yep you heard right, the same bosses over and over again with minor tweaks.

    Metroid Dread came out with positive reviews so I decided to try it out with an expected game length of 10 hours.

    Pros:
    * cool blend of 2D and 3D
    * EMMIs towards the beginning of the game are kinda cool
    * some good cut-scenes
    * some of the bosses were fun

    Cons:
    * EMMIs became more of a gimmick towards mid-game and didn't add much value to the game
    * the power upgrades are all over the place and you barely have a few moments to use it before you get another power upgrade
    * this game is actually very linear in that it provides teleportation points every where
    * some parts of this game have awful level design and you can barely tell the cue points, particularly when you're on a small screen
    * mini-bosses are repeated over and over again and it's OK to be seen twice but not 3 or 4 times
    * counters in boss fights are awful if you miss the counter you have to do some repetitious moves for a few minutes before the counter becomes available again, counters seem more appropriate in a Playstation button-smash game
    * some of the cut-scene close-ups has PS1-level graphics
    * some noticeable frame-rate drops, particularly in boss battles

    Overall it's great to have another 2D Metroid game however a lot of the bad aspects of Samus Returns are in Metroid Dread, there are noticeable glitches in the graphics and bad level design and repetitious bosses. It would have been better if Nintendo just produced it by themselves.
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  25. Oct 16, 2021
    4
    The game runs smooth, looks good and is quite satisfying to play. It encourages to explore and proceed deeper into the world in order to find its collectibles and power ups. This has been done before in all Metroid games so there was nothing new in that case. Me waiting for a Metroid game for 4 years and then finishing the game in like 9 hours is quite disappointing. For a NintendoThe game runs smooth, looks good and is quite satisfying to play. It encourages to explore and proceed deeper into the world in order to find its collectibles and power ups. This has been done before in all Metroid games so there was nothing new in that case. Me waiting for a Metroid game for 4 years and then finishing the game in like 9 hours is quite disappointing. For a Nintendo franchise and for such a big game studio I was expecting 40-50 hours of playtime. I loved playing hollow knight so my expectations ware somewhere there but unfortunately the game ended before I got even excited. All in all good game, who ever likes Metroid games will feel like home but for the price and length of the game…. Not worth it. Expand
  26. Oct 16, 2021
    0
    The controls suck so bad. And the stupid areas where you are chased and then killed are just stupid. What a damn waist of $60. I’m so pissed.
  27. Oct 16, 2021
    10
    Best Metroid game in since Super Metroid. Difficulty is a little on the high side but the ability to restart outside of the room you died makes this manageable. Similar counter system from Return of Samus but doesn’t rely on it. Music is on the simple side but adds to the mood of the game and helps to hear the E.M.M.I’s. Graphics are beautiful but set the contrast to dark. The storyBest Metroid game in since Super Metroid. Difficulty is a little on the high side but the ability to restart outside of the room you died makes this manageable. Similar counter system from Return of Samus but doesn’t rely on it. Music is on the simple side but adds to the mood of the game and helps to hear the E.M.M.I’s. Graphics are beautiful but set the contrast to dark. The story that unfolds is where the game really shines. It is simple story telling but ties the series together in a nice way. This is game is addicting once you get into it, so watch out. Expand
  28. Oct 16, 2021
    3
    Fun game until you get to an e.m.m.i, boss, or have to counter. Metroid peaked with super Metroid and has gone down the **** with samus returns and Metroid dread. Wet fart of an way to end the series.
  29. Oct 16, 2021
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Should be a good time for newcomers and fans alike. Hard to say if its worth a $60 price point with its occasional graphic hiccups and its 1 screen, NES-esq "Thanks for Playing!" ending. Expand
  30. Oct 16, 2021
    10
    The People crying about this game are just not good gamers they are casual candy crush players who cannot appreciate what this game is doing. They are just not versed enough in Metroid games to understand the brilliance that this game is.

    This game does not hold your hand, you have to USE your BRAIN. It allows you to feel the reward of learning the facts and mechanics and feeling
    The People crying about this game are just not good gamers they are casual candy crush players who cannot appreciate what this game is doing. They are just not versed enough in Metroid games to understand the brilliance that this game is.

    This game does not hold your hand, you have to USE your BRAIN.

    It allows you to feel the reward of learning the facts and mechanics and feeling like you are becoming a better player. It nails the awesome feel of the Metroid games and you have explore to figure out where to go. Once you realize that you have to shoot walls to reveal hidden paths it becomes much more straight forward on where to go. There are a few tough areas to figure out, but that is the fun.

    Game is absolutely amazing, hands down the best game since Metroid Prime series. Super Metroid is the only other game that competes with this title.

    if you are a cry baby who needs their hands held you wont like this game, but if you enjoy being challenged and understand what a Metroid game IS. You will love this game and appreciate what the developers were doing.

