Samus Aran
A bounty hunter who infiltrates Zebes, defeats the Space Pirates, and destroys the Metroid threat.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
D-pad | Move Samus |
|---|---|
A | Jump |
B | Fire the arm cannon |
L | Aim diagonally |
R | Use missiles when available Missile behavior depends on the selected weapon state. |
Down | Crouch or enter Morph Ball form when applicable |
Start | Open or close the pause/status interface |
Select | Open the map |
Control notes
Button functions use the standard Game Boy Advance version layout.
Some actions require a collected ability or ammunition.
How it plays
How does Metroid: Zero Mission play?
Players explore Zebes from a two-dimensional side-scrolling perspective. The main objectives are to investigate distinct regions, defeat major guardians, collect upgrades, and destroy Mother Brain. Samus can run, jump, fire beams, use missiles, roll into Morph Ball form, and search for hidden passages.
Progression is built around permanent equipment upgrades and map exploration. The game includes the main Zero Mission campaign and unlockable material connected to the original NES Metroid. Save rooms, map stations, energy tanks, missile expansions, and route shortcuts support repeated exploration.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Metroid: Zero Mission?
Map every room and return to suspicious dead ends after gaining new abilities. Hidden blocks, bomb tunnels, and narrow passages often contain missile expansions or energy tanks.
Conserve missiles for enemies and bosses that resist normal beam fire. Learn the timing of the Morph Ball, Bomb, Ice Beam, and Varia Suit upgrades, since each one changes which areas can be safely explored.
For difficult encounters, focus on learning attack patterns rather than trading damage. Save frequently, and use the map to identify unfinished regions before advancing to the next major objective.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Mother Brain
The central intelligence controlling the Space Pirate operation on Zebes and the final main-story antagonist.
Ridley
A high-ranking Space Pirate and recurring enemy who commands forces on Zebes.
Kraid
A giant Space Pirate creature guarding part of Zebes.
Metroids
Predatory alien organisms that drain energy from living targets and form the central threat of the mission.
Documented inputs
What cheats and unlocks are documented?
Documented unlockCompleting the game unlocks additional gallery content and other replay features depending on the ending and completion conditions.
Documented unlockThe original NES Metroid becomes available after completing the required Zero Mission progression and linking or using the relevant save data features supported by the version.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Scan the map for unexplored rooms and suspicious blank spaces.
- 2
Missile expansions and energy tanks make later boss encounters considerably safer.
- 3
Different endings are tied to completion performance and collected items.
Editorial context
What do players highlight?
A compact remake that preserves Metroid’s exploration while adding a clearer map, smoother controls, and a substantial post-crisis sequence.
Community discussion
What are players saying? 0