Does Metroid have multiple endings?
In the Metroid series, the concept of multiple endings has been a fascinating topic of discussion among fans. With the introduction of Metroid Prime in 2002, the franchise shifted its focus from side-scrolling action to first-person exploration, raising questions about the possibility of multiple endings. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Metroid, exploring the various endings that have been implemented throughout the series.
Early beginnings:
In the original Metroid (1986), the game concluded with Samus Aran emerging victorious, having defeated the Space Pirates and their attempt to harness the power of the Metroid. There were no alternative endings in the classic sense, as the game’s storyline was more focused on action and exploration.
Metroid II: Return of Samus (1991):
The sequel, Metroid II: Return of Samus, saw the introduction of a branching storyline, where the player’s decisions influenced the ending. There were two possible endings: one where Samus defeated the Metroid Queen, and another where she failed to eliminate the Queen. This mechanic set the stage for the exploration of multiple endings in future Metroid games.
Super Metroid (1994):
Super Metroid is widely considered one of the greatest games of all time. This 16-bit masterpiece boasted a more complex storyline, with multiple endings tied to the player’s performance and completion time. Complete the game under three hours to unlock the "100% ending", featuring a unique scene showcasing Samus’s iconic power suit.
Metroid Prime (2002):
Metroid Prime marked a significant shift in the franchise’s direction, adopting a first-person perspective and more complex storytelling. Three endings were available, each tied to the player’s completion time: Hard, Normal, and Fusion modes. The game’s final scenes featured different animations, hinting at the impact of the player’s progress on the game’s universe.
Metroid Prime 2: Echoes (2004):
The sequel, Metroid Prime 2: Echoes, introduced six different endings, depending on the player’s choices throughout the game. This marked a significant departure from the linear storytelling of the first Metroid Prime.
Metroid Fusion (2002):
Metroid Fusion, released simultaneously with Metroid Prime, offered a unique ending mechanism. The game featured two possible endings, one of which required the player to collect every item and complete the game without taking damage. This emphasized the importance of exploration and strategy in the game’s design.
Metroid Dread (2021):
The latest installment, Metroid Dread, features three endings, including a secret ending. Players can unlock this hidden ending by meeting specific requirements during their playthrough.
Child Mode and Phazon Suit:
Dark Samus, a recurring antagonist in the series, wears the Phazon Suit. This armor was named after the Phazon substance, which granted Dark Samus her abilities. The Child Mode ending, exclusive to Metroid Fusion, shows Samus under the Phazon Suit, hinting at her transformation into Dark Samus.
Table of Endings:
| Game | Number of Endings | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Metroid | 1 | Linear storyline, no branching paths |
| Metroid II: Return of Samus | 2 | Branching storyline based on player choices |
| Super Metroid | 3 | Three endings tied to completion time and performance |
| Metroid Prime | 3 | Three endings tied to completion time (Hard, Normal, Fusion) |
| Metroid Prime 2: Echoes | 6 | Six endings tied to player choices throughout the game |
| Metroid Fusion | 2 | Two endings, one requiring the collection of every item and completing the game without taking damage |
| Metroid Dread | 3 | Three endings, including a secret ending |
In conclusion, the Metroid series has explored multiple endings in various forms, from branching storylines to timed-dependent conclusions. The series has consistently pushed the boundaries of storytelling and gameplay, encouraging players to experiment and adapt to different situations.