    I applaud the developers for having the courage to produce a game as finely crafted as this, with the difficulty. Crybabies can cry and gamers can game. Peace out.
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  31. Oct 16, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Me encantó el juego y eso que aún no lo termino y eso que los juegos en 2d no son mis favoritos pero este me encantó y le doy un 10 Expand
  32. Oct 16, 2021
    9
    Metriod dread is a great game,I feel like the hate it's geting about being to short or to hard isn't quite fair I have played them all.Not one has taken me more than 6 to 7 hours. Also the game was never ment for casual players so I'm glad they stuck to there guns on difficulty,and not joined the participation trophy gaming trend.
  33. Oct 16, 2021
    2
    Would have been an amazing game if it didnt use a lazy mechanic that added nothing but frustration. The E.M.M.I. destroys what makes a metroidvania game great, exploration. Instead of being able to focus on whats best about this series you get a crappy mechanic that one shots you and adds nothing of value. It feels like the developers completely missed the mark on what Metroid is about.
  34. Oct 16, 2021
    10
    Incredible world design. Perfect atmosphere. Tight controls/gameplay. Perfect story for series fan's. This is how you do a series justice. The switch exclusive of the decade.
  35. Oct 16, 2021
    10
    Amazing game! Flawless game in my book. Was a fun challenge from start to finish. It took me ~10 hours to finish.
  36. Oct 16, 2021
    10
    The best Metroid experience that's been released since Super Metroid. The controls and abilities have been polished incredibly well. Bosses are challenging and fun, and this is the first Metroid game to integrate a compelling story without it ever slowing down gameplay. Absolutely worth playing if you like Metroid games, as this is the best one that's come out in over 25 years.
  37. Oct 16, 2021
    10
    Game of the Year! I've not played a metroid game before (love hollow knight and ori) but this comes out swinging! Fantastic game! Amazing visuals, tight controls, interesting areas with exploration, puzzles and bosses. Never been so excited to get equipment upgrades in my life. Wow! 10/10 LOVE IT
  38. Oct 16, 2021
    9
    Increíble el trabajo de diseño que han realizado desde Mercury Steam. Un mimo y un cariño gigante en cada apartado del juego, se respira el amor a la saga.
    La Samus más ágil que recuerdo viene a escribir con letras de oro el final de la historia 2D con esta quinta entrega. En mi humilde opinión le daría el bronce en el podio de este universo junto a Super Metroid (Oro) y Metroid Prime
    Increíble el trabajo de diseño que han realizado desde Mercury Steam. Un mimo y un cariño gigante en cada apartado del juego, se respira el amor a la saga.
    La Samus más ágil que recuerdo viene a escribir con letras de oro el final de la historia 2D con esta quinta entrega. En mi humilde opinión le daría el bronce en el podio de este universo junto a Super Metroid (Oro) y Metroid Prime (Plata).
    Uno de los juegos de este año 2021.
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  39. Oct 16, 2021
    6
    I suspect once the honeymoon period wears off people will begin to properly compare Metroid Dread to other MetroidVania games that have come out and realize that Dread is a gimmicky, mediocre entry in the genre. A 7 out of 10 game, at best.

    I rate it lower than that for the fiddly controls (three buttons and the analog stick to aim-fire missles!), an overabundance of bosses and
    I suspect once the honeymoon period wears off people will begin to properly compare Metroid Dread to other MetroidVania games that have come out and realize that Dread is a gimmicky, mediocre entry in the genre. A 7 out of 10 game, at best.

    I rate it lower than that for the fiddly controls (three buttons and the analog stick to aim-fire missles!), an overabundance of bosses and mini-bosses, QTE styled combat sequences overusing the melee counter, unavoidable one-hit-kill enemies with cheap god-mode abilities (EMMI), the lack of music, and the game's short length (10-12 hours for 100% completion). Graphically it's decent, but nothing to write home about. The movement is nice and fluid but there are noticeable periods of frame drops and blurry textures when playing docked on a 1080p or above display.

    6/10 for me.

    It's been 19 years since the last, new, 2D Metroid game was released on a Nintendo platform and over that time frame there has been a literal pile of MetroidVania styled games that are leaps and bounds better than Dread. Most, if not all, of them are readily available on multiple platforms, and most are cheaper with more content.
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  40. Oct 16, 2021
    10
    My favourite Metroidvania so far.

    The gameplay is phenomenal. Even right when it comes down to Samus Aran's base kit, the movement feels amazing and is very responsive. This is combined with the excellent animations which makes everything you do feel dynamic and fluid. On top of that, all of the abilities that you unlock all lead to a great powerful feeling of progression and all her
    My favourite Metroidvania so far.

    The gameplay is phenomenal. Even right when it comes down to Samus Aran's base kit, the movement feels amazing and is very responsive. This is combined with the excellent animations which makes everything you do feel dynamic and fluid. On top of that, all of the abilities that you unlock all lead to a great powerful feeling of progression and all her abilities can be used on the press of a button swiftly.

    The story is good. Metroid is not known for its stories told within game, and Metroid Dread does not stray from this much. The gameplay and the environment are far more important to the game, however its story is far from disappointing and has given a boatload of information for the lore that the community has been wanting for decades. It definitely scratches the itch I've been wanting for Metroid lore without ruining any level of mystery. That said this is not a game for you if you only care about the lore or story, as it is not focussing on that.

    The graphics are very good. I was surprised by how good they were; I recall during the initial trailers for Metroid Dread I was concerned that the graphics looked a little crusty, but when actually playing it I was amazed by how gorgeous the environments were. There are some effects here and there which do look a little outdated simply due to being on the Switch, but overall the game still looks astounding. It's hard to believe this game runs so consistently on the basic Switch model.

    The EMMI encounters are tense without making you panic and sufficiently hit that titular feeling of 'dread', but every time I died in the entire game I always felt it was fair. This game is one of the most difficult Metroid games to have come out, but every time I took damage or was outright killed I always knew it was my fault and knew how to improve. Additionally the checkpointing system and savepoints are very generous so it is rare that you will ever lose progress on death. That said, this isn't the hardest Metroidvania by any stretch of the imagination - every boss I encountered I was able to defeat within 10 tries.

    The weakest aspect of this game, to me, is the soundtrack. It is not bad, hence I am still giving this game a commending score of 10/10 as I believe this is a modern masterpiece. However, it focuses heavily on just being atmospheric rather than being melodic. This is not a negative thing, it is just weak.

    I have played many Metroidvanias. One of my favourite games of all time is Symphony of the Night. Even so, it is very rare for me to find simply jumping about and doing basic traversal fun. But in Metroid Dread, every single action I was doing felt fluid, responsive, and just fun. The Metroidvania genre as a whole more or less uses backtracking as a foundation, and Metroid Dread has, for me, removed the annoyance that sometimes comes with backtracking entirely, simply due to how fun the gameplay is. It's hard to overstate that and it's not something I expected going into the game. Obviously everyone will respond to the gameplay changes differently - veteran Metroid players will especially need to get used to the way they changed walljumping - but for me I find it hard to think of many ways this game could be improved to be a more enjoyable experience, besides giving us more. And if that's not a sign of a great game, I don't know what is.

