Welcome to our ultimate Metroid: Samus Returns Walkthrough! Dive into the thrilling adventure of Samus Aran with this comprehensive guide that’s perfect for both newcomers and seasoned fans of the series. Our walkthrough ensures you master every aspect of this action-packed game, from the fundamentals to advanced tactics. In this guide, you’ll uncover Understanding Basic Controls, learn the best techniques for Navigating the Game World, tackle Key Locations and Their Challenges, harness Using Abilities and Weapons Effectively, and conquer the toughest foes with our Strategies for Boss Battles. Get ready to elevate your gameplay and transform into the ultimate intergalactic bounty hunter!

Understanding Basic Controls#

Getting a handle on the basic controls in Metroid: Samus Returns is your first step to becoming a legendary bounty hunter like Samus Aran. Let’s break down everything you need to know to navigate through SR388 with ease.

Moving Around#

Circle Pad/D-Pad: Use these to move Samus around the map. The Circle Pad gives you smoother movement, ideal for jumping and aiming, while the D-Pad provides precise control. You’ll be running, climbing, and morphing through tight spaces with these.

Jumping#

B Button: The B button is your primary jump button. Whether you need a small hop or a big leap, pressing B and holding it will determine how high Samus jumps. Mastering your jumps is crucial to platforming and avoiding enemy attacks.

Shooting and Combat#

Y Button (Beam): Press the Y button to shoot Samus’s beam weapon. Tapping Y will fire single shots, while holding it down shoots continuously. This is going to be your go-to move for most enemies.

Missiles: Press and hold the R button to switch to missiles. While holding R, press Y to fire. Missiles are stronger but limited, so use them wisely, especially against tougher enemies and Metroid bosses.

Free Aim Mode#

L Button: Holding the L button puts Samus into Free Aim Mode, allowing you to aim 360 degrees with the Circle Pad. This is super useful for hitting enemies from difficult angles or taking out environmental obstacles.

Dodging and Melee Counter#

X Button (Melee Counter): Press the X button right when an enemy is about to attack to perform a Melee Counter. Successfully countering an attack will stagger the enemy, giving you a small window to blast them with your beam for extra damage.

Morph Ball Mode#

Tap Down Twice: Quickly tap down on the Circle Pad or D-Pad twice to transform Samus into the Morph Ball. This is essential for exploring tight spaces and accessing hidden areas. While in Morph Ball mode, you can still drop bombs using the Y button.

Aeion Abilities#

A Button: Aeion abilities are special powers that consume Aeion energy. Tap the A button to activate your current Aeion ability. As you progress, you’ll unlock abilities like Scan Pulse and Lightning Armor, providing extra help in battle or exploration.

Switching Weapons and Abilities#

Touch Screen: The touch screen of your 3DS allows you to quickly switch between weapons and Aeion abilities. Simply tap the corresponding icon on the lower screen to change equipment or activate different powers without disrupting your gameplay rhythm.

Samus’s Suit and Upgrades#

Select Button: Press the Select button to pause and access Samus’s suit menu. Here you can see your upgrades, health status, and other vital stats. Keeping track of your upgrades and energy reserves can make a big difference in tight situations.

Using the Map#

Start Button: Press the Start button to bring up the game map. This helps in planning your route, spotting save points, and keeping an eye on areas you’ve yet to explore. Regularly checking the map can keep you from getting lost in the labyrinthine depths of SR388.

Saving Your Game#

Keep an eye out for the various save stations scattered around the map. Just walk up to one and press up on the Circle Pad or D-Pad to initiate a save. It’s a good habit to save often, so you don’t lose progress when you encounter a tough boss or tricky section.

That’s the basics covered! With these controls under your belt, you’re ready to take on the alien creatures and uncover the secrets hidden within the depths of SR388. Best of luck, bounty hunter!

Navigating the Game World#

Welcome to the labyrinthine, alien world of Planet SR388! In Metroid: Samus Returns, successfully navigating this vast, interconnected environment is crucial to surviving and thriving. Fear not, for we’ve got the lowdown on how to efficiently explore, uncover secrets, and keep your bearings.

