Metroid - Zero Mission (USA)

If you’re starting your first run of Metroid: Zero Mission, use these tips to make your exploration smoother and avoid common pitfalls. First, always mark unopened paths or blocked-off areas on your map – most locked routes require new abilities you’ll unlock later, so backtracking is core to the game’s progression. Your first key ability is the Morph Ball, which lets you slip through narrow tunnels; keep an eye out for cracked walls, which can be broken open with Bombs, your next key unlock after the Morph Ball. When fighting your first major boss, Kraid, stay back and target his exposed eye to deal maximum damage, and roll into the Morph Ball in the bottom pit to dodge his spread projectiles easily. For Ridley, keep moving constantly to avoid his fireballs and dive-bomb attacks, and unload missiles into him when he lands to end the fight quickly. Prioritize collecting Energy Tanks as you explore – extra maximum health makes late-game boss fights far more forgiving, and many are hidden in secret areas you can only open with Power Bombs. If you see a large blank section on your map, drop a Power Bomb to reveal hidden walls and secret pickups. After defeating Mother Brain, the post-game Zero Suit Samus sequence leaves you weaponless and low on health, so avoid fighting enemies whenever possible. Sneak past Space Pirates through vents and narrow passages, and grab any small energy pickups you find to stay alive as you race to your escape ship. Always save your game at every save station you pass, especially right before entering a boss room, to avoid losing hard-earned progress.