    One last thing to add, however. Though I think this is a masterpiece, I would *not* recommend this to absolutely everyone. It is an ideal Metroidvania, however it is still a Metroidvania. It therefore requires precise jumping, aiming, and will involve a lot of cryptic secrets and backtracking. It is common to be lost and not know what to do, and it is common to have to go over the same areas over and over again. This is not a bad thing for me, but it's worth considering this is still a Metroidvania and so is not a game as universally recommendable as, for example, Mario Oddyssey. Still, it is the best Metroid so far in my opinion, so I would recommend anyone to try it regardless.
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  41. Oct 16, 2021
    10
    I waited 19yrs for another Metroid. With the release of Dread I have had an absolutely blast! It scratchy at itch. It keeps me connected. And brings back the joys of Fusion and Super that I remember as a child. The difficulty is perfect. It doesn’t hold Your hand but teaches you along the way to deal each challenge through trial and error. My only gripe is the soundtrack, Super MetroidI waited 19yrs for another Metroid. With the release of Dread I have had an absolutely blast! It scratchy at itch. It keeps me connected. And brings back the joys of Fusion and Super that I remember as a child. The difficulty is perfect. It doesn’t hold Your hand but teaches you along the way to deal each challenge through trial and error. My only gripe is the soundtrack, Super Metroid has the superior soundtrack and keeps it #1. Although Dread is quite closing to that! Thank you Nintendo I’m so happy SAMUS is back! Expand
  42. Oct 16, 2021
    10
    My first Metroid game and after finishing it one of my favorites if not my favorite Switch game. This is a must-have and a pure joy to play from the beginning to the end.
  43. Oct 16, 2021
    9
    No puedo considerarme un fan de toda la vida de metroid pues solo he jugado el titulo para la snes, aun así super metroid esta dentro de mi top 10 de juegos. Dudé bastante si conseguir el titulo pues los metroidvanias indies de los últimos tiempos que si bien son juegos excepcionales, suelo abrumarme bastante por su dificultad y los diseños laberínticos, dichas sensaciones las percibíNo puedo considerarme un fan de toda la vida de metroid pues solo he jugado el titulo para la snes, aun así super metroid esta dentro de mi top 10 de juegos. Dudé bastante si conseguir el titulo pues los metroidvanias indies de los últimos tiempos que si bien son juegos excepcionales, suelo abrumarme bastante por su dificultad y los diseños laberínticos, dichas sensaciones las percibí desde el trailer de metroid dread aunado a la persecución constante de los E.M.M.I.

    Pensé que no sería un juego para mi pero no pude más con las ganas de probarlo y dicha sensación abrumadora se transformó en pura satisfacción. La satisfacción de perderte, de explorar, de encontrar upgrades y perderte aun mas para seguir encontrando tesoros, el nivel de dificultad me preocupaba mucho y aunque es bastante retador no considero que sea un aspecto que te haga dejar de lado el juego sino al contrario, una vez que metroid te atrapa se puede entender por qué es un titulo que hacía falta para esta franquicia.
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  44. Oct 16, 2021
    10
    An incredible new entry in the Metroid franchise. The game is dripping with atmosphere, and the solid 10 to 14 hours it takes to complete are well paced and satisfying to play. The game can be challenging but it’s not hard for the sake of being hard, and most enemies and bosses have very clear attack patterns that can be exploited. The E.M.M.I were my biggest worry but they ended up beingAn incredible new entry in the Metroid franchise. The game is dripping with atmosphere, and the solid 10 to 14 hours it takes to complete are well paced and satisfying to play. The game can be challenging but it’s not hard for the sake of being hard, and most enemies and bosses have very clear attack patterns that can be exploited. The E.M.M.I were my biggest worry but they ended up being a lovely addition that provided much needed fearful and tense situations. They also don’t overstay their welcome and are used in new ways each time you encounter them. My only issue is that towards the end of the game it becomes a little more Metroid Fusion-esque and often bottlenecks you into where you need to go instead of discovering stuff organically but this is a minor blemish on an otherwise incredible game. The story was also very intriguing and has plenty of twists and turns. Definitely don’t skip this one, even if you’re new to the franchise, it’s worth your time. Expand
  45. Oct 16, 2021
    10
    Absolutley amazing game. It plays super fluently, looks amazing, has an amazing story and atmosphere. Best metroid game in the series. Do think the pacing of the last part of the game was a bit to fast, but thats only a small point and even so its still a 10 for me. Recommended!
  46. 1jp
    Oct 16, 2021
    8
    I played about 9 hours to finish it. This is very short playing time. The game is good, worth to buy and play.
  47. Oct 11, 2021
    10
    An incredible experience from visuals to story.
    Don't listen to those complaining about price. This game as a triple A price because it has a triple A polish and is worth the price tag.
  48. Oct 16, 2021
    10
    Definitely GotY material. Challenging, but fair with a focus on mastery of the mechanics and game knowledge. If you’re looking for an Action Adventure Platformer that rewards tight play then look no further.
  49. Oct 16, 2021
    9
    If you think for a moment you might like this game, then just buy it. This game is a masterpiece! I played Fusion growing up, and the only reason I think it is better than this game is strictly nostalgia. Metroid Dread is superior in all other metrics. Is it challenging? Yes. But the bosses are never unfair, you just have to be patient and learn how to beat them. Also, it’sIf you think for a moment you might like this game, then just buy it. This game is a masterpiece! I played Fusion growing up, and the only reason I think it is better than this game is strictly nostalgia. Metroid Dread is superior in all other metrics. Is it challenging? Yes. But the bosses are never unfair, you just have to be patient and learn how to beat them. Also, it’s impossible to get soft locked. Just FYI Expand
  50. Oct 16, 2021
    5
    A fantastic return to the Metroid series! The feeling of isolation is back, Samus controls beautifully and when you master the terrain and pick up enough upgrades you’ll be zipping through the map like an unstoppable war machine. The EMMI are terrifying and add stealth gameplay that is fresh and exciting in Metroid. The bosses are unique and challenging! I’m not a super skilled player andA fantastic return to the Metroid series! The feeling of isolation is back, Samus controls beautifully and when you master the terrain and pick up enough upgrades you’ll be zipping through the map like an unstoppable war machine. The EMMI are terrifying and add stealth gameplay that is fresh and exciting in Metroid. The bosses are unique and challenging! I’m not a super skilled player and I did die a few times fighting bosses. But once you learn the attack patterns and get better at melee counters you can make quick work of them and it’s so satisfying! I definitely recommend for fans of Metroidvania games like Hollowknight and Blasphemous. Expand
  51. Oct 16, 2021
    6
    This is definately an overated game. I like Metroid games, however I would not class this as one of the better ones.

