Retro Games Zone

Metroid - Zero Mission (E)(Rising Sun)

What is Metroid - Zero Mission (E)(Rising Sun)?

Nintendo completely remade our 1986 NES journey on Game Boy Advance, transforming that raw, pioneering game into something smoother and more substantial. This European edition delivers the definitive version of Samus's first adventure, packed with beautiful sprite work, smartly retuned level design, and entire new chapters not found on the NES.

  • A Polished Foundation
    Zero Mission rebuilds that sprawling, interconnected maze of Planet Zebes from the ground up, keeping all the magic of stumbling onto the Varia Suit in a random lava room, but reworking confusing NES hallways into a more sensical, but still challenging, world map.
  • Expanded Narrative Canvas
    I was genuinely shocked the first time the game wasn't over after beating Mother Brain. It leads into an incredible new stealth-based sequence on the Space Pirate ship, requiring you to navigate as powerless Samus before reclaiming your iconic suit - a brilliant narrative twist on classic power-up progression.
  • Refined Legacy Gameplay
    Core upgrades like the Morph Ball and Ice Beam feel even more satisfying to use thanks to the GBA's superb D-pad. Wall-jumping and shinesparking, while tricky, are tighter than in Super Metroid, demanding true platforming mastery for sequence-breaking and getting 100% completion.
Metroid - Zero Mission (E)(Rising Sun)

Why choose Metroid - Zero Mission (E)(Rising Sun)?

For me, this is the absolute best place to experience the birth of the Metroidvania genre. It manages to be both the clearest gateway for newcomers and a lovingly crafted time capsule for veterans, proving that superb 2D game design absolutely stands up today. The addition of an unlockable NES ROM after beating it just seals the deal.

  • A Foundational Piece of History, Polished
    You still feel the isolation and awe of exploring Zebes’ alien caverns, chasing unknown Chozo statues, but without the frustrating, cryptic aimlessness that could plague the original version. It's the ideal version of a gaming milestone.
  • Masterclass in Progression and 'Ah-Ha!' Moments
    That loop of finding a new ability and instantly knowing exactly which blocked door it opens half a world away? It’s pure here. Snagging the Screw Attack after hours of play to become a flying buzzsaw through old obstacles never gets old, even 20 years later.
  • Unmatched Replayability and Secrets
    Between speed run routes, sequence breaks that let you skip Kraid, hunting down every last Missile tank across massive optional areas, and hard mode for veterans, there's more meaningful content packed into this GBA cart than many full console games.

How to play Metroid - Zero Mission (E)(Rising Sun)?

You’ll navigate Samus through the labyrinthine recesses of Planet Zebes, switching between precise platforming and blasting aliens, with constant gear upgrades altering your path. Careful backtracking is just as important as slick combat reflexes is required. Using the keyboard controls feels surprisingly natural.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Metroid - Zero Mission (E)(Rising Sun)