Metroid Dread (NS / Switch)

Metroid Dread is a single-player, action 2D-platform game. The story follows Samus Aran as she travels to the remote planet ZDR to investigate a mysterious transmission. Upon arrival, she learns that the planet is overrun by hostile creatures and the deadly E.M.M.I., robotic units once deployed by the Galactic Federation. Stripped of some of her abilities after an encounter with a Chozo warrior, Samus must reclaim her power, unravel the secrets of ZDR, and confront the threat posed by the ancient Chozo civilization.

The player explores a large, interconnected world composed of distinct biomes such as caverns, laboratories, lava zones, and underwater areas. Progression is non-linear but gated by obstacles that can only be bypassed once Samus regains specific abilities. Exploration is aided by navigation rooms and map terminals that gradually reveal the structure of each region. Save stations, teleporters, and elevators link the planet’s areas together, allowing fast travel between key locations once discovered.

Combat and movement are tightly integrated. Samus wields her Arm Cannon for beam attacks and missiles, and she acquires upgrades that expand her arsenal, such as ice missiles, charge shots, and beam combinations. E.M.M.I. robots patrol designated zones where conventional weapons are ineffective; in these areas, players must use stealth, mobility, and timing to escape. Boss battles punctuate each region, requiring mastery of Samus’s mobility and timing against large enemies with multiple attack phases.

Progression follows the established Metroid structure of collecting power-ups that unlock new paths. Familiar abilities such as the Morph Ball, Screw Attack, and Space Jump return, while new powers like the Phantom Cloak allow stealth through temporary invisibility. Each upgrade opens shortcuts or hidden paths in earlier areas, encouraging backtracking to find collectibles like energy tanks and missile expansions. The world is filled with optional secrets that reward careful observation. Multiple endings are unlocked based on completion time and item collection, continuing the tradition of rewarding efficient exploration.