An amazing addition to the Metroid series

Samus Aran has been missing for awhile (with the exception of the Super Smash Bros. games). Metroid Fusion, the newest game in the series, encompasses all of the classic gameplay of previous titles, while still adding a new element. Set after the events of Super Metroid (SNES), Metroid Fusion takes place on a research station, recently rocked by a mysterious explosion. This is not your average Metroid game, however. Now you must capture the parasitic life forms known as "X" from your dead enemies. If you don't act fast, the X will form into a bigger, stronger, faster enemy. The X can also mimic other life forms. There's even an X version of Samus... The game looks amazing, with graphics far surpassing those of Super Metroid. The visuals are colorful, but still retain an eerie sense. The controls are amazing, too, but holding the R button to fire missles can be a little awkward, especially shooting at an angle. Also, the sound is rich, but the music doesn't feel "Metroid-like" at times. You won't hear classic tunes too much during your adventure. Even so, all of the Energy Tank- collecting, backtracking gameplay is here. Overall, this game is truly great. However, it can be overly challenging at times, and it's too short. It also feels too linear at times to be a Metroid game (you get directions from your ship's computer in navigation rooms). Still, it's a wonderful game, that both veterans to the series and newbies will enjoy. Whether you're a fan, want to kill some time, or are simply waiting for Prime 2 or the Metroid movie, this is a worthy title.