Metroid 2: Return of Samus gets a remake for the 3DS in Metroid: Samus Returns. In this 3DS remake of the classic Gameboy Color entry, Samus returns to Planet Zebes on orders of the Galactic Federation in the year 20X5, after defeating the space pirates she’s ordered to land on SR388 to exterminate the Metroids previously used by the pirates once and for all.

Metroid: Samus Returns is a 2017 remake of Metroid: Return of Samus, it is developed by MercurySteam and published by Nintendo, it is available exclusively on the Nintendo 3DS.

Samus is back in the remake of a classic.

Ever since the release of Metroid: Other M on the Wii in 2010 fans of the Metroid fans have begged Nintendo for a new entry in the long-running Nintendo staple. In 2016 we received a spinoff in Metroid Prime: Galactic Federation, a cooperative shooter acting in the spirit of Metroid without much else in resemblance. While Galactic Federation wasn’t a fan favorite it released to average to moderate reviews. Now just one year later Nintendo releases a core title in Metroid: Samus Returns, a remake of Metroid 2: Return of Samus.

Samus is back in beautiful 3D.

THE GOOD: While the core Metroid gameplay is there some tweaks and upgrades have been made to accommodate the 3DS handheld. If you’ve played ‘Return of Samus’ the story is basically pretty much the same more or less, this is a remake after all. Some of the aforementioned tweaks include a new melee counter that can be used for extra damage against dashing enemies. There’s difficulty for some players still fairly new to the Metroid series (such as myself), but hardcore fans will find themselves right at home, and even newcomers will get a kick out of Samus Returns.

Samus’ new melee attack in Metroid: Samus Returns.

THE BAD: Story wise there’s not much reward for players of the original version of the game.

Samus takes on a Metroid.

OVERALL THOUGHTS: Both hardcores and newcomer fans of Metroid will have a fun time with Metroid: Samus Return whether it’s through nostalgia or an entirely new experience. Though the story lacks for those who played the original on the Gameboy Color, it will at least hold relevance to many who skipped it or weren’t able to play it. The new gameplay mechanics will likely make for a smooth transition from those who had played the original.