The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) were both iconic consoles of the 8-bit era, but none captured the imaginations of gamers quite like the Metroid series. The SNES installment, Super Metroid, is widely regarded as one of the best games of all time, and its influence can still be felt in the gaming industry today.

In 2017, Nintendo released a remastered version of Super Metroid for the Wii U Virtual Console, which was followed by a similar release on the Nintendo Switch through the "Nintendo Switch Online" service. This re-release allowed fans to experience the game once again, and introduced it to a new generation of players who may not have been aware of its greatness.

But what exactly makes Super Metroid so special? For those who may be unfamiliar, the game follows the story of bounty hunter Samus Aran as she explores the planet Zebes in search of the Space Pirate Ridley. Along the way, she must confront various alien creatures and bosses, all while trying to uncover the secrets behind the planet's mysterious energy source.

One of the key factors that sets Super Metroid apart from other games is its non-linear design. Unlike many platformers of the time, which featured a straightforward linear progression through levels, Super Metroid allows players to explore the environment in any order they choose. This freedom to experiment and discover new paths and secrets is a major part of the game's appeal.

Another key aspect of Super Metrio is its atmospheric soundtrack and sound effects. The music was composed by Hirokazu Tanaka, who also worked on other notable Nintendo games such as Kid Icarus and EarthBound. The score perfectly complements the game's dark and ominous tone, creating an immersive experience that draws players in and refuses to let go.

In terms of gameplay, Super Metrio is a masterclass in design. The controls are precise and responsive, allowing players to execute complex maneuvers with ease. The power suit, which Samus wears throughout the game, also adds a new layer of strategy to the gameplay, as players must manage its energy reserves carefully in order to stay alive.

Of course, no discussion of Super Metroid would be complete without mentioning its influence on the gaming industry. Many games have borrowed elements from this iconic title, and it can be seen in everything from the design of level layouts to the use of non-linear progression.

As for the release date, Super Metrio was released in 1994 by Nintendo as part of the Super NES library. The game's rating is E10+ by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) for Everyone 10 and older due to mild violence, blood, and cartoon characters.

In terms of its critical reception, Super Metroid received widespread acclaim upon release. Reviewers praised the game's atmospheric soundtrack, precise controls, and challenging gameplay, with many considering it one of the best games of all time.

However, in recent years, there has been some controversy surrounding the re-release of Super Metrio on Nintendo Switch. Some fans were disappointed by the lack of significant changes or additions to the original game, leading to accusations that Nintendo was simply cashing in on the nostalgia factor. However, others saw the re-release as a great opportunity for new players to experience the game and discover its greatness.

In 2022, Super Metrio Lost World 2.0 Games were released, which further enhanced the gameplay of original with some new power-ups and upgrades to help Samus survive.