Get to Know the Map#

Your map is your best friend. Seriously, don’t neglect it. Here are some quick tips for mastering it:

• Check Often: Always check your map when you enter a new area. This helps you remember where you’ve been and spot any hidden paths or missed rooms.
• Use Waypoints: Place markers on your map to remind you of areas you need to revisit. Found a door you can’t open yet? Mark it and come back later when you have the right equipment.
• Different Levels: The game world isn’t just flat. There are multiple levels, so always consider if you can go up or down to progress.

Master Movement and Abilities#

Samus has a suite of abilities at her disposal. Here’s the rundown of movement basics:

• Morph Ball: This allows you to roll into tight spaces. It’s essential for exploring small tunnels and finding hidden areas.
• Spider Ball: Gives Samus the ability to cling to and move along walls and ceilings. Use this to navigate past tricky vertical sections and discover concealed paths.
• Grapple Beam: Lets Samus swing across large gaps and interact with specific grapple points. Look up and around to find these points.

Combat and Environmental Hazards#

Planet SR388 is full of hostile lifeforms and hazardous environments. Here’s how to stay one step ahead:

• Scan Pulse: Use this ability to uncover breakable blocks and hidden passages in your vicinity. It’s great for giving you that extra nudge when you’re stuck.
• Conserve Missiles: Though they’re powerful, they’re also limited. Use your regular beam attacks whenever possible and save missiles for tough enemies and boss battles.
• Environment Scanning: Pay attention to the environment. Sometimes, the background will give you clues about secret paths or destructible walls.

Upgrades and Collectibles#

Finding and utilizing upgrades is key to progressing through the game. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:

• Energy Tanks: Increases your total health. Always explore thoroughly to find these, as they’re often hidden in secret rooms.
• Missile Expansions: Increase your maximum missile count. You’ll need these for tougher enemies and obstacles.
• Aeion Abilities: Unique powers that can enhance your gameplay, like the Scan Pulse. Use these wisely, as their energy depletes with use.

Backtracking#

Metroid games are known for their backtracking, and Samus Returns is no exception. Here’s how to make backtracking easier:

• Remember Locked Doors: As you gain new abilities, revisit locked doors and areas you couldn’t access before.
• Shortcuts: As you progress, you’ll unlock shortcuts that make backtracking faster and easier. These often involve activating elevators or blasting through walls.
• Revisit Old Areas: Sometimes, returning to a previously explored area with new abilities will reveal hidden secrets or needed paths forward.

Pro Tips#

• Save Stations: Use save stations frequently. They save your progress and refill your health and missiles.
• Take Your Time: Rushing through areas can make you miss important items and upgrades. Explore thoroughly to make sure you have everything you need.
• Observation Is Key: Pay attention to visual and audio cues. Sometimes, a subtle hint can lead you to a critical path or collectible.

By following these tips and regularly checking your map, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the intricate maze that is Planet SR388. Good luck, and happy exploring!

Key Locations and Their Challenges#

Get your Power Suit ready! In Metroid: Samus Returns, tackling different areas is the name of the game. Each location is unique, challenging, and packed with enemies and puzzles. Let’s dive into the standout spots you’ll need to conquer.

Chozo Ruins#

Challenges: Environmental hazards and tricky platforms#

The Chozo Ruins are where you’ll first practice your skills. Here’s what to watch for:

• Acid Pools: These will damage you slowly but surely. Use your Spider Ball to cling to safer walls.
• Falling Platforms: These sneaky guys will drop you into danger if you’re not careful. Double-check your steps.
• Enemies: Basic enemies like Zol and Gamma Metroids make their first appearance here. Don’t underestimate them!

Pro Tip: Map your route efficiently to avoid backtracking through danger zones.

Artaria#

Challenges: Power-up puzzles and dense enemy placement#

Artaria is where things really kick off. Your adventure through the caverns will include:

• Power-Ups: You’ll need Morph Ball Bombs and Charge Beam to access new areas.
• Dense Enemies: Enemies here often come in groups, so make use of your Charge Beam and missiles.
• Lava Chambers: These deal continual damage. Use your Varia Suit to traverse without taking hits.

Pro Tip: Timing is everything. Learn enemy patterns to swoop in for quick kills and minimize damage.

