First, if you’re looking for more detailed info on Metroid Fusion, check out the Preview. These are Impressions from my recent stint with the game, which pretty much translates into a forum for my gushing enthusiasm for a great new 2d Metroid game. Don’t get me wrong, I’m very interested in Metroid Prime and like the new direction it’s taking but I’ve also been waiting years for a follow-up to Super Metroid. Fortunately, on November 18th, we’ll be getting the best of both worlds.

As graphically impressive as Metroid Prime is for the GameCube, so is Metroid Fusion for the GBA. The only graphical edge that Super Metroid might have on its handheld successor is that its picture is displayed on a TV screen. Still, despite the smaller screen, Metroid Fusion looks great, with or without a very bright light overhead. Nintendo seems to have figured out what colors show up better on the GBA’s screen and Metroid Fusion is further proof of that. Unlike a lot of other GBA games, I had no trouble with lighting as most angles provided a good view of the action.

And speaking of action, Metroid Fusion looks to be filled with it. I faced 2 mini-bosses when I played, and during the morning demo of the game, Nintendo promised that there would be many mini-bosses throughout the game. Add to that a few major bosses, a dangerous clone on the lose, and parasites that quickly seek a new host if Samus doesn’t absorb them soon after they are shot, and you can get a good idea of how action packed the game is. My fingers definitely got a nice workout anytime I entered an area filled with flying Xs.

Of course, the Metroid series was never completely about action, and, of course, Metroid Fusion isn’t either. There’s definitely plenty of exploring to do. Smart players will clear out an area of X parasites and then begin shooting/bombing to their hearts content. I only played through a small part, but the maps were just asking to have Samus run around investigate all suspicions walls, floors, and ceilings. I found a couple of small secrets (all missile containers) and really look forward to exploring more when I get my hands on a final copy.

With the many ports and re-releases of NES and SNES games on the GBA, Metroid Fusion is a breath of fresh air. It carries the same classic gameplay as it’s 2d predecessors but in an entirely new package filled with new worlds, enemies, gameplay, and a new, more prominent story. Hopefully Nintendo will eventually give Mario and Link the same treatment soon. Thankfully, we’ll have a new Samus adventure this fall. It’s certainly been a long time coming.