The Metroid franchise is having a moment! With the recent release of Metroid Dread and the whispers of Metroid Prime 4, bounty hunter fever is at an all-time high. Sure, it might not be the flashiest series in Nintendo’s arsenal, but for millions of fans, exploring the vast universe with Samus Aran is pure gold.

So, how do these adventures stack up? Let’s blast off and see which Metroid games reign supreme, based on those sweet, sweet sales figures!

10. Metroid: Other M — ~800,000 Copies Sold

Metroid: Other M attempted to bridge the gap between Super Metroid and Metroid Fusion, focusing heavily on story and action. However, its restrictive gameplay and portrayal of Samus left many fans feeling lukewarm. Despite its shortcomings, the unique combat mechanics still deserve recognition, making it an intriguing but not essential entry for newcomers to the franchise.

9. Metroid Prime: Hunters — ~1.08 Million Copies Sold

Despite being a spinoff, Metroid Prime: Hunters carved out its own space in the franchise. Bringing first-person action to the DS and introducing new characters like Sylux, it even offered a thrilling multiplayer mode. With rumors swirling about Prime 4, the influence of Hunters might be felt once again in the future.

8. Metroid Prime 2: Echoes — ~1.1 Million Copies Sold

Metroid Prime 2: Echoes introduced players to new dimensions and the chilling presence of Dark Samus. While it didn’t quite reach the heights of its predecessor, it remains a solid addition to the Prime series, especially for fans eager to delve deeper into the lore.

7. Metroid Prime 3: Corruption — ~1.41 Million Copies Sold

Corruption is the name of the game in Metroid Prime 3, as Samus battles against former allies and a deadly alien virus. Packed with action and intrigue, it sets the stage for epic showdowns and leaves players hungry for more. With Prime 4 on the horizon, the legacy of Corruption is sure to endure.

6. Super Metroid — ~1.42 Million Copies Sold

Super Metroid is hailed as one of the greatest Metroid games of all time, beloved for its exploration and iconic boss battles. It set the standard for 2D platformers and remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate players to this day.

5. Metroid Fusion — ~1.6 Million Copies Sold

Metroid Fusion takes players on a gripping journey through a space station overrun by deadly parasites. Despite not receiving as many re-releases as Super Metroid, its intense storyline and challenging gameplay make it a must-play for fans of the series.

4. Metroid II: Return of Samus — ~1.72 Million Copies Sold

Metroid II marks Samus’s first handheld adventure, tasking players with exterminating the dangerous Metroid species. While its stripped-down gameplay may feel dated, its significance in the franchise’s history cannot be overlooked.

3. Metroid — ~2.73 Million Copies Sold

The original Metroid laid the foundation for the series, introducing players to a vast, open-ended world ripe for exploration. While its graphics may be primitive by today’s standards, its influence on the gaming landscape is undeniable.

2. Metroid Prime — ~2.84 Million Copies Sold

Metroid Prime revolutionized the series with its immersive first-person gameplay and stunning visuals. It remains a standout title in the franchise, setting the bar high for exploration and adventure.

1. Metroid Dread — ~3 Million Copies Sold

Metroid Dread takes the top spot as the best-selling Metroid game yet, captivating fans with its rich storytelling and refined gameplay. With free updates adding even more depth and challenge, it’s a worthy addition to the franchise’s legacy.

Final Thoughts

The Metroid series is experiencing a renaissance, and with Prime 4 on the horizon, the future looks brighter than ever. As fans eagerly await new adventures with Samus Aran, one thing is clear: the Metroid saga is far from over. So, suit up, fellow explorers, and prepare for more thrilling journeys through the cosmos!