Metroid Dread

 Switch
User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 2790 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2,386 out of 2790
  2. Mixed: 158 out of 2790
  3. Negative: 246 out of 2790
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  1. Kostie100
    Oct 11, 2021
    10
    Best 2D Metroid game I’ve ever played! So glad to see Mercury steam produce this masterpiece. Smoothest gameplay, controls and animations I’ve seen for a metroidvania. Emmi provide an interesting challenge and add to the overall atmosphere. Bosses are tough and rewarding.
  2. shi11tenshi
    Oct 13, 2021
    10
    The best game since super everything that longtime fans have been waiting for. Master class in game design take notes this is how you make a comeback.

    There are sequence brakes. Their story if you pay attention and for those complaining that the game is too difficult get good
  3. Ajpunker1980
    Nov 20, 2021
    10
    Amazing! Worth the wait. I would say as good if not better than the classic 2D Metroid series. Tight controls, fast gameplay, and an incredible new adventure for Samus to once again explore.
  4. slikk66
    Oct 22, 2021
    10
    Really good. Getting better as it goes on. I played the OG in '85, then Super Metroid, then zero mission and fusion on GBA, tried prime on the Wii but eh, 2D is where it's at for me, and this is pretty close to perfection. At first I got stuck and got frustrated, now it seems I'm blowing through it a bit faster than I expected. Either way, hard to ask for much more. Was worried it wouldReally good. Getting better as it goes on. I played the OG in '85, then Super Metroid, then zero mission and fusion on GBA, tried prime on the Wii but eh, 2D is where it's at for me, and this is pretty close to perfection. At first I got stuck and got frustrated, now it seems I'm blowing through it a bit faster than I expected. Either way, hard to ask for much more. Was worried it would go on the pile with all the games I won't ever finish, but I don't think that's the case here. Recommended… Expand
  5. Fortius
    Feb 1, 2023
    10
    The atmosphere, controls, soundtrack, and gameplay was amazing. I loved the fear that the EMMI invoke. The game was a little short for the high price but it was a great experience.
  6. Conor419
    Oct 11, 2021
    10
    I am a long-time PC user, but I have to admit that this game is better than the entirety of PC gaming. I am confused because I thought PC was the master platform, yet I can't play it legally on PC on day one? Wtf? I have immediately sold my PC and bought a Switch, I have also burned my copy of Hollow Knight. The world is now a better place in general.
  7. xdestron
    Oct 14, 2021
    10
    This game was way better than I was expecting. I was never a huge fan of the Metroid series, even though I did really like indie titles like Hollow Knight, but I think this game just made me a fan.

    The entire game is extremely polished. The environments, the animations, the little touches, they're all there to the point where you could tell the developers really cared about making this    This game was way better than I was expecting. I was never a huge fan of the Metroid series, even though I did really like indie titles like Hollow Knight, but I think this game just made me a fan.

    The entire game is extremely polished. The environments, the animations, the little touches, they're all there to the point where you could tell the developers really cared about making this game great, which they did. I feel like I should really emphasize the art style and the environments because they really pop and look incredible everywhere you go.

    The gameplay is great. The abilities come at a nice clip, and there are a lot of them. And they do a great job of making you feel more powerful as you go. Combat is fun, and the bosses battles are amazing and fun. Yes they are hard. Yes you will die a lot. The great part about this game is that it lets you retry immediately. It's almost like a roguelike at times where you get better at a part by replaying it over and over. A boss or EMMI encounter that seems impossible at first suddenly becomes easy. It's definitely empowering. I never found the difficulty to be too much (I'm near endgame)

    The only other thing I'd like to point out in closing is that Samus is totally badass in this game.

    10/10 must play if you own a Switch.    … Expand
  8. dharma
    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.
  9. lucasbrum
    Oct 13, 2021
    10
    Terrific. Samus is back. Mercury Steam created their best game and everything is polished as we expect from a Nintendo quality standard.
  10. xxAcesHighxx
    Feb 10, 2023
    10
    Who’d have thought that a 2D game that isn’t a Mario title would have elevated itself into one of the top five Switch games to date. Fantastic gameplay, gorgeous 2.5D environments, stellar boss fights and incredible exploration make Dread one of the very best Metroid games ever made and an absolute no-brainer for any Nintendo fan who owns a Switch. In my books, this is a rare genuine 10/10Who’d have thought that a 2D game that isn’t a Mario title would have elevated itself into one of the top five Switch games to date. Fantastic gameplay, gorgeous 2.5D environments, stellar boss fights and incredible exploration make Dread one of the very best Metroid games ever made and an absolute no-brainer for any Nintendo fan who owns a Switch. In my books, this is a rare genuine 10/10 game and an exceptional experience regardless of platform. Do not miss out on this game!… Expand
  11. SliceOfBrownBre
    Oct 21, 2021
    10
    Fan of Metroid since Prime 1 and this is what we expected.