Brinstar#

Challenges: Vertical navigation and water hazards#

This lush, alien area will demand precision:

• Water Pools: These slow you down and leave you vulnerable. There’s nothing like getting ambushed while wading.
• Vertical Mazes: Climbing can be tricky with all the enemies around, so master the Spider Ball and wall jumps.
• Spiked Walls: These can make your life miserable. Slowly traverse with Spider Ball to avoid taking damage.

Pro Tip: Master the space jump early and practice in safer sections before tackling tougher segments.

Norfair#

Challenges: Extended heat exposure and powerful enemies#

Heatproof and deadly, Norfair’s lava-filled tunnels test even the most seasoned bounty hunters:

• Superheated Rooms: You need the Varia Suit to survive without constantly draining health.
• Deep Lava Pools: Don’t swim! Use the Grapple Beam and ice weapon to freeze foes and create stepping stones.
• Mini Bosses: Prepare to fight, as several mini-bosses guard key items and paths.

Pro Tip: Prioritize finding E-Tanks to boost your health because Norfair is unforgiving.

Tourian#

Challenges: Gritty boss fights and Metroid ambushes#

Everything’s led to this—the heart of enemy territory:

• Metroid Swarms: These guys hit hard and fast, ensuring your Ice Beam and Missiles are ready.
• Zebetite Barriers: Methodically destroy barriers to progress toward Mother Brain.
• Mother Brain Battle: She’s got several stages, including turrets and other nuisances—be ready to move and shoot non-stop.

Pro Tip: Save before you enter; it’s not easy to escape quickly if you need supplies or health boosts halfway.

Surface of SR388#

Challenges: Final obstacles and escape sequences#

After beating Mother Brain, you’re not done yet:

• Self-Destruct Sequence: Every second counts! Plan your escape route in advance and avoid combat.
• Avoiding Collapse: As the base crumbles around you, use your best speed-run tactics to zip through.

Pro Tip: Memorize the escape layout—knowing turns and enemy positions can save valuable seconds.

Every corner of SR388 holds danger and excitement as you explore. Remember to upgrade Samus’ abilities and gear meticulously to ease your journey through Metroid: Samus Returns. Happy hunting!

Using Abilities and Weapons Effectively#

Mastering Samus’s abilities and weapons in Metroid: Samus Returns is key to surviving SR388’s dangerous environments and its fearsome Metroids. Here’s a breakdown on how to make the most out of Samus’s arsenal.

Beam Weapons#

Samus’s beam weapons are your go-to for most enemies and puzzles. You start with the basic Power Beam, but soon you’ll get a variety of upgrades:

• Charge Beam: Essential for dealing more damage in a single shot and unlocking certain doors. Make sure to charge up before you encounter tougher enemies.
• Ice Beam: Freezes enemies in place, turning them into platforms. Handy for reaching new areas and immobilizing quick foes. Remember, frozen enemies don’t hurt!
• Wave Beam: This beam can shoot through walls. Use it to hit switches and enemies hiding behind barriers.
• Spazer Beam: This splits into three beams, giving you a wider range of attack. Great for crowd control and hitting multiple enemies.
• Plasma Beam: Slices through enemies and terrain. The Plasma Beam is powerful and can make quick work of tougher foes.

Missiles#

Missiles pack a punch and are particularly effective against bosses and Metroids.

• Standard Missiles: Simple, strong, and always useful. Save these for enemies that take a lot of hits or for breakable red doors.
• Super Missiles: These pack an even bigger punch. They can also break down even tougher green barriers. Use them wisely since they’re in limited supply.

Pro tip: Always restock your missiles when you find a save room or after defeating bosses. You never know when you might need them next.

Morph Ball and Bombs#

The Morph Ball and its upgrades are crucial for exploration and backtracking.

• Morph Ball: Press down twice to roll into a ball. Use this to fit through small tunnels.
• Bombs: Lay these to break hidden blocks, attack enemies, or even boost your jumps.
• Power Bombs: These clear all destructible blocks on the screen. Use them to discover hidden paths or to deal massive damage in a pinch.

Aeion Abilities#

Aeion Abilities consume Aeion energy, which you replenish by defeating enemies. Here’s how to use them strategically:

• Scan Pulse: Reveals hidden blocks and map data. Use it in new areas to save time and frustration.
• Lightning Armor: Provides temporary invulnerability and hurts any enemies that touch you. Activate it in tricky combat situations or against bosses.
• Beam Burst: Your beam becomes rapid-fire. Very useful against tough enemies or when you need to clear a room quickly.
• Phase Drift: Slows down time. Perfect for dodging fast attacks or navigating tricky platforming sections.

