Nintendo releases Metroid for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), introducing players to the character Samus Aran and setting the foundation for the Metroid series.
Metroid II is released for the Game Boy, continuing the adventures of Samus Aran and expanding the Metroid universe.
Super Metroid launches on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) and is widely acclaimed for its expansive world and gameplay mechanics, becoming a classic in the series.
Metroid Fusion is released for the Game Boy Advance, providing a more story-driven experience within the Metroid franchise.
The first-person adventure Metroid Prime is released for the Nintendo GameCube, transitioning the series into 3D and receiving critical acclaim.
Metroid Prime 2: Echoes is released for the GameCube, continuing the 3D adventures of Samus Aran with a darker tone.
Metroid Prime 3: Corruption launches on the Nintendo Wii, introducing motion controls to the series.
Metroid: Other M is released for the Nintendo Wii, focusing on a more narrative-driven approach to the series.
Metroid: Samus Returns, a remake of Metroid II, is released for the Nintendo 3DS, modernizing the classic game for a new generation.
Metroid Dread launches worldwide for the Nintendo Switch, concluding the story arc begun in earlier games and receiving positive reviews.
Samus's home colony, K-2L, is attacked by Space Pirates, led by Ridley, resulting in the death of her parents. She is raised and trained by the Chozo.
Samus is sent to the planet Zebes to eliminate the Space Pirate threat and the Metroid creatures being used as biological weapons.
Samus destroys Mother Brain, the central computer controlling the Space Pirates on Zebes, and escapes as the planet self-destructs.
Samus is sent to the Metroid homeworld SR388 to exterminate the Metroid species threatening the galaxy.
Samus discovers a young Metroid larva during her mission on SR388 and spares its life, naming it 'The Little One'.
The Space Pirates hijack the captive Metroid larva, leading Samus to infiltrate their base on Zebes again to rescue it.
Samus defeats Ridley and the revived Mother Brain to stop the Space Pirates' plans.
