Truely the most plot driven title of the Metroid franchise, and definitely one of the best, if not the best game on GBA.
Pros - Gameplay, Replay Value, Storyline
Cons - Short
- Gameplay -
First and foremost, this game has great gameplay, like any Metroid title before it. It is a 2-D side scroller where your weapon is, of course, an arm cannon. You go throughout the game collecting "power-ups" and destroy several bosses and enemies. You will love your time playing this, as there are several bosses, and enemies, along with the intense, unexpected events that make this game what it is. Every move is smooth, and easy, yet a fun challenge. The Metroid games are well known for their Speed Runs making this a fast paced game, and unfortunately rather short. On your first run through the game, you may get 8 hours if you prepare well, but later, you'll be able to beat it in about 2 hours or less! Of course, the great replay value makes up for it's short time, and if that isn't enough, there's plenty of items for you to collect, so you'll have fun either way. I gave the Gameplay, and the Value, an incredible, 10 out of 10.
- Graphics -
This game has great graphics for a GBA title, let alone a 2-D Metroid game. When you stop, she breathes, the background moves, flashes. There is tons of background scenery for you to enjoy as well. The enemies move well, and smooth. Sure there are the few jerky movements, and it doesn't compare to it's sister game: Metroid Zero Mission, but it still has great graphics. I gave the Graphics a superb, 9 out of 10.
- Sound -
For a GBA game, the sound is fantastic. The music, as with all of the Metroid games, is remarkable. The Metroid series is known well for it's dark and heroic sci-fi music. This game has some of the best. Although creepy at times, it's great. Kenji did a great job on this game. The enemy sounds are realistic as well. They give a powerful mood to the game. I gave the sound and incredible 10 out of 10.
- Story -
This game, like I said before, is the most plot driven title in the Metroid series. It has great cutscenes, along with sequences where Samus talks about what she's thinking, much like in a journal. You also communicate with a computer named "Adam" by Samus. The story itself is great. It's full of unexpected surprises. A rich, spooky, Sci-Fi story describes this game, and whether you're into that type of genre or not, you'll love it. I gave the Story a 10 out of 10.
Overall, this is a great game, one that you need in your GBA collection. It is defenitely a must-buy. You WILL have fun playing this, I guarantee it.