    The gameplay is generally good and some of the bosses are interesting. The incorporation of the upgrades throughout the game is generally good as well. Some of the story elements have potential. However there are some problems I found with the game. The graphics while
    This is definately an overated game. I like Metroid games, however I would not class this as one of the better ones.

    The gameplay is generally good and some of the bosses are interesting. The incorporation of the upgrades throughout the game is generally good as well. Some of the story elements have potential.

    However there are some problems I found with the game. The graphics while not terrible just don't seem that great in my opinion. The EMMI addition just seems like time wasting to pad out the game after the initial first experience, I feel this could have been handled in a much better way. Some of the mini bosses as well are literally exactly the same copied and pasted over the course of the game with some slight differences on occasion. It also feels like when fighting the bosses initially they take a larger amount of damage and then after a few attempts they make each phase a little easier so that you eventually win, again similar to before it just feels like padding over actually beating the boss due to skill. Some of the backtracking is good, however I don't really understand the point of the Warp points as they felt unnecessary and not really useful in their implementation in the game. Warp points can be great generally, but they are handled much better in other games and here it just detracts from the game. There is also annoying time loads when moving from one area to another seeing the same transit screens again and again.

    There is also a potentially interesting upgrade at the end of the game but again its never fully utilized. This feels to be the re-occuring theme of this game, there are good ideas but they are not fully accomplished.

    The story elements as mentioned earlier have potential, however overall just don't fully work. This game feels like it has some good ideas but just not quite executed in the best way to reach its potential. I cant understand why this is getting 10/10 scores as it is certainly not a perfect game or anywhere as near good as Super Metroid/Fusion or Zero Mission in my opinion.

    I think with some tuning they could make it a lot better in the future, hopefully they pick up on the gripes and resolve the problems people have with it.
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  52. Oct 16, 2021
    10
    In my Opinion just a Wonderful game. Samus Controls so Wonderful und Feels Incredibly Agile, and the Environments Look Stunning. The only thing that I don't like are some of the Speed-Booster Hidden Items. But because those are Optional, I can live with it.
  53. Oct 10, 2021
    1
    A SNES game released in 2021 for full price. Movement is spry, but other control features (e.g. only aiming while standing still, over-reliance on parry/QTEs, clunky weapon swap) make the game feel worse than indie competitors. An "easy mode" might defeat the purpose, but definitely needs a "where the f do I go?" mode. Very niche and doesn't deserve mainstream acclaim.
  54. Oct 16, 2021
    10
    One of the best Metroid ever. The exploration is at the same level of Super Metroid, and while having Adam and storyline, unlike Fusion and Other M, it is not so lineal.
    It is a hard game, specially because of the E.M.M.I chases, because they are smart (I remember one coming from behind when I was aiming forward with the omega cannon to get rid of it), but the controls and agility of
    One of the best Metroid ever. The exploration is at the same level of Super Metroid, and while having Adam and storyline, unlike Fusion and Other M, it is not so lineal.
    It is a hard game, specially because of the E.M.M.I chases, because they are smart (I remember one coming from behind when I was aiming forward with the omega cannon to get rid of it), but the controls and agility of Samus, which have been improved are smooth and enough to survive.
    Basically it brings back the atmosphere of being in a dangerous place, alone and without help. Once again Mercury Steam made the background alive, so there are details everywhere.
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  55. Oct 16, 2021
    10
    after not having a new metroid for years the game series comes back whit metroid dread an exelent fun game
  56. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    I honestly never thought I would ever see another side scrolling 2D style game I considered an absolute Masterpeice, but that's exactly what I feel Dread is!..A Masterpiece
    Dead Cell, Samus Returns, Valfarais, Salt and Sanctury were all amazing, but felt like they were just conecting dots or painting by numbers.
    Dread is amazing in every way, level design, puzzle design, mood , atmosphere
    I honestly never thought I would ever see another side scrolling 2D style game I considered an absolute Masterpeice, but that's exactly what I feel Dread is!..A Masterpiece
    Dead Cell, Samus Returns, Valfarais, Salt and Sanctury were all amazing, but felt like they were just conecting dots or painting by numbers.
    Dread is amazing in every way, level design, puzzle design, mood , atmosphere , challenge, it hits every note pitch perfect and feels like it's raising the bar.
    Mercury Steam has been evolving their formula over several games now and while Samus Returns was a perfect Metroidvania and Metroid, Dread goes a step beyond that..Easily one of the best games I've ever played and I am so glad Nintendo stuck to their guns and made this authentic experience, rather than succumbing to journalist preasure that every game must be for everyone.
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  57. Oct 15, 2021
    9
    Metroid Dread isn't the perfect game... but it's close. The graphics are detailed and beautiful at a steady 60 FPS. The gameplay is everything a Metroid game promises to be, exploration, challenging boss fights, amazing weapons, abilities, and upgrades.

