Top 10 Ranked Power-Ups in Metroid

Nintendo’s Metroid franchise has captivated audiences since its inception in 1986, established not only a series of unforgettable titles but also a genre known as Metroidvania. The concept of exploring an interconnected map and retracing steps became synonymous with the series, offering players an enriching experience that combines adventure and strategy.

Integral to the thrill of Metroid are the diverse array of power-ups, weapons, and suits that Samus Aran acquires during her quests. Some of these upgrades distinctly stand out, enhancing gameplay in unique ways.

Whether it’s the ability to shoot through walls with the Wave Beam, swing across gaps using the Grapple Beam, or perform acrobatic attacks with the Screw Attack, these enhancements redefine player interaction and combat.

10 Storm Missile

To Open Up The Doors And Your Enemies

The Storm Missile stands as one of the key weapons in Samus’ arsenal, a staple across all Metroid titles. Early in the game, it proves essential due to its superior damage output against enemies, as well as its capability to destroy specific walls.

In Metroid Dread, players can enhance their standard missiles to the Storm Missile version, allowing for locking on to multiple targets and launching a barrage of micro-missiles. This upgrade effectively prepares players for boss battles while also serving practical purposes in opening doors.

9 X-Ray Scope/Visor

What Secrets Do These Walls Hide?

X Ray Scope From Super Metroid And Visor From Metroid Prime

Exploration in Metroid can sometimes be tedious, particularly when players feel lost. To mitigate this, Super Metroid introduced the invaluable X-Ray Scope, enabling gamers to scan walls for hidden passages and destructible blocks.

This feature made its way into 3D titles as the X-Ray Visor, which further enhances gameplay by identifying invisible enemies within the area. However, its effectiveness is limited by range, necessitating strategic use in various scenarios.

8 Phantom Cloak

You Can’t See Me

Introduced in Metroid Dread, the Phantom Cloak represents one of Samus’ innovative Aeion abilities, obtained after defeating the game’s first boss, Corpius.

This ability allows Samus to refract light and become invisible at the cost of her Aeion energy. While it provides the strategic advantage of invisibility, it slows her movement and requires careful management to avoid damage when encountering enemies.

7 Flash Shift

Blue Flash Of The Zebes

The Flash Shift, another Aeion ability from Metroid Dread, adds a dynamic mobility aspect to gameplay.This power allows Samus to instantly shift her position both forward and backward within a set distance.

Notably versatile, players can utilize it up to three times in succession, making it excellent for both novices and those speedrunning the game.

6 Diffusion Missile

The One Time You Can Charge Missiles

Exclusive to Metroid Fusion, the Diffusion Missile enables players to charge ice missiles into a powerful, four-way burst attack. This unique power freezes enemies caught within its range and opens doors or destroys blocks.

Despite not returning in future titles, its scattering effect can be seen in beams found in other games of the franchise, highlighting its lasting impact.

5 Morph Ball

It’s Morphin’ Time!

Morph Ball From Metroid Prime Remastered

The Morph Ball is one of the most defining power-ups across the Metroid series, appearing in every title. This transformation allows Samus to navigate tight spaces, enhancing exploration.

Moreover, the Morph Ball comes with significant upgrades, most notably the Morph Ball bombs and the Spider Ball, which enable further navigation and strategic gameplay options.

4 Grapple Beam

Time To Swing Like Tarzan

The Grapple Beam, introduced in Super Metroid, allows Samus to latch onto surfaces and swing across gaps, reminiscent of the Hookshot from The Legend of Zelda.

Not only does this enhance mobility, but it can also eliminate smaller enemies, making it both a tactical and entertaining upgrade.

3 Space Jump

To Infinity And Beyond

The Space Jump transforms exploration, allowing Samus to leap perpetually in the air. This power becomes particularly advantageous for completionists looking to unearth hidden items or revisit challenging areas.

With this ability, players can easily navigate previously inaccessible locations, making gameplay more fruitful and enjoyable.

2 Speed Booster And Shinespark

Gotta Go Fast

The Speed Booster enhances Samus’ velocity, propelling her forward and allowing her to maneuver through terrain with ease. This ability not only aids in traversing the level quickly but also grants access to areas that require speed.

After triggering the Speed Booster, the Shinespark can be activated, enabling Samus to launch in any direction after storing speed for strategic escapes or attacks.

1 Screw Attack

Space Jump With The Power To Kill!

The Screw Attack combines the benefits of the Space Jump with deadly attacking capabilities, turning Samus into an invincible force. This iconic ability emits energy waves as she performs somersaults, effectively annihilating enemies in her vicinity.

Its significance is highlighted by its inclusion in the franchise’s logos and its absence in only a few titles, signifying its legacy within the gaming world.

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