The sense of mystery. In Metroid games, the story often unfolds gradually as you explore. For example, in the original Metroid, you start with little information about Samus' mission and the world she's in. As you progress, you discover more about the Metroids, the Space Pirates, and the secrets of the planet Zebes. The isolation of Samus in these desolate and dangerous environments also adds to the intrigue. There are also plot twists like the revelation about Samus' true identity, which was a huge shock to players at the time.
Character development. Although Samus is a mostly silent protagonist, her actions and the way she overcomes challenges in the story tell a lot about her character. Her growth from facing different enemies and bosses, and her journey to stop the threat of the Metroids is a big part of what makes the story engaging. Each new area she explores and each new power - up she gets is part of her development in the overall story.
Yes, the final battle with Mother Brain in the original Metroid is a very memorable story moment. Samus has to use all her skills and power - ups she has acquired throughout her journey on Zebes. It's a tough fight and the culmination of the story, as she is trying to stop Mother Brain from using the Metroids for evil purposes.
The sense of isolation. Samus is often alone in vast and hostile environments. It creates a really immersive atmosphere that draws you into the story.
Definitely 'Metroid Prime 2: Echoes'. The dual - world concept with Aether and Dark Aether is really interesting story - wise. The conflict between the Ing and the Luminoth, and Samus getting caught in the middle of it makes for a complex and engaging story. There are also moral dilemmas as Samus has to make choices that affect the balance of these two worlds.
Well, starting with Metroid which introduced us to the world and the main character Samus. Then came Metroid II: Return of Samus which continued the story of Samus' battles against the Metroids. Super Metroid is a classic that further developed the story and gameplay. Metroid Fusion added new elements to the story. Metroid: Zero Mission was also important in the story's progression. The Metroid Prime series, including Prime, Prime 2: Echoes, and Prime 3: Corruption, told the story from a different perspective but still within the overall Metroid universe. Metroid: Other M and Metroid Dread also added their own twists and developments to the ongoing story.
I think 'Metroid: Other M' has a great story. It focuses on Samus's inner thoughts and past experiences more deeply. It shows her relationship with the Galactic Federation and her former comrades. The story is full of emotional moments and character development, especially when exploring Samus's vulnerability and her growth as a character throughout the game.
In story order, it's 'Metroid Zero Mission' as it sets the foundation. Next is 'Metroid Prime' which gives a lot of backstory about the Metroid universe. 'Metroid: Samus Returns' is also an important part as it continues Samus's journey. And 'Metroid Dread' is the latest in the series that progresses the story further. For example, in 'Metroid Prime', we learn about the Space Pirates and their motives, which ties into the overall story arc of the Metroid games.
The world - building is great. The different planets and areas in the Metroid games are full of unique creatures and landscapes. This helps in creating a rich story background.
In Metroid, the key is Samus exploring Zebes and the threat of the Metroids. In Metroid II, it's Samus' mission to wipe out the Metroids on SR388. Super Metroid has the rescue of the Metroid larva. Metroid Fusion is about Samus' infection by the X - Parasite. In Metroid: Zero Mission, Samus' early days on Zebes are explored more. In Metroid Prime, the story focuses on the lore of the planet Tallon IV. Metroid Prime 2 has the struggle against the Ing. Metroid Prime 3 is about Samus fighting the Phazon corruption. Metroid: Other M has Samus' emotional side shown. And in Metroid Dread, the mystery of the X - Parasite's return.
The story of 'Metroid Fusion' is quite good too. The idea of Samus being infected by the X - Parasite and having to fight against it while also dealing with the computer, Adam, that controls her actions. It's a story full of tension, with Samus having to constantly battle not only external enemies but also her own internal struggles as she tries to figure out what's really going on with her body and the station she's on.
The best Metroid stories are appealing because of their sense of isolation. Samus is often alone in vast and hostile environments, like in 'Metroid Prime'. This isolation makes the player really feel like they are in Samus's shoes, exploring the unknown. It's a unique feeling that not many games can replicate.