Metroid II - Return of Samus (GB)

In Metroid II - Return of Samus, players control the intergalactic bounty hunter Samus Aran on her mission to eradicate the entire Metroid species from planet SR388. This is a 2D side-scrolling action-adventure game, renowned for its non-linear gameplay that encourages exploration and backtracking through previously visited areas.

Gameplay revolves around exploring a vast network of caves, collecting power-ups for Samus to unlock new areas and enhance her combat abilities. Typical upgrades include the Morph Ball, allowing Samus to curl into a ball and pass through narrow passages; Missiles for opening locked doors and dealing significant damage; the Spider Ball for clinging to walls; and various suit upgrades. The primary objective is to hunt down and eliminate Metroid creatures. Each time a certain number of Metroids are destroyed, an earthquake occurs, lowering the lava levels and opening new paths deeper into the planet.

Metroids appear in various evolutionary forms, from the familiar larval Metroid to larger, more dangerous forms like Alpha Metroid, Gamma Metroid, Zeta Metroid, and ultimately the Queen Metroid. Each form has unique attack patterns and weaknesses, requiring players to adapt their strategies. The game's save system is implemented through fixed save points. Metroid II laid the groundwork for many signature gameplay elements of the series, creating a tense and challenging experience on the Game Boy platform.