    Only a few (negative) points to mention : 1- The game is HARD, but never unfair. It plays so well that even if you fail a boss, you just want to get back in and learn it's patterns and weaknesses. 2- Soundtrack is OK,not going to be as classic as Prime or Super. The rest of the game is pretty much perfect for a    Fan of Metroid since Prime 1 and this is what we expected.

    Only a few (negative) points to mention :

    1- The game is HARD, but never unfair. It plays so well that even if you fail a boss, you just want to get back in and learn it's patterns and weaknesses.

    2- Soundtrack is OK,not going to be as classic as Prime or Super.

    The rest of the game is pretty much perfect for a Metroid-Vania style game, The graphics are amazing, the Controls are crisp and responsive and the story is suprisingly in depth. Thanks to Mercury Steam for putting Metroid back on track.    … Expand
  12. Sephet
    Nov 5, 2021
    10
    Classic Metroidvania experience with a hint of Alien games, where you're constantly chased by bosses far more powerful than you. Great atmosphere and platforming, quite possibly one of the greatest Metroids ever made. And the best part is it's available on Windows!
  13. SirArthur
    Oct 10, 2021
    10
    Después de Super Metroid y Metroid Fusion, este es el mejor juego de la saga en 2D. Fresco, moderno y a la vez sin perder un ápice de su esencia que hizo esta franquicia de las mejores del mundillo, los nintenderos y los amantes del género search action -que no metroidvania-, que te puedas hechar en las manos. GRACIAS NINTENDO, GRACIAS MERCURYSTEAM, por esta magna JOYA.
  14. oceano4
    Oct 14, 2021
    10
    I joined the Metroid fandom as a teenager close to 2008. The 2D Metroids story seemed known by practically everyone even slightly interested in Metroid. And after seeing years of Dread rumours, and the cancelled project, left me with no thoughts of ever seeing Samus' story progress past Fusion.

    10+ years later for me, and near enough 20 for long time fans, we finally get to see what    I joined the Metroid fandom as a teenager close to 2008. The 2D Metroids story seemed known by practically everyone even slightly interested in Metroid. And after seeing years of Dread rumours, and the cancelled project, left me with no thoughts of ever seeing Samus' story progress past Fusion.