Grapple Beam and Space Jump#

As you progress, you’ll gain more mobility-enhancing items:

• Grapple Beam: Use this to swing across gaps or pull objects. Look for blue points you can grapple onto.
• Space Jump: Allows continuous mid-air jumps. This helps scale heights quickly and reach new areas.

Screw Attack#

One of the most powerful abilities you’ll unlock, the Screw Attack turns your jumps into deadly weapons. Practically nothing can withstand it, making it perfect for both offense and defense.

Remember, using these abilities effectively often means combining them. For example, freezing enemies with the Ice Beam and then using your Morph Ball Bombs to reach higher platforms. Or deploying Lightning Armor and then laying into a boss with Super Missiles. Get creative, stay alert, and experiment with combinations to find the strategy that works best for each situation.

By mastering each ability and weapon, Samus will be unstoppable, no matter what the depths of SR388 throw at her. Happy hunting!

Strategies for Boss Battles#

In Metroid: Samus Returns, boss battles can be intense and challenging. But don’t worry, with the right strategies, you’ll be able to take down the biggest baddies that SR388 has to offer. Here are some tips and tricks to help you conquer each boss battle with ease.

1. Know Your Enemy#

Before diving headfirst into a boss battle, take a moment to observe its attack patterns and weaknesses. Each boss has specific moves and tells. Learning these can significantly reduce the damage you take. For example:

• Arachnus: Watch for its rolling attack and stay ready to jump out of the way. It’s weak to missiles, so keep those ready.
• Diggernaut: When it charges at you, aim for the exposed parts to dish out significant damage.

2. Use the Right Weapons#

Each boss has a preferred weapon type that inflicts more damage. Don’t just blast everything with your beam cannon—sometimes missiles or special beam types like the Ice Beam or Spazer are more effective. Make sure to:

• Experiment: If one weapon isn’t doing much damage, switch it up!
• Upgrade: Collect upgrades and expansions to beef up your arsenal as you progress.

3. Dodge and Counter-Attack#

Staying mobile and dodging enemy attacks is crucial. Almost every boss has a telegraphed attack that you can learn to predict and avoid with practice. Make use of Samus’s agility:

• Space Jump: This move lets you stay off the ground and avoid ground-based attacks.
• Counter: Some bosses will have moments where they can be countered with a well-timed melee. Watch for the glint or specific sound cue.

4. Mind Your Surroundings#

Boss arenas are designed with purpose, often giving you tools to help in the battle. Look around:

• Safe Zones: Some areas might shield you from certain attacks.
• Platforms: Use these to gain height advantage or keep distance from the boss.

5. Health and Ammo Management#

Resource management is crucial. Boss battles can drain your health and ammo reserves quickly, so:

• Come Prepared: Before tackling a boss, make sure your health and missile count are maxed out. Hunt around for extra pickups if you’re low.
• Save Stations: These stations often have a save point nearby. Always save before entering a boss arena.

6. Analyze and Adapt#

If you find yourself getting stuck in a loop of defeat, take a breather. Step back and analyze what’s going wrong. Perhaps:

• Change Tactics: Maybe there’s a different weapon that could work better.
• Learn from Mistakes: Each failure is a chance to understand the boss’s pattern better. Adapt your strategy accordingly.

7. Specific Boss Tips#

Here are a few quick tips for some of the tougher bosses:

• Omega Metroids:

  • Weak Point: Their belly glows when it’s time to strike. Use missiles or charged shots.
  • Dodge Attacks: Watch out for the swinging claws. Always be ready to jump.

• Proteus Ridley:

  • Phase Awareness: As the battle progresses, Ridley changes tactics. Adjust your strategy based on whether he’s flying or grounded.
  • Target Weakness: Focus on Ridley’s chest after he performs certain attacks.

Conclusion#

Each boss in Metroid: Samus Returns is like a puzzle waiting to be solved. By staying observant, using the right tools, and knowing when to dodge or attack, you’ll turn these formidable foes into mere stepping stones on your journey. So gear up, stay sharp, and show those bosses why Samus Aran is the universe’s greatest bounty hunter!