    Graphics: 10
    Gameplay: 10
    Audio: 8.5
    Story: 8
  58. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    Metroid Dread is another big game in the franchise, Samus Aran is back and this new game it feels updated, on its gameplay, graphics, mechanics and story, it seems NIntendo is learning about how to tell stories and build hype with their more famous sagas, you can feel the essence of an 2D Metroid, with improved graphics and gameplay, sound is superb and transmits that sense of dread whileMetroid Dread is another big game in the franchise, Samus Aran is back and this new game it feels updated, on its gameplay, graphics, mechanics and story, it seems NIntendo is learning about how to tell stories and build hype with their more famous sagas, you can feel the essence of an 2D Metroid, with improved graphics and gameplay, sound is superb and transmits that sense of dread while you're being chased for the E.M.M.Is, you need to learn how to dodge enemy attacks, having a good timing is needed to defeat the sub bosses and the bosses, speaking of the control, I hated using the control stick to move Samus, but eventually I mastered the control and become easier to play using the control stick, a big applause to Mercury Steam for carrying a big franchise as Metroid on its back and thank you Nintendo to trust Metroid to them again. Expand
  59. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    One of the best switch games yet and easily my game of the year!
    Even if you’ve never played a Metroid game you owe it to yourself to experience this masterpiece, just be warned it’ll kick your ass.
  60. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    This was my first full experience with a Metroid game, and I loved every second of it. It can be though sometimes, but it was worth the many tries I had to do on each boss. Great exploration, the map is brilliant, all the areas are amazing and worth exploring. It's a must play for me, and so far favorite game this year.
  61. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    The best Metroid game, and one of the best Metroidvanias ever. To simply put it, this game has perfected the Metroid formula that we have seen over the years; with meticulous attention to detail, a wonderful and expansive map to explore, and tight, fast-paced gameplay, Metroid Dread is a rare example of Nintendo giving me exactly what I wanted, and more! I also was pleasantly surprisedThe best Metroid game, and one of the best Metroidvanias ever. To simply put it, this game has perfected the Metroid formula that we have seen over the years; with meticulous attention to detail, a wonderful and expansive map to explore, and tight, fast-paced gameplay, Metroid Dread is a rare example of Nintendo giving me exactly what I wanted, and more! I also was pleasantly surprised with the game's ending, which was a satisfying closure to Samus Aran's adventure. Game of the year! Expand
  62. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    I don't usually waste time reviewing a game on Metacritic unless it's so spectacular I get enthused enough about it I just can't contain myself. This is one of those games. I'll let that speak for itself.
  63. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    It was everything I wanted. The improvements made to the Samus Returns game engine were excellent.
  64. Oct 15, 2021
    7
    + One of the best, if not the best, stories in the series. The most digestible as well.
    + Tight, polished gameplay
    + Excellent art direction - $60 for a game that plays almost the same as the $40 3DS Samus Returns game, yet Dread is shorter. - Speed Boost puzzles are the absolute worst in the series, 99% chance you will be looking up answers online if you are trying to 100% the game.
    + One of the best, if not the best, stories in the series. The most digestible as well.
    + Tight, polished gameplay
    + Excellent art direction

    - $60 for a game that plays almost the same as the $40 3DS Samus Returns game, yet Dread is shorter.
    - Speed Boost puzzles are the absolute worst in the series, 99% chance you will be looking up answers online if you are trying to 100% the game.

    It's a great game and Metroid is probably my favorite franchise but I wish it did a little more and after 100%'ing it in 10 hours (I don't count the filler like Hard Mode which is cheaply hidden behind a Normal playthrough and the speedruns) it doesn't feel worth $60.
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  65. Oct 15, 2021
    8
    Nineteen years after the release of the previous chronological entry, Metroid Dread is a welcome return to the roots of the franchise. However, it suffers from several of the most glaring issues that MercurySteam's first Metroid entry, Samus Returns, also had.

    Starting off with some of the noteworthy pros, one of the biggest improvements Dread has made is to the fluidity of the
    Nineteen years after the release of the previous chronological entry, Metroid Dread is a welcome return to the roots of the franchise. However, it suffers from several of the most glaring issues that MercurySteam's first Metroid entry, Samus Returns, also had.

    Starting off with some of the noteworthy pros, one of the biggest improvements Dread has made is to the fluidity of the controls, which take full advantage of the Switch's twin sticks (and is especially effective on the Pro Controller) and makes navigating the world fun and enjoyable. The exploration itself is also excellent, with lots of the trademark hidden corridors and puzzles that long-time fans would expect from a main series title. The storytelling, while not quite up to par with Fusion, clearly is heavily influenced by it and gives a satisfying narrative that keeps you engaged and wanting more.

    Being a longtime fan myself, I desperately wanted to rate this a 100/100, but cannot bring myself to do so for several reasons. Primarily, these complaints revolve around the game's high difficulty and how its mechanics exacerbate the problems that arise from it.

    The first facet of this is the issue of damage received from enemies, and in particular bosses. The hardest hitting enemy I can remember from the classic 2D Metroid games would have to be the Omega Metroid from Fusion, which would take a full energy tank upon a hit, though even then, the battle was mostly scripted and thus rather inconsequential. In Dread however, this is the norm for standard enemies, and bosses regularly take from one, all the way up to three full energy tanks on a single hit. This not only makes your collected energy tanks feel far less useful, but leads to absurdly quick and often times unfair feeling deaths.

    The second would have to be the overreliance on mini-bosses and EMMI encounters. Without going into detail as to prevent spoilers, there are about 3 different mini-boss types in the game, not including the EMMI. One of these, a pre-requisite to fighting an EMMI, is not particularly offensive, but the other two are fast-paced, cramped encounters that suffer from the damage problem from the first facet, and are overused to the point of irritation. One particular instance near the end of the game has you fight a nearly identical mini-boss twice in a row, with only about 5 minutes of exploration separating the two. The EMMI, on the other hand, never gave me a sense of fear or dread as was the intention, and quickly went from an interesting new mechanic during the first or second areas to another point of monotony by the time I reached the third or fourth.

    The third facet is a returning issue from Samus Returns, namely, the counter. Thankfully, in normal exploration, the counter is almost entirely optional. However, in several boss fights, using counters is required to progress and/or cause damage. I vehemently dislike this mechanic, as the feeling of having to repeat a boss phase or lose a large chunk of your extremely limited health because you missed a single quicktime event is nothing short of enraging.

    The final boss of the game in particular is a major offender of the damage and countering facets, along with simply dragging on for too long, despite not having any mid-fight checkpoints, meaning you will have to start the fight from scratch if you fail. My playthrough of the game took about 30-35 attempts to finally beat it, for reference.

    On an unrelated point of criticism, the soundtrack to the game is incredibly disappointing, especially as a follow-up to Metroid Fusion, which has one of the most memorable and creative soundtracks of any game I have ever played. I cannot remember a single piece of music from the entire game aside from the remixed main theme and jingles that have appeared in every Metroid game, and while playing, the music seems to almost fade into the background instead of accompanying and enhancing the experience.

