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.
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.
Definitely start with the original 'Metroid'. It sets the foundation for the entire series. You'll get to know Samus, the main character, and the basic premise of hunting Metroids. Then move on to 'Metroid II: Return of Samus' as it continues the story in a logical way.
I would also put 'Pokemon Sun and Moon' high up. It had a very different and refreshing story. It focused on the Alola region's unique culture and the trials instead of the traditional gym battles. The story was more about the player's journey of discovery and friendship in this new region.
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 continues with 'Metroid Fusion'. Here, Samus becomes infected with an X - parasite and has to fight for her life while also dealing with the threat the X - parasites pose. 'Metroid: Zero Mission' is a remake of the original 'Metroid' that also adds some new story elements. In more recent games like 'Metroid Dread', the story delves deeper into the lore of the Chozo, Samus's origin, and the ever - present threat of the Metroids and other dangerous creatures in the Metroid universe.
The sequence starts with 'Metroid Zero Mission' which is crucial for understanding Samus's early experiences. Then 'Metroid Prime' comes in as a prequel that enriches the backstory. 'Metroid: Samus Returns' continues the flow. And 'Metroid Dread' is the next step in the story. For instance, in 'Metroid Zero Mission', we see how Samus gets her suit upgrades, which is important for her later adventures in other games in the sequence.
One way is to look at the character development. In Halo: Reach, for example, we see the growth and sacrifice of the Noble Team members. Another aspect is the world - building. Halo games like Combat Evolved introduced us to the vast and complex Halo universe. Also, the plot twists matter. Halo 2 had some unexpected turns with the Arbiter's story.