    10+ years later for me, and near enough 20 for long time fans, we finally get to see what happens next, and it doesn't disappoint. The setting of the game felt extremely atmospheric, the lore implications extremely interesting, and the game play felt absolutely amazing after an initial teething period.
    I would also like to point out just how *detailed* the backgrounds to rooms are in this game. Metroidvania's are a type of game that will have many rooms, and they could of just gone the easy route and made them copy and pastes, but almost every single room from start to finish, felt unique.
    The new abilities felt amazing to use, and Samus has never been faster, leading to some extremely tense and adrenaline fuelled boss fights.
    I can't recommend this game enough, this was almost everything I've wanted in a Metroid game in the last 10 years.    … Expand
  15. Breadbitten
    May 8, 2023
    10
    While the world design might not be as elaborate or double-backing as some of the games which have been inspired by the Metroid franchise itself, Dread is still impeccably designed and well-paced with some of the best combat to ever grace a 2D side-scroller.
  16. kamikava
    Nov 8, 2021
    10
    Brought up on Super Metroid so very nostalgic. Loved every second, great game!
  17. Denriquez
    Oct 13, 2021
    10
    It’s just the best 2D Metroid game. Fantastic grafics and super good gameplay. It’s a modern game with an old school soul. God bless Nintendo - Mercurysteam
  18. Ripred
    Oct 11, 2021
    10
    Absolutely incredible. Everything I've wanted in a metroid game for years. This is it.
  19. polter15
    Oct 26, 2021
    10
    With so many easy wayouts Nintendo and MercurySteam could've got nowadays, I'm so glad that they respected Metroid core mechanics and its loyal fanbase. Brilliant game design and incredible boss battles. The best game I've played in years.
    That being said, the soundtrack is a little lackluster at some points, especially if you consider the brilliant pieces that the series had over the years.
  20. marck
    Nov 3, 2021
    10
    Fantastic! If you played to older games in the series or not - this is what it is about! The game tickles your skills, while always being fair, because you keep getting better and better and it feels so good. To me the best ‚platformer‘ with the most diverse gameplay I have ever played. And it looks fantastic too! Genius game. Thank you Nintendo!
  21. jholden3249
    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.
  22. AmongstYou
    Oct 9, 2021
    10
    I have to acknowledge first my own bias: Metroid means a lot to me, and I'm an unabashed enthusiast of the Metroid-vania genre. If you're someone who finds games like Hollow Knight, Axiom Verge, Ori, past Metroid titles, etc... too difficult or frustrating (or just uninteresting), then this game isn't for you.
    However, if you're either a veteran fan of the genre like me, or you're just    I have to acknowledge first my own bias: Metroid means a lot to me, and I'm an unabashed enthusiast of the Metroid-vania genre. If you're someone who finds games like Hollow Knight, Axiom Verge, Ori, past Metroid titles, etc... too difficult or frustrating (or just uninteresting), then this game isn't for you.
    However, if you're either a veteran fan of the genre like me, or you're just looking for something tougher than the standard Switch release and are looking to try something new, then this is a MUST play. MercurySteam has easily crafted their finest game to date, and created another worthy entry to the 2D Metroid saga. The design and form here is so tight that I legitimately can't conjure any criticisms. It's simply that good.

    Welcome back, Samus. We missed you. See you again when we finally get Metroid Prime 4.    … Expand
  23. Steyraus
    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.    … Expand
  24. mZuzek
    Oct 9, 2021
    10
    The first new 2D Metroid game in 19 years is also the best Metroid game in 19 years (at least). There's a lot of weight on Dread's shoulders but the game deals with it effortlessly. It's not afraid to take risks and change up the series' staples, both in terms of gameplay and story, and it hits the mark everytime. Everything from the controls to the atmosphere, the visuals and soundtrack,The first new 2D Metroid game in 19 years is also the best Metroid game in 19 years (at least). There's a lot of weight on Dread's shoulders but the game deals with it effortlessly. It's not afraid to take risks and change up the series' staples, both in terms of gameplay and story, and it hits the mark everytime. Everything from the controls to the atmosphere, the visuals and soundtrack, the progression and map design, the story, everything is absolutely spot on. 88 might be a good score but it doesn't do this game justice. It easily surpassed my highest expectations and I believe it'll do the same for most people, long-time fans or newcomers alike.… Expand
  25. turnedwand
    Jan 20, 2023
    10
    I played this when it came out in 2021 but only just now getting around to writing this review. Great game. Best game I've played on Switch for a while. A "Must Play" if you ask me. I played MP on GBA years ago and enjoyed that a lot too. This is a potent successor.
  26. loezix
    Oct 10, 2021
    10
    Game is amazing,

    This is one of those you can't get enough.

    Must play.

    Switch's best game for me
  27. Mark_Tamura
    Oct 11, 2021
    10
    The Metroid we have all been waiting for!
    I've played all metroids and all the good castlevanias and I've been craving a game like this for ages!
    The pacing of the game is great and the story will catch many fans by surprise!
  28. Nico85
    Oct 12, 2021
    10
    Excellent game! I had been looking forward to playing and i’ve been rewarded. The atmosphere is brilliant and the gameplay is fantastic. It’s no wonder that this game birthed a whole genre.
  29. refasliva
    Oct 14, 2021
    10
    Incredibly satisfying, and absolutely delivers everywhere! The combat is fantastic, ambiance is top notch and eerie in classic Metroid ways. Up there with Super Metroid and Metroid Prime for me, and honestly might be even above those!
  30. solrac780
    Oct 14, 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
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Awards & Rankings

9
#9 Best Switch Game of 2021
1
#1 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2021

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
88

Generally favorable reviews - based on 124 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 116 out of 124
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 124
  3. Negative: 0 out of 124
  1. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Feb 18, 2022
    100
    Quotation forthcoming.
  2. IGN Adria
    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.
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  3. JeuxActu
    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.
    Read full review
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