    Overall, while I am very happy to see the release of a new original 2D Metroid title, and have enjoyed the majority of the game thoroughly, the fundamental issues of the game have greatly hampered my experience, and I do not expect to have the urge to replay the game any time soon. For those reasons, I give the game a score of 80/100.
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  66. Oct 15, 2021
    9
    Metroid Dread es definitivamente la continuación merecida de la saga, creo que MercurySteam pudo llevar a la realidad la visión de Nintendo en cuanto a un juego de Metroid actual implementando mecánicas que ya habían introducido en Samus Returns pero mas pulidas. Visualmente es increíble como han podido plasmar tan bien el misterio y fondos 'industriales' que los antiguos juegos podíanMetroid Dread es definitivamente la continuación merecida de la saga, creo que MercurySteam pudo llevar a la realidad la visión de Nintendo en cuanto a un juego de Metroid actual implementando mecánicas que ya habían introducido en Samus Returns pero mas pulidas. Visualmente es increíble como han podido plasmar tan bien el misterio y fondos 'industriales' que los antiguos juegos podían transmitir con sprites pixelados, igual con el sonido han hecho un trabajo increíble recomendadisimo jugarlo con audífonos, el juego enfoca mas a los sonidos ambientales que a la propia música del juego, lo que hace que se tenga una atmosfera bien hecha pero un soundtrack mas débil en comparación al de los antiguos juegos de la saga. La historia es intrigante, creo que es el metroid mas centrado en la trama de toda la saga, y que explica muy bien en los primeros minutos todo el recorrido que Samus ha tenido hasta este punto y el tono que tendrá el juego. En general muy feliz con la quinta parte de la aventura de Samus, recomendado para fans del genero metroidvania, mas desafiante que los anteriores pero que es posible sobrellevarlo con las nuevas mecánicas y definitivamente a la altura de la saga 2D de Metroid. Expand
  67. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    It has an amazing story and mechanics, The gameplay is smooth and fun, The dificult is really balanced, it goes hard when it needs to be and amazing boss fights, The music and scenarios are really inmersive, absolutetly recommended
  68. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    Gran juego, definitivamente superó las expectativas. tiene una atmosfera envolvente que personalmente, me rememora mucho a mi infancia con los primeros juegos de la franquicia, con respecto al apartado sonoro y gráfico no hay mas que decir, no te llevarás ninguna decepción. Es uno de los mejores juegos en lo que va del año. Espero que gané algún game award!
  69. Oct 15, 2021
    6
    There seem to be very few objective reviews, or ones that speak from experience or a long-time appreciation for the series. This game has some serious issues relating to progression, pacing, and level design. A good way to illustrate this is the order of abilities.
    You get stuck between the first and second areas because you don't have morph ball or bomb yet and shooting the floor isn't
    There seem to be very few objective reviews, or ones that speak from experience or a long-time appreciation for the series. This game has some serious issues relating to progression, pacing, and level design. A good way to illustrate this is the order of abilities.
    You get stuck between the first and second areas because you don't have morph ball or bomb yet and shooting the floor isn't intuitive. You get spin boost and then space jump 30 mins later. Screw attack comes before both cross and power bomb and basically breaks the game. This is immediately after an intense difficulty spike and makes for a kind of whiplash.
    In Super, screw attack is optional and along with space jump, the last item in the game. It is there to facilitate backtracking and accessing 100% items, not to trivialize the game. Furthermore, the level / enemy / hazard design is an impedance to cheaping out.
    Either Mercury Steam did not do their homework or did not come to a very good understanding of what makes metroid special. The thought put into crafting a story through environment, progress, and atmosphere is just not in this game.
    It's main innovations are faster movement, difficulty, and boss design, but these are held back. Free aim and button combos for weapon selection feels clumsy on the tiny joy con controls. The pacing of difficulty is off, or perhaps the length of the campaign is. Boss fights are weirdly concentrated in one part of the game. The boss design of the 2nd half of the game is redundant and noticeably inspired by hollow knight, but unbalanced missing mechanics that help it to make sense. Healing, badges, deflection are basically replaced with QTEs from 2009.
    The 100% end-game challenges add some depth, but have you pulling off feats that you didn't even know were possible in the campaign. I couldn't help feeling like they would have played so much better as story puzzles, and that the game could have either been longer or designed to encourage better utilization of resources.
    Bottom line is this game doesn't really have a clear idea of what it wants to be. The music is completely forgettable. The story is basically Star Wars. I mean, c'mon people. Mercury Steam does not have the experience to build a truly immersive and meaningful metroid world/story, and is compensating for that with Hollywood visuals and derivative design elements.
    This does not feel like a $60 game to me, and I expected more from the first 2D Metroid designed for home consoles and AAA sensibilities in a long time. Reviewers seem like they need to go study Super Metroid.
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  70. Oct 15, 2021
    9
    Loving this game and the ascetics at every moment... Despite how lost I feel lost most the time, adds to the atmosphere.
  71. Oct 15, 2021
    2
    I love the parts of the game outside of EMMI encounters, really nailed Metroid with a Super Metroid feel.

    But no one asked for this Resident Evil Nemesis **** without a difficulty slider. Aiming at the heads of these EMMI bots with the precision of a sledgehammer on a console controller is super lame. I can do it, and I've nearly beat the game, but god damn is that tedious. Also the
    I love the parts of the game outside of EMMI encounters, really nailed Metroid with a Super Metroid feel.

    But no one asked for this Resident Evil Nemesis **** without a difficulty slider. Aiming at the heads of these EMMI bots with the precision of a sledgehammer on a console controller is super lame. I can do it, and I've nearly beat the game, but god damn is that tedious. Also the QTE **** from Chozo birds, get the **** out of here.

    I'll check before I buy next time. If there's these elements in the game, hard pass. I'm supposed to be playing Samus Aran - a badass. Instead, I get to be Jill Sandwich in a Soulsborne game that nobody asked for. And much like a Soulsborne game, upgrades don't matter. Get all of the energy tanks, great you get to take 6 hits instead of 5. Big Whoop. And I didn't even hunt down missiles and I never ran out. Confirmation that it's not about exploration and upgrades and it's all Soulsborne.

    And the exploration is cheapened. Immediately after you get a fancy new gadget to access things you just saw, the game is like no - that's walled off now by a new gadget and here's yet another EMMI that has even less of a time window to defeat and yet another QTE Chozo. The EMMIs get so ridiculous at the end that you have to grind through the same obstacle course for 1 minute and same 10 second load time and repeat only to fail and fail again. How the hell did this pass QA? What are these glowing reviews? Did you even finish the game? Take your ableist nonsense elsewhere.
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  72. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    I have played a lot of metroidvanias and this one is my new favorite. Definitely feels like a $60 game when compared to some indie metroidvanias. I really enjoyed the variety in abilities and enemies and the environment is interesting and dynamic too.
  73. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    Simply an amazing experience for Metroid fans. Combat, enemies, environments were well designed and beautiful.
  74. Oct 15, 2021
    1
    poor controls, especially crouch, either varies betwern frenetic action in which you need to have juvenile reflexes, or tedium wherein you need to find a hidden block ir crouchway and shoot it not once but twice. games that revolve around timing ate nit fun as a rule. this game, with its annoying gameboy feel, had you explore a generic sci fi labyrinth in pursuit of minutiae. the bosspoor controls, especially crouch, either varies betwern frenetic action in which you need to have juvenile reflexes, or tedium wherein you need to find a hidden block ir crouchway and shoot it not once but twice. games that revolve around timing ate nit fun as a rule. this game, with its annoying gameboy feel, had you explore a generic sci fi labyrinth in pursuit of minutiae. the boss fights are confusingly variable and require constant jumping and precise grinding of the controls. you need to s of precision, patience and a good memory, even then im not sure its worth it. Expand
  75. Oct 15, 2021
    6
    Great graphics and animations and the world is really deep and beautiful, the game just isn't very fun. LONG TIME Metroid fan and have played every game since Super Metroid but this one is different. The difficulty is pretty high all around but spikes to PUNISHING and often leads to frustrating repetitive deaths. Honestly kind of disowned. let's
  76. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    The gameplay is the best the series has ever gotten, samus feels fluid, agile and powerful. The map design is amazing and guides you with little clues to the next area without holding your hand while still letting you sequence break a multitude of items if you are clever enough. The graphics are good specially for a switch game running at 60fps. The bosses are tough but fair and the parryThe gameplay is the best the series has ever gotten, samus feels fluid, agile and powerful. The map design is amazing and guides you with little clues to the next area without holding your hand while still letting you sequence break a multitude of items if you are clever enough. The graphics are good specially for a switch game running at 60fps. The bosses are tough but fair and the parry sequences are absolutely jaw dropping for some of them. The story takes the game to another direction and the ending leaves endless possibilites for the next entries while closing the curtain on the first 5 metroid titles. Without a doubt a must have for the switch. Expand
  77. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Great grameplay, great gramphics. The sequel that Metroid has needed for 17 years. If you're complaining that the game is too hard, then you clearly haven't put enough effort into it. The bosses follow the same patterns so if you try them a couple times, you should get the hang of it. Expand
  78. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    Amazing game from start to end. Perfect pacing, great visuals, fast and fluid gameplay…I could go on and on. First game in a long time that I fully 100%’d, 15 hours flew by and I’m left wanting more.
  79. Oct 15, 2021
    9
    Great game! I really enjoyed to play Metroid Dread.
    Perfect Metroid for newcomers, but provides a lot of challenge to veterans. A little bit linear, but contains awesome boss battles and very nice areas to explore.
    If you are a Metroid fan, it is obligatory. If not, it is a great entrance to the franchise.
  80. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    GOTY for me - first time in probably a decade that i've felt legitimately challenged by a game. I'm a big fan of the series in general though. Metroid: Zero Mission and Metroid: Fusion were childhood favorites. It's amazing to return to the series after all these years. Mercury Steam did a great job with the variety of upgrades and skills this time around.
  81. Oct 15, 2021
    9
    Hands down the best 2D entry in the franchise!
    Have been completely hooked and love the introduction of the E.M.M.I.
  82. Oct 15, 2021
    9
    I 100%'d the game then immediately started another file. Never done that before. I have nits to pick here and there (the prologue, some of the writing and music choices, I'd love for the areas to be truly connected), but on the whole this easily beat my expectations. The movement is what makes it - the game feels like parkour, capping with the shinespark puzzles. The Experiment boss fightI 100%'d the game then immediately started another file. Never done that before. I have nits to pick here and there (the prologue, some of the writing and music choices, I'd love for the areas to be truly connected), but on the whole this easily beat my expectations. The movement is what makes it - the game feels like parkour, capping with the shinespark puzzles. The Experiment boss fight is one of the coolest in the entire series. Expand
  83. Oct 15, 2021
    9
    Shoutout to the boss who made me play flappy bird in 2021. Absolute Legend.
  84. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    The game is just awesome! The game design we all know from metroid games is back with a fresh stealth touch that made it so much more fun! Visuals, movement, ambience everything is great! My only complain is with the soundtrack. Despite not being bad, it`s just not so epic as in previous entries. But nothing that change my opinion after all. Metroid dread is a must play!
  85. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    Fantastic game, game of the year. My favorite parts were the giant worlds, godly abilities you acquire, and the boss battles. Would highly recommend.
  86. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    This game is a masterpiece and also game of the year so far in my opinion. The controls feel very smooth, the boss fights are fun and has a really great Metroid story.
  87. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    The best 2D Metroid I could've ever asked for, every aspect has been enhanced, the world is an absolute joy to explore, I had fun with this game like no other metroidvania out there!
  88. Oct 15, 2021
    9
    It's a great game. The level design is engaging and the controls are fluid and responsive.
    The boss battles are epic.
  89. Oct 15, 2021
    10
    Although we've had to wait for so long for a new Metroid game, the wait was worth it.
  90. Oct 15, 2021
    9
    100% fills that Metroidvania craving. Metroid fans are eating well this fall!
  91. Oct 15, 2021
    9
    Es una maravilla audiovisual, ya me he jugado la mitad del juego aproximadamente y no para de sorprenderme. La movilidad, los gráficos, el mapeado, etc... Sin ninguna duda, recomiendo comprarlo.
  92. Oct 14, 2021
    10
    This game is pure fun. While the game can be difficult at times, it's a perfect blend of old and new. This game brings Metroid to modern times with quality of life enhancements and modern controls that are amazing. The game's checkpoint system is also very kind to players and some patience is all that is needed to beat the game.
  93. Oct 14, 2021
    2
    I wouldn't describe any component of this game as being above mediocre, and many of them (controls, plot, environment visual design) are extremely underwhelming. Game falls far short of the standard set 25 years ago but Super Metroid.
  94. Oct 14, 2021
    10
    This was the first metroid game I've ever played and wow! It was an action packed side scrolling intense thrill ride that forces the player to learn the mechanics and use samus' abilities to find a way off planet ZDR. I'd reccomend it to anyone who owns a nintendo switch! Metroid Dread is my personal 2021 game of the year!
  95. Oct 14, 2021
    9
    This game is fantastic! Long time fans of the Metroid series are in for a treat with this entry as it delivers the best gameplay yet.

    Firstly, for graphics, this game is gorgeous! Its not the best graphical showcase of the Switch, but for a 2D game, this is really impressive, especially the cut-scenes. As for the game itself, the map is huge and well designed, it's fun to move around
    This game is fantastic! Long time fans of the Metroid series are in for a treat with this entry as it delivers the best gameplay yet.

    Firstly, for graphics, this game is gorgeous! Its not the best graphical showcase of the Switch, but for a 2D game, this is really impressive, especially the cut-scenes.

    As for the game itself, the map is huge and well designed, it's fun to move around as Samus, the combat has more options and is fluid as ever, pacing is phenomenal (until certain moments near the end), the boss fights are the series' best, and the story delivers for the most part.

    The biggest selling point of Metroid Dread are the EMMI robots that chase Samus during the adventure. These gameplay elements create high tension that is greatly welcomed. I feel a sense of pressure and adrenaline when being chased, in a good way.

    The only negatives I have with the game is the soundtrack. I find this new tracks to be very underwhelming and forgettable. The remixes of older songs are great though. Other issues I have with the game comes to my personal preference, but I wish there were more boss fights and one more area to explore. However, that is me wanting more of this amazing game. My final complaint is that I think the ending is too abrupt, but I will not go into spoilers.

    Overall, 9/10, an incredible game, it's a good time to be a Metroid fan!
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  96. Oct 14, 2021
    10
    El juego es bastante bueno, es agradable poder ver un nuevo juego de la franquicia.! espero poder ver mas pronto
  97. Oct 14, 2021
    6
    I like the game in general, I own every Metroid game and while I haven't beaten all of them, they're a fond part of my childhood. Honestly this game frustrated me to no end constantly, the number of boss battles is unending and its not really fun, no sooner than you beat a single boss, 3 rooms later you can run into another one.

    It feels like the developers just wanted to make a game
    I like the game in general, I own every Metroid game and while I haven't beaten all of them, they're a fond part of my childhood. Honestly this game frustrated me to no end constantly, the number of boss battles is unending and its not really fun, no sooner than you beat a single boss, 3 rooms later you can run into another one.

    It feels like the developers just wanted to make a game with some very RE 2 vibes with you being chased which while frustrating at times is pretty enjoyable, but the boss fights (especially the mini boss fights) are garbage for most of them a few are fine but my biggest frustration is that this means for those who are physically handicapped they're basically never going to play this game because there isn't an easier mode, normal is already a pretty difficult challenge, despite what the obnoxious minority of "git gud" players will say, several friends of mine are also having issues with the bosses. Dying 10-15 times in a game is one thing, but per boss because you're not hitting the right combo of 4-5 buttons is exhausting.

    I'm almost at the end of the game in the frozen areas and I think I'm not going to finish this game. I regret buying it day 1 and should have waited for a sale. I wanted to support Metroid games because I'm looking forward to the Metroid 4 but this is a game I'd say you can skip.
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  98. Oct 14, 2021
    10
    O game não supera o Super Metroid e acredito que superar o Metroid no SNES é algo que nunca vai acontecer. Mas metroid dread é excelente em termos graficos, historia, jogabilidade e dificuldade. Meu ponto negativo fica em relação a sua trilha sonora que deixa a desejar.
  99. Oct 14, 2021
    10
    As a 47 year old, who played the original Metroid when I was 12, and has considered Super Metroid one of my all time favorite games, I can say this is better! Hands down a must play game for any true gamer… who can appreciate a very well balanced challenge. This is what gaming is about! No difficulty setting nonsense… just the perfect difficulty setting from the start. It’s a hard game.As a 47 year old, who played the original Metroid when I was 12, and has considered Super Metroid one of my all time favorite games, I can say this is better! Hands down a must play game for any true gamer… who can appreciate a very well balanced challenge. This is what gaming is about! No difficulty setting nonsense… just the perfect difficulty setting from the start. It’s a hard game. You get your butt kicked, you practice, you learn, you get an adrenaline rush, and you eventually beat it. Super fun! Casual gamers need not apply here. Expand
  100. Oct 14, 2021
    10
    Just created this account to give this review. My first review here.

    Am in my 40s, playing video games since mid 80s. This is a stellar game, worth an easy 10 and GOTY award. In my opinion the best Metroid game ever created and possibly the best metroidvania out there, better than ori and hollow knight. Do not give any attention to these 0 reviews, these people are simply bad at gaming,
    Just created this account to give this review. My first review here.

    Am in my 40s, playing video games since mid 80s. This is a stellar game, worth an easy 10 and GOTY award. In my opinion the best Metroid game ever created and possibly the best metroidvania out there, better than ori and hollow knight. Do not give any attention to these 0 reviews, these people are simply bad at gaming, they can go play .. Kirby if they want a breeze lol The game is perfectly balanced. There is basically nothing to complain about. The complains about the emmis are invalid as these are just a very small portion of the game, perfectly balanced also here. Game is generally challenging but not unfair, graphics are pretty good (especially for a switch game, still cannot believe that this gem is running at 60fps), controls are pitch-perfect, movement is as fluid as ever, abilities are top-notch. It shows that the devs put a lot of love and thought to this game, exactly as they should for a franchise such as Metroid. Some bosses are kinda tough but as soon as you find their pattern, they are pretty doable. I just wished the game was a little longer, I didnt wanted it to finish basically. The game is easily worth the $60. Do not compare this gem to other metroidvanias, its one of a kind. This is a must have for any proper gamer.
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Metascore
88

Generally favorable reviews - based on 124 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Negative: 0 out of 124
  1. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Feb 18, 2022
    100
    Quotation forthcoming.
  2. Jan 20, 2022
    90
    After almost 20 years we finally have a sequel to the 2D series of Metroid games! Considering that, Dread does a great job of combining the new modern combat with the old elements of research and advancement, and it doesn't hurt that we have some of the best boss fights in the series. A true gem and a must have for all Switch gamers.
  3. Dec 13, 2021
    85
    Taking up the torch of a series interrupted nineteen years ago is never an easy task, but the MercurySteam studio is doing it with honors! The developers have chosen the path of security while perfectly respecting the spirit of the previous episodes, to the detriment of true modernity.