About this game
Metroid (1986) introduced Samus Aran — an armoured bounty hunter later revealed to be female — to the Famicom Disk System. Set on the planet Zebes, players explore non-linear caverns to destroy the Space Pirates and the parasitic Metroids. Its isolation, atmosphere, and the progressive unlocking of abilities to access new areas defined the "Metroidvania" exploration subgenre. The reveal that Samus was a woman — shown by undressing the armour at the ending depending on completion time — was one of gaming's earliest subversive character moments.
Key Features
Non-linear world design — unlike most Famicom games, the player is not guided left-to-right but must discover the path. Samus begins with minimal equipment and gains abilities (Morph Ball, Bombs, Ice Beam, Space Jump) that open previously inaccessible areas. No in-game map — players must memorise or sketch the interconnected cavern system. Multiple endings based on completion time, famously revealing Samus's identity. Password save system — the FDS version could save directly; the NES version used long alphanumeric passwords.
The Story Behind
Metroid released on the Famicom Disk System on August 6, 1986. The game was co-created by Yoshio Sakamoto and Gunpei Yokoi — Yokoi was also the creator of the Game & Watch and the Game Boy. The Metroid universe drew influence from the Alien film franchise, aiming for a darker, more atmospheric tone than Nintendo's typical output. The NES cartridge version launched in North America in August 1987 and became one of the system's most distinctive titles. The decision to make Samus female was reportedly made late in development, making the reveal even more powerful given player assumptions.
Tricks & Tales
The password "JUSTIN BAILEY" — a reference to unknown origin — bypasses the beginning and starts Samus in a pink leotard with all major items. The Kraid and Ridley mini-boss forms appear in separate areas, and defeating both is required to access Tourian (the final area). The game has no save slots in the FDS version; it saves to the floppy disk. The NES cartridge version's password save uses a 24-character password system, notorious for its length. Hirokazu Tanaka's score uses unusual harmony and atonal elements that reinforce the sense of alienation — technically pioneering for 1986 hardware.
Collector's Guide
Region & Compatibility
The original Japanese version is a Famicom Disk System release (August 1986). A later Famicom cartridge version exists. The North American NES cartridge version launched August 1987. All versions are functionally gameplay-equivalent. FDS versions require a working Famicom Disk System unit.
Maintenance Tips
FDS Metroid requires the Famicom Disk System — belt drive maintenance applies (see The Legend of Zelda entry). The NES cartridge version is more straightforward to maintain. Note that the NES version has no battery save — it uses passwords only. Verify that a listed NES Metroid cartridge is indeed complete with the original instruction manual, as the password system makes the manual highly useful. A complete FDS set with Disk Card and protective sleeve is a meaningful collector's item.
Available in our shop
Hand-cleaned and tested units shipped worldwide from Toyohashi, Japan. HP direct purchase exclusive: we include a printed shop owner's note card with every order.
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