Tycho drew a comparison of Dead Space to Metroid, and while I didn't think it before I read it, I can't help but agree.
This isn't near as frantic as RE4 or a traditional shooter. There are frantic moments, but a lot of it is environment.
Combine that with the fact that you are in a location trying to decipher what exactly happened without truly interacting with anyone, and it really starts to sound like Metroid.
I definitely think Metroid fans should check the game out.