Metroid Prime isn’t the only game starring Samus out on the show floor. Metroid Fusion is also avaliable to play. In Fusion, Samus’ suit is fused with a metroid, making for some very intresting gameplay. Fusion plays very much like a classic Metroid title. There is one significant change though. Due to the fusion with the metroid, Samus must actaully absorb enemies to gain energy. Enemies are creatures infested with some kind of viral organisim called “X." When baddies are killed the X virus flys out and zips around the screen. If Samus touches the virus she gains energy or missiles and probably other powerups too. This adds quite a twist on the gameplay because if Samus doesn’t absorb the X virus it will re-infest a host and you’ll have to take out the host again.

Fusion plays a lot like Super Metroid. The acutal style of play is vertical platofrming. The core of Metroid has been untouched for the most part. There are a few new additions. Namly now there are ladders in some areas. Samus can climb ladders and she can also hang from monkeybars. Not only that, but she can hang from ledges, which is a little odd because she grabs with both hands despite the fact that one hand is her arm cannon.

As a game, Metroid Fusion rocks. The gameplay is quick but not overwhelmingly fast. The new mechanics are a very welcome addition to the classic Metroid formula. Fans will love this title. The build on the E3 show floor seemed a little early, and the graphics were a bit sloppy. Other than that, it played like a charm. Look out for this one.