View source for Metroid Fusion

{{Short description|2002 video game}}
{{Redirect|Metroid 4|the Nintendo Switch game|Metroid Prime 4: Beyond}}
{{Good article}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=February 2016}}
{{Infobox video game
| image = Metroid Fusion box.jpg
| alt = Samus Aran in the Fusion Suit kneels down and faces the viewer.
| caption = North American box art
| developer = [[Nintendo R&D1]]
| publisher = [[Nintendo]]
| director = [[Yoshio Sakamoto]] <br /> Takehiko Hosokawa
| producer = Takehiro Izushi
| designer = Tomoyoshi Yamane <br /> Takehiko Hosokawa
| programmer = Katsuya Yamano
| artist = Tomoyoshi Yamane
| writer = Yoshio Sakamoto
| composer = {{unbulleted list|Minako Hamano|Akira Fujiwara}}
| series = ''[[Metroid]]''
| engine = 
| platforms = [[Game Boy Advance]] <!-- DO NOT add "Virtual Console". VC is software emulation; see [[Template:Infobox video game#platforms]] -->
| released = {{Video game release|NA|November 18, 2002|EU|November 22, 2002|AUS|November 29, 2002|JP|February 14, 2003}} <!-- DO NOT include emulated releases (i.e. Virtual Console). See above link. -->
| genre = [[Action-adventure]]
| modes = [[Single-player]]
| title = Metroid Fusion
}}

{{Nihongo foot|'''''Metroid Fusion'''''|メトロイドフュージョン|Metoroido Fyūjon|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha}}{{Efn|Also known as '''''Metroid 4''''',<ref>{{cite news | last=Park | first=Gene | title=How to catch up on Metroid, the classic series shunned by Nintendo | newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] | date=June 22, 2021 | url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/video-games/2021/06/22/metroid-how-to-start-nintendo/ | access-date=August 20, 2025}}</ref> a name used in the game's opening cutscene.<ref name="game-intro">{{cite video game|title=Metroid Fusion |developer=[[Nintendo R&D1]] |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |date =November 18, 2002 |platform=[[Game Boy Advance]] |scene=Opening |quote=Nintendo Presents / METROID 4}}</ref>}} is a 2002 [[action-adventure game]]<ref name="Inverse-2023">{{Cite web |date=2023-11-19 |title=21 Years Later, The Most Underrated Metroid Game Is Still Worth Playing |url=https://www.inverse.com/gaming/metroid-fusion-21-year-retrospective |access-date=2024-06-27 |website=Inverse |language=en |archive-date=August 17, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240817143330/https://www.inverse.com/gaming/metroid-fusion-21-year-retrospective |url-status=live}}</ref> developed and published by [[Nintendo]] for the [[Game Boy Advance]]. It is the fourth main installment in the ''Metroid'' franchise. Players control the bounty hunter [[Samus Aran]], who investigates a space station infected with shapeshifting parasites known as X. Along with the [[GameCube]] game ''[[Metroid Prime]]'', ''Fusion'' marked the return of the ''Metroid'' series after an eight-year hiatus following ''[[Super Metroid]]'' (1994).

Like previous ''Metroid'' games, ''Fusion'' is a [[side-scrolling]] game with [[platform game|platform jumping]], shooting, and puzzle elements. It introduces mission-based progression that guides the player through certain areas. ''Fusion'' can be linked to ''Prime'' using the [[GameCube – Game Boy Advance link cable]] to unlock additional content for ''Prime''.

''Fusion'' was acclaimed for its gameplay, controls, graphics and music, though its shorter length and greater linearity received some criticism. It received awards including "[[D.I.C.E. Award for Mobile Game of the Year|Handheld Game of the Year]]" from the [[Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences]], "Best Game Boy Advance Adventure Game" from ''[[IGN]]'', and "Best Action Game on Game Boy Advance" from ''[[GameSpot]]''. It was rereleased on the [[Nintendo 3DS]]'s [[Virtual Console]] in 2011 as part of the 3DS Ambassador Program, the [[Wii U]]'s Virtual Console in 2014, and the [[Nintendo Classics]] service in 2023. A sequel, ''[[Metroid Dread]]'', was released in 2021 for the [[Nintendo Switch]].

==Gameplay==
[[File:Metroid Fusion X-Boss .png|thumb|left|Samus Aran fights the Nightmare boss in its Core-X form.|alt=A video game screenshot of a person in a powered exoskeleton firing a missile at a monster.]]

''Metroid Fusion'' is an [[action-adventure game]]<ref name="Inverse-2023" /> in which the player controls [[Samus Aran]]. Like previous games in the series, ''Fusion'' is set in a large [[Linearity (video games)|open-ended]] world with elevators that connect regions, which each in turn contains rooms separated by doors. Samus opens most doors by shooting at them, while some only open after she reaches a certain point. ''Fusion'' is more linear than other ''[[Metroid]]'' games due to its focus on storyline; for example, ''Fusion'' introduces Navigation Rooms, which tell the player where to go.<ref name="manual2">{{cite book |url=https://cdn02.nintendo-europe.com/media/downloads/games_8/emanuals/game_boy_advance_8/Manual_GameBoyAdvance_MetroidFusion_EN_DE_FR_ES_IT.pdf |title=Metroid Fusion Instruction Booklet |publisher=[[Nintendo of Europe]] |year=2002 |pages=13 |access-date=October 1, 2015 |archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/6bxOYO0WG?url=https://cdn02.nintendo-europe.com/media/downloads/games_8/emanuals/game_boy_advance_8/Manual_GameBoyAdvance_MetroidFusion_EN_DE_FR_ES_IT.pdf |archive-date=October 1, 2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

The gameplay involves solving puzzles to uncover secrets, [[platform game|platform jumping]], shooting enemies, and searching for [[power-up]]s that allow Samus to reach new areas. Samus can absorb X Parasites, which restore [[health (game mechanism)|health]], missiles, and bombs. Power-ups are obtained by downloading them in Data Rooms or absorbing a Core-X, which appears after defeating a [[boss (video game)|boss]].<ref name="manual">{{cite book |url=https://cdn02.nintendo-europe.com/media/downloads/games_8/emanuals/game_boy_advance_8/Manual_GameBoyAdvance_MetroidFusion_EN_DE_FR_ES_IT.pdf |title=Metroid Fusion Instruction Booklet |publisher=[[Nintendo of Europe]] |year=2002 |access-date=October 1, 2015 |archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/6bxOYO0WG?url=https://cdn02.nintendo-europe.com/media/downloads/games_8/emanuals/game_boy_advance_8/Manual_GameBoyAdvance_MetroidFusion_EN_DE_FR_ES_IT.pdf |archive-date=October 1, 2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref> New features include the ability to grab ledges and climb ladders.<ref name="gamespot" />

The player can use the [[GameCube – Game Boy Advance link cable]] to connect to ''Fusion'' and unlock features in ''[[Metroid Prime]]'':<ref name="mp-manual">{{cite book|url=https://www.nintendo.com/consumer/gameslist/manuals/GCN_Metroid_Prime.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170510102407/http://www.nintendo.com/consumer/gameslist/manuals/GCN_Metroid_Prime.pdf |title=Metroid Prime Instruction Booklet |publisher=[[Nintendo of America]] |year=2002 |access-date=October 4, 2015 |archive-date=May 10, 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> after completing ''Prime'', they can unlock Samus's Fusion Suit,<ref>{{cite web |title=Secrets - Metroid Prime Wiki Guide |url=https://www.ign.com/wikis/metroid-prime/Secrets |website=IGN |date=March 26, 2012 |publisher=Ziff Davis |access-date=June 9, 2021 |archive-date=June 9, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609174801/https://www.ign.com/wikis/metroid-prime/Secrets |url-status=live}}</ref> and after completing ''Fusion'', they can unlock an [[emulated]] version of the [[Metroid (video game)|first ''Metroid'' game]].<ref name="MP1Manual-PAL">{{cite book |title=Metroid Prime Instruction Booklet |section=Play the Original NES ''Metroid'' on Your Nintendo GameCube! |pages=30–31 |date=March 21, 2003 |publisher=[[Nintendo of Europe]] |id=IM-DOL-GM8P-UKV}}</ref> In ''[[Metroid: Zero Mission]]'' (2004), players can connect to ''Fusion'' using the [[Game Boy Advance Game Link Cable]] to unlock a ''Fusion'' picture gallery,<ref name="MZM Manual">{{cite book|url=https://cdn02.nintendo-europe.com/media/downloads/games_8/emanuals/game_boy_advance_8/Manual_GameBoyAdvance_MetroidZeroMission_EN_DE_FR_ES_IT.pdf#page=12 |archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/6eX1jFmAz?url=https://cdn02.nintendo-europe.com/media/downloads/games_8/emanuals/game_boy_advance_8/Manual_GameBoyAdvance_MetroidZeroMission_EN_DE_FR_ES_IT.pdf |title=Metroid: Zero Mission Instruction Booklet |publisher=[[Nintendo of Europe]] |page=22 |year=2004 |access-date=January 14, 2016 |archive-date=January 14, 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> which includes its ending images.<ref name="MZM Manual" />

==Plot==
<!-- This plot summary is meant to be a BRIEF overview — it is detailed enough as is. If you wish to expand it or remove certain parts of it, please use the talk page to discuss your proposed changes. -->
{{Metroid Story Order}}
Bounty hunter [[Samus Aran]] explores the surface of the planet SR388 with a survey crew from Biologic Space Laboratories (BSL). She is attacked by [[parasitic organisms]] known as X. On returning to the BSL station, Samus loses consciousness, and her ship crashes. The BSL ship she was escorting recovers her body and transfers it to the [[Galactic Federation (Metroid)|Galactic Federation]] for medical treatment, who discover that the X has infected Samus' [[central nervous system]]. They cure her with a vaccine made from cells taken from the infant Metroid that Samus adopted on SR388.<ref name="prime_fusion_guide">{{cite book |first1=David |last1=Cassidy |first2=Mark |last2=Cohen |first3=Tri |last3=Pham |date=2002 |title=Metroid Prime and Metroid Fusion: Prima's Official Strategy Guide |location=United States |publisher=[[Prima Games]] |isbn=0-7615-3959-X}}</ref>{{rp|88}} The vaccine gives her the ability to absorb the X [[Cell nucleus|nuclei]] for nourishment,<ref name=manual />{{rp|8}} but burdens her with the Metroids' vulnerability to cold.<ref>{{cite video game |title=Metroid Fusion |developer=[[Nintendo R&D1]] |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |date=2002 |platform=[[Game Boy Advance]] |level=Sector 2 (TRO) - Navigation Room |quote='''Computer:''' You are still very vulnerable to cold, an unexpected side-effect of the Metroid vaccine. Like Metroids, you can be frozen by an Ice Beam.}}</ref> Portions of Samus's infected Power Suit are sent to the BSL station for examination,<ref>{{cite video game |title=Metroid Fusion |developer=[[Nintendo R&D1]] |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |date=2002 |platform=[[Game Boy Advance]] |scene=Opening |quote='''Samus:''' During my surgery, the research team sent the last batch of creatures we captured there, as well as the infected pieces of my Power Suit.}}</ref> although the suit was too integrated with her body to remove entirely during surgery.<ref>{{cite video game |title=Metroid Fusion |developer=[[Nintendo R&D1]] |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |date=2002 |platform=[[Game Boy Advance]] |scene=Opening |quote='''Samus:''' It then came to light that the organic components of my Power Suit had become so integrated with my system that it could not be removed while I was unconscious.}}</ref>

When Samus recovers consciousness, she is sent to investigate an explosion at the BSL station.<ref>{{cite video game |title=Metroid Fusion |developer=[[Nintendo R&D1]] |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |date=2002 |platform=[[Game Boy Advance]] |scene=Opening |quote='''Samus:''' After regaining consciousness, I learned that an unexplained explosion rocked the station. For some reason, this awoke a nameless fear in my heart, and now I am being sent there to investigate.}}</ref> The mission is overseen by her new gunship's computer, whom Samus nicknames "Adam" after her former [[commanding officer]], Adam Malkovich.<ref name=manual />{{rp|13}} Samus learns that the X parasites can replicate their hosts' appearances,<ref>{{cite video game |title=Metroid Fusion |developer=[[Nintendo R&D1]] |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |date=2002 |platform=[[Game Boy Advance]] |level=Main Deck - Navigation Room |quote='''Computer:''' The gelatinous X parasites invade and rapidly reproduce, killing the host creature. They also absorb DNA and use it to mimic the host.}}</ref> and that the X have infected the station with the help of the [[SA-X]], an X parasite mimicking Samus at full power.<ref>{{cite video game |title=Metroid Fusion |developer=[[Nintendo R&D1]] |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |date=2002 |platform=[[Game Boy Advance]] |level=Sector 2 (TRO) - Navigation Room |quote='''Computer:''' Samus, it's an X mimicking you. I have named it the SA-X. I believe the SA-X came from the capsule containing your infected suit parts. It used a Power Bomb to escape the Quarantine Bay. That explosion breached the capsules containing all the X that started this disaster. But the SA-X is definitely our biggest worry right now. The SA-X is mimicking you at full power. You can't face it.}}</ref>

Samus avoids the SA-X and explores the space station,<ref name="prime_fusion_guide" />{{rp|98, 107}} defeating larger creatures infected by the X to recover her abilities.<ref name="GTRetrospective">{{cite AV media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HYNRbq1CmI |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/2HYNRbq1CmI |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|title=Metroid Retrospective Part 2|publisher=[[Defy Media]]|time=5:40–10:50|access-date=June 21, 2016|format=video|work=[[GameTrailers]]}}{{cbignore}}</ref> She discovers a restricted lab containing Metroids, and the SA-X sets off the labs' auto-destruct sequence while attacking the released Metroids, who also devour the SA-X. Samus escapes, but the lab is destroyed.<ref name="prime_fusion_guide" />{{rp|135–136}} The computer berates Samus for ignoring orders and admits that the Federation was secretly using the lab to breed Metroids. It also reveals that the SA-X has [[asexual reproduction|asexually reproduced]], subsequently [[cloning]] itself. The computer advises Samus to leave the station.<ref>{{cite video game |title=Metroid Fusion |developer=[[Nintendo R&D1]] |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |date=2002 |platform=[[Game Boy Advance]] |level=Restricted Zone - Navigation Room |quote='''Computer:'''  Samus, you shouldn't have done that. You ignored your orders. You may have to pay a price for that quite soon... {{bracket|...}} As you can see, the Federation has been secretly working on a Metroid breeding program. For peaceful application only, of course. {{bracket|...}} You know that the X reproduce by asexual division. Because of this mechanism, there are now no fewer than 10 SA-X aboard the station. {{bracket|...}} Samus, you must go. Get out. If you stay too long, the SA-X will destroy you.}}</ref>

On her way to her ship, the computer orders Samus to leave the rest of the investigation to the Federation, which plans to capture SA-X for military purposes.<ref>{{cite video game |title=Metroid Fusion |developer=[[Nintendo R&D1]] |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |date=2002 |platform=[[Game Boy Advance]] |level=Sector 1 (SRX) - Navigation Room |quote='''Computer:''' Samus, we're done here. Leave the rest to the Federation... {{bracket|...}} The Federation has taken an interest in the X and SA-X. They believe this life-form had endless potential applications. {{bracket|...}} / '''Samus:''' This is madness! They won't stand a chance here! This station will devour them! What could be worth the risk!? / '''Computer:''' Capturing the SA-X, of course.}}</ref> Knowing that the X would only infect the arriving Federation troops and absorb their spacefaring knowledge to conquer the universe, Samus states her intention to destroy the station.<ref>{{cite video game |title=Metroid Fusion |developer=[[Nintendo R&D1]] |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |date=2002 |platform=[[Game Boy Advance]] |level=Sector 1 (SRX) - Navigation Room |quote='''Samus:''' As soon as the Federation ships land, the X will overwhelm them and absorb the knowledge and power of their occupants. The X are just waiting for the hunt to begin, and then they'll spread across the universe. Galactic civilization will end. {{bracket|...}} The X must not leave here. I must destroy them all before the Federation arrives. This station has a self-destruct mechanism. I must use it to destroy the X here and on the planet. I must send them to oblivion. Them, the station, and myself, if I have to.}}</ref> Although the computer initially intends to stop Samus, she calls it "Adam", and reveals that Adam died saving her life.<ref>{{cite video game |title=Metroid Fusion |developer=[[Nintendo R&D1]] |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |date=2002 |platform=[[Game Boy Advance]] |level=Sector 1 (SRX) - Navigation Room |quote='''Computer:''' I have been ordered to confine you until the ships arrive. / '''Samus:''' Don't let them do this. Can't you see what will happen, Adam? / {{bracket|...}} / '''Computer:''' ...Who is Adam? / '''Samus:''' ...A friend of mine. / {{bracket|...}} / '''Computer:''' Did this "Adam" care for you? Would he sit in a safe Command Room and order you to die? / '''Samus:''' He would understand that some must live and some must die... He knew what it meant. He made that sacrifice once. /  '''Computer:''' So, he chose life for you? Our fair warrior, Samus Aran... Your Adam gave his life so that you might keep yours... For the sake of the universe...}}</ref> The computer suggests that she should alter the station's [[propulsion]] to intercept with SR388 and destroy the planet along with all X populations.<ref>{{cite video game |title=Metroid Fusion |developer=[[Nintendo R&D1]] |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |date=2002 |platform=[[Game Boy Advance]] |level=Sector 1 (SRX) - Navigation Room |quote='''Adam:''' ...If you were to alter the station's orbit, then you might be able to include the planet in the vaporization field of the self-destruct detonation. {{bracket|...}} You would have to start the propulsion sequence now. Before the Federation arrives. Samus, this is your last mission. Go to the Operations Room and adjust the station's orbit path to intercept SR388. Then return to your ship and escape. Move quickly, and stay alive. That's an order! Any objections, Lady?}}</ref> Samus realizes that the computer is the consciousness of Adam, uploaded after his death.<ref>{{cite video game |title=Metroid Fusion |developer=[[Nintendo R&D1]] |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |date=2002 |platform=[[Game Boy Advance]] |scene=Ending |quote='''Samus:''' That perfect military mind... The wisdom of Adam Malkovich continued to serve even after death. Until today, I had no idea that the minds of leaders and scientists were frequently uploaded to computers. My incredible reunion with Adam may have saved the universe...}}</ref> En route to initiate the propulsion sequence, an SA-X confronts Samus, who defeats it and sets the BSL station on a collision course with SR388. As Samus prepares to leave, she is attacked by an Omega Metroid. The SA-X appears and attacks it, but is destroyed; Samus absorbs its nucleus and uses her newly restored Ice Beam to destroy the Omega Metroid.<ref name="prime_fusion_guide" />{{rp|141–143}} Her ship arrives, piloted by creatures Samus rescued from the station's Habitation Deck. They escape before the station crashes into the planet, destroying it.<ref>{{cite video game |title=Metroid Fusion |developer=[[Nintendo R&D1]] |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |date=2002 |platform=[[Game Boy Advance]] |scene=Ending |quote='''Samus:''' Just one detail still bothers me. This ship can only be started manually. Yet, before I faced the Omega Metroid, the ship moved on its own, guided by someone's hands. Is it possible? Adam...? / '''Adam:''' Lady, what's troubling you? You wonder how I started the ship? Just think about it. They lent me a hand...}}</ref>

==Development==
[[File:Metroid4 screen006.jpg|thumb|right|Image from an early version presented at [[E3 2001]]|alt=A video game screenshot of a person in a powered exoskeleton firing a beam.]]
[[Nintendo]] confirmed a ''Metroid'' game for the [[Game Boy Advance]] in March 2001,<ref>{{cite web |title=Nintendo Confirms New Metroid |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2001/03/24/nintendo-confirms-new-metroid |website=IGN |publisher=Ziff Davis |access-date=June 9, 2021 |date=March 24, 2001}}</ref> and showed early footage at the 2001 [[E3]] convention under the name ''Metroid IV''.<ref name="IGN-2001">{{cite web |date=May 18, 2001 |title=E3: Metroid IV is Here |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2001/05/18/e3-metroid-iv-is-here |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609174800/https://www.ign.com/articles/2001/05/18/e3-metroid-iv-is-here |archive-date=June 9, 2021 |access-date=June 9, 2021 |website=[[IGN]] |publisher=Ziff Davis}}</ref> The footage showed Samus in a dark suit, running on walls and ceilings, with simpler, more "[[Game Boy Color]]-like" graphics.<ref name="nwr-preview">{{cite web |last1=Lake |first1=Max |title=Metroid Fusion Preview |url=https://www.nintendoworldreport.com/preview/3435/metroid-fusion-game-boy-advance |website=Nintendo World Report |access-date=June 9, 2021 |date=August 26, 2002 |archive-date=August 17, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240817143418/https://www.nintendoworldreport.com/preview/3435/metroid-fusion-game-boy-advance |url-status=live}}</ref>{{Failed verification|date=August 2025}} ''[[IGN]]'' wrote that the video was disappointing, describing it as "dark" and "muddy".<ref name="IGN-2001" /> At E3 2002, Nintendo demonstrated the game again, now under the title ''Metroid Fusion'', with updated graphics. ''IGN'' awarded ''Metroid Fusion'' Best of Show and Best Action Game.<ref>{{cite web |title=IGNpocket's Best of E3 2002 Awards |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2002/05/29/ignpockets-best-of-e3-2002-awards |website=IGN |publisher=Ziff Davis |access-date=June 9, 2021 |date=May 29, 2002 |archive-date=October 21, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211021052708/https://www.ign.com/articles/2002/05/29/ignpockets-best-of-e3-2002-awards |url-status=live}}</ref>

''Metroid Fusion'' was developed by [[Nintendo Research & Development 1]] (R&D1), the same team that created the 1994 [[Super Nintendo]] game ''[[Super Metroid]]''.<ref name="ign-handson">{{cite web |last1=Harris |first1=Craig |title=Metroid Fusion Hands-on |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2002/08/22/metroid-fusion-hands-on |website=IGN |publisher=Ziff Davis |access-date=June 9, 2021 |date=August 22, 2002 |archive-date=November 17, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071117061819/http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/368/368710p1.html |url-status=live}}</ref> The gameplay, screen layout, and controls mimic those of ''Super Metroid'', with enhancements. The story is revealed through text and close-ups.<ref name="ign-handson" /> It was written and directed by the series designer, [[Yoshio Sakamoto]], and produced by Takehiro Izushi.<ref name="Credits">{{cite video game |title=Metroid Fusion |developer=Nintendo R&D1 |publisher=Nintendo |date=November 18, 2002 |platform=[[Game Boy Advance]] |scene=Staff credits}}</ref>

Sakamoto decided to create an original story instead of remaking a ''Metroid'' game because he wanted to do "something really unprecedented", and looked forward to the response.<ref>{{cite web|access-date=January 4, 2009 |url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/95708/exclusive-metroid-designer-yoshio-sakamoto-speaks/ |title=Exclusive: Metroid designer Yoshio Sakamoto speaks! |work=Computer and Video Games |date=September 1, 2003 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120630195506/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/95708/exclusive-metroid-designer-yoshio-sakamoto-speaks/ |archive-date=June 30, 2012}}</ref> ''Fusion'' introduces gameplay mechanics such as a more direct, almost mission-based structure that supports the player to explore areas. Objectives are also flexible in how they can be completed, acting "more as a guide for what the player should do instead of giving a completely blank map and saying 'Here you go, figure out what to do and how to do it{{'"}}.<ref name="nwr-preview"/>

According to the lead programmer, Katsuya Yamano, Nintendo R&D1 did not consult previous ''Metroid'' games for programming techniques, and instead used their 2001 game ''[[Wario Land 4]]'' as a reference. Samus's suit design was revamped; the canonical explanation is that this was because an X Parasite had attacked Samus and made her lose all her abilities. Missiles were expanded with two "upgrades", much like the various beam upgrades: the Ice Missile which has a similar effect to the Ice Beam, and the Diffusion Missile which greatly increases the blast radius. Other minor abilities were added to ''Fusion'', such as climbing walls and ceilings. The health and missile drops are replaced by X Parasites released after defeating enemies.<ref name="StaffInterview">{{cite interview|url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/nom/0303/32/index.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150721232322/http://www.nintendo.co.jp/nom/0303/32/index.html |script-title=ja:メトロイドフュージョン 制作スタッフ インタビュー |type=Interview: Transcript |language=ja |last=Hosokawa |first=Takehiko |last2=Yamano |first2=Katsuya |last3=Yamane |first3=Tomomi |last4=Hamano |first4=Minako |date=March 2003 |issue=56 |work=Nintendo Online Magazine |publisher=[[Nintendo]] |access-date=August 20, 2015 |archive-date=July 21, 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>

The music was composed by Minako Hamano and Akira Fujiwara<!--Do not link to the historian [[Akira Fujiwara]], who is a different person that happens to share the same name-->.<ref name="Credits" /> According to Hamano, Sakamoto wanted her to create music in accordance with Adam's dialogue. Hamano aimed for "serious, ambient music rather than melody" because she did not want the exploration themes to be "annoying". She also rearranged [[jingle]]s from ''Super Metroid'' for ''Fusion''. As Nintendo of America wanted the developers to look for "Hollywood-like" [[voice actor]]s, Hamano added a voice of an announcer. The developers planned to feature voice acting, but the voices were only used for warning announcements due to [[ROM cartridge]] limitations.<ref name="StaffInterview" />

==Release==
''Metroid Fusion'' was released in North America on November 18, 2002,<ref name="gamespot-handson">{{cite web |access-date=February 6, 2016 |url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/hands-onmetroid-fusion/1100-2878169/ |title=Hands-on Metroid Fusion |date=August 22, 2002 |last=Varanini |first=Giancarlo |website=[[GameSpot]] |publisher=[[Red Ventures]] |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140519114140/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/hands-onmetroid-fusion/1100-2878169/ |archive-date=May 19, 2014}}</ref> in Europe on November 22,<ref>{{cite web |title=Metroid Fusion |url=https://www.gamespot.com/games/metroid-fusion/ |website=GameSpot |publisher=Red Ventures |access-date=June 9, 2021 |archive-date=June 17, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210617130828/https://www.gamespot.com/games/metroid-fusion/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Australia on November 29,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://nintendo.com.au/gba/games/metroidfusion.php|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030808161906/http://nintendo.com.au/gba/games/metroidfusion.php|archive-date=August 8, 2003|title=Metroid Fusion|publisher=[[Nintendo Australia]]|access-date=August 10, 2009}}</ref> Japan on February 14, 2003,<ref name="Famitsu">{{cite magazine |url=http://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=9975 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151020122024/http://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=9975 |url-status=live |access-date=October 10, 2015 |archive-date=October 20, 2015 |script-title=ja:メトロイドフュージョン まとめ [GBA] |language=ja |magazine=[[Famitsu]] |publisher=[[Kadokawa Corporation]]}}</ref> and China on March 2, 2006.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ique.com/games/G_yoshi_metroidrh.htm |script-title=zh:《耀西岛》《密特罗德-融合》3月2日携手上市！|publisher=iQue |access-date=March 1, 2006 |language=zh |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100610221729/http://www.ique.com/games/G_yoshi_metroidrh.htm |archive-date=June 10, 2010}}</ref> Using a [[GameCube – Game Boy Advance link cable]], ''Fusion'' can be connected to ''[[Metroid Prime]]'' for the [[GameCube]] released on the same day as ''Fusion'' in North America.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Varanini |first=Giancarlo |date=October 25, 2002 |title=Metroid Prime, Fusion connection revealed |url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/metroid-prime-fusion-connection-revealed/1100-2895768/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140326045655/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/metroid-prime-fusion-connection-revealed/1100-2895768/ |archive-date=March 26, 2014 |access-date=April 10, 2007 |publisher=[[GameSpot]]}}</ref>

A two-disc soundtrack album, ''Metroid Prime & Fusion Original Soundtracks'', was published by [[Scitron]] on June 18, 2003. The second disc contains tracks from ''Fusion'', along with an additional track arranged by [[Shinji Hosoe]].<ref>{{cite web|title=''Metroid Prime & Fusion Original Soundtracks''|url=http://www.squareenixmusic.com/albums/m/metroidprime.shtml|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101119085801/http://www.squareenixmusic.com/albums/m/metroidprime.shtml|archive-date=November 19, 2010|access-date=October 10, 2015|work=Square Enix Music Online}}</ref>

''Metroid Fusion'' was released on the [[Nintendo 3DS]] [[Virtual Console]] in December 2011 as part of the "3DS Ambassadors" program, one of ten Game Boy Advance games for those who purchased their 3DS consoles before a price drop.<ref name="Ambassadors">{{cite web |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-12-14-nintendo-3ds-ambassador-gba-games-out-friday |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160518032622/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-08-12-3ds-ambassador-entry-still-possible |title=3DS Ambassador entry still possible |first=Tom |last=Phillips |work=[[Eurogamer]] |date=December 14, 2011 |access-date=August 5, 2017 |archive-date=May 18, 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> ''Metroid Fusion'' was among the first three Game Boy Advance games to be released on the [[Wii U]] Virtual Console in April 2014.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Hinkle |first1=Dave |title=Wii U Virtual Console gets first Game Boy Advance games in April |url=https://www.engadget.com/2014-02-13-wii-u-virtual-console-gets-first-game-boy-advance-games-in-april.html |website=Engadget |publisher=Verizon Media |access-date=June 9, 2021 |date=February 13, 2004 |archive-date=June 9, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609174800/https://www.engadget.com/2014-02-13-wii-u-virtual-console-gets-first-game-boy-advance-games-in-april.html |url-status=live}}</ref> It was released on the [[Nintendo Classics]] service in March 2023.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Phillips |first=Tom |date=2023-03-03 |title=Metroid Fusion joins Nintendo Switch Online next week |language=en-gb |work=[[Eurogamer]] |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/metroid-fusion-joins-nintendo-switch-online-next-week |access-date=2023-03-03 |archive-date=March 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230303141321/https://www.eurogamer.net/metroid-fusion-joins-nintendo-switch-online-next-week |url-status=live}}</ref> A sequel, ''[[Metroid Dread]]'', was released in 2021 for the [[Nintendo Switch]].<ref name="dread">{{cite news |last=Myers |first=Maddy |date=2021-06-15 |title=Everything we know about the gameplay and story of Metroid Dread |work=Polygon |url=https://www.polygon.com/e3/22535295/metroid-dread-2d-gameplay-story-lore-reveal-e3-2021-nintendo-treehouse |access-date=2021-06-15}}</ref>

==Reception==
{{Video game reviews
| GR = 91.23%<ref>{{cite web|access-date=January 27, 2009 |url=http://www.gamerankings.com/gba/516709-metroid-fusion/index.html |title=Metroid Fusion Reviews |publisher=Game Rankings |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090303115554/http://www.gamerankings.com/gba/516709-metroid-fusion/index.html |archive-date=March 3, 2009}}</ref>
| Fam = 34/40<ref name="Famitsu" />
| MC = 92/100<ref name=metacritic>{{cite web|access-date=January 3, 2009 |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/metroid-fusion/critic-reviews/?platform=game-boy-advance |title=Metroid Fusion |publisher=Metacritic |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101123194019/http://www.metacritic.com/game/game-boy-advance/metroid-fusion |archive-date=November 23, 2010}}</ref>
| EGM = 9.5/10, 9.5/10, 9/10<ref name="egm">{{Cite magazine |date=January 2003 |title=Review Crew |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |issue=171 |page=214|url=https://archive.gamehistory.org/item/e67265bd-34b1-45fc-baf4-d55497a2fee0 |accessdate=September 9, 2025|via=[[Video Game History Foundation]]|publisher=Ziff Davis Media|first1=Shane|last1=Bettenhaus|first2=James "Milkman"|last2=Mielke|first3=Mark|last3=MacDonald}}</ref>
| EuroG = 9/10<ref name=eurogamer>{{cite web|access-date=January 4, 2009 |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_metroidfusion_gba |title=Metroid Fusion |publisher=Eurogamer |date=November 26, 2002 |author=Bramwell, Tom |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090804044430/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_metroidfusion_gba |archive-date=August 4, 2009}}</ref>
| GI = 10/10<ref name=gameinformer>{{cite magazine |title=Metroid Fusion |magazine=Game Informer |date=January 2003 |page=120}}</ref>
| GamePro = 4.5/5<ref name=gamepro>{{cite magazine |access-date=January 4, 2009 |url=http://www.gamepro.com/article/reviews/27207/metroid-fusion/ |title=Metroid Fusion |magazine=GamePro |date=November 22, 2002 |author=Dingo, Star |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090130144608/http://www.gamepro.com/article/reviews/27207/metroid-fusion/|archive-date=January 30, 2009}}</ref>
| GSpot = 8.6/10<ref name="gamespot">{{cite web |last1=Kasavin |first1=Greg |title=Metroid Fusion Review |url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/metroid-fusion-review/1900-2897729/ |website=GameSpot |publisher=Red Ventures |access-date=June 9, 2021 |date=November 15, 2002 |archive-date=February 5, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205031342/http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/metroid-fusion-review/1900-2897729/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
| GSpy = 88%<ref name=gamespy>{{cite web|access-date=January 4, 2009 |url=http://archive.gamespy.com/reviews/november02/metroidfusiongba/ |title=Metroid Fusion (GBA) |publisher=GameSpy |date=November 20, 2002 |author=Turner, Benjamin |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081014172443/http://archive.gamespy.com/reviews/november02/metroidfusiongba/ |archive-date=October 14, 2008}}</ref>
| GRadar = 85%<ref name=gamesradar>{{cite journal |url=http://gamesradar.msn.co.uk:80/features/default.asp?subsectionid=205&articleid=64705&pagetype=2 |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 23, 2003 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030123091956/http://gamesradar.msn.co.uk/features/default.asp?subsectionid=205&articleid=64705&pagetype=2 |title=Metroid Fusion |journal=GamesRadar |date=December 16, 2002 |df=mdy-all}}</ref>
| GameZone = 9.5/10<ref name=gamezone>{{cite web |access-date=January 4, 2009 |url=http://gameboy.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r20483_GBA.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081014122224/http://gameboy.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r20483_GBA.htm |archive-date=October 14, 2008 |title=Metroid Fusion Review |publisher=GameZone |date=December 15, 2002 |author=Bedigian, Louis}}</ref>
| IGN = 9.5/10<ref name=ign>{{cite web |title=Metroid Fusion |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2002/11/12/metroid-fusion |website=IGN |publisher=Ziff Davis |access-date=June 9, 2021 |date=November 12, 2002 |archive-date=March 9, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230309111856/https://www.ign.com/articles/2002/11/12/metroid-fusion |url-status=live}}</ref>
| NWR = 9.5/10<ref name="nwr">{{cite web |last1=Powers |first1=Rick |title=Metroid Fusion Review |url=https://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/3986/metroid-fusion-game-boy-advance |website=Nintendo World Report |access-date=June 9, 2021 |date=November 10, 2002 |archive-date=September 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230906225846/https://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/3986/metroid-fusion-game-boy-advance |url-status=live}}</ref>
| Play = 5/5<ref name=play>{{cite journal |title=Metroid Fusion |journal=Play |date=December 2002 |page=92}}</ref>
| XPlay = 5/5<ref name=xplay>{{cite web|access-date=January 4, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021124044735/http://www.techtv.com/extendedplay/reviews/story/0%2C24330%2C3407842%2C00.html |archive-date=November 24, 2002 |date=November 22, 2002 |url=http://www.techtv.com/extendedplay/reviews/story/0,24330,3407842,00.html |title='Metroid Fusion' (GBA) Review |work=X-Play |author=Urbanek, AM |url-status=dead}}</ref>
}}

''Fusion'' received "universal acclaim" according to [[review aggregator]] [[Metacritic]].<ref name="metacritic" /> The Japanese magazine ''[[Famitsu]]'' gave it 34 out of 40.<ref name="Famitsu" /> ''[[X-Play]]'' said it was a "pleasure to play", and praised its "beautiful" graphics and audio.<ref name="xplay" /> ''[[IGN]]'' praised it as an "outstanding achievement on the Game Boy Advance".<ref name="ign" /> ''[[GamesRadar]]'' and ''[[GamePro]]'' felt it was too short, but "love[d] every minute of it", finding the hidden secrets and new power-ups "sublimely ingenious".<ref name="gamepro" /><ref name="gamesradar" /> ''[[GameSpot]]'' was disappointed that the game ended so soon, but said that ''Metroid'' fans would enjoy it.<ref name="gamespot" /> ''Nintendo World Report'' and ''[[Eurogamer]]'' called it the best 2D ''[[Metroid]]'' game and the best Game Boy Advance game so far.<ref name=eurogamer /><ref name=nwr /> ''[[Game Informer]]'' agreed, describing it as "everything you could want from a Game Boy Advance game" from beginning to end, giving it a perfect review score.<ref name=gameinformer /> ''[[Play (UK magazine)|Play]]'' described it as a "magnified, modified, and improved" version of everything great from ''Metroid'' and ''[[Super Metroid]]''.<ref name=play />

''GameSpot'' thought that ''Fusion'' offered ''Super Metroid''{{'}}s best qualities packaged in a new adventure.<ref name=gamespot /> Scott Pelland of ''[[Nintendo Power]]'' heralded it as a return to the classic ''Metroid'' action gameplay.<ref name=np>{{cite magazine |title=Now Playing |magazine=Nintendo Power |date=December 2002 |page=212|volume=163|publisher=Nintendo of America}}</ref> The "perfect" controls were praised by ''[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]''.<ref name=egm /> ''Fusion'' did not feel new to ''[[GameSpy]]'', which complained that even the final enemy encounter draws heavy inspiration from ''Super Metroid''.<ref name=gamespy /> ''GameZone'' felt that the small screen of the Game Boy Advance was a poor environment in which to play ''Fusion'', but they found it an exciting game.<ref name=gamezone />

''Fusion'' received several accolades. It was awarded "[[D.I.C.E. Award for Mobile Game of the Year|Handheld Game of the Year]]" by the [[Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences]] at the [[6th Annual Interactive Achievement Awards]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.interactive.org/awards/2003_6th_awards.asp |title=2003 6th Annual Interactive Achievement Awards |publisher=[[Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences]] |access-date=March 19, 2011 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101023023559/http://www.interactive.org/awards/2003_6th_awards.asp |archive-date=October 23, 2010}}</ref> It was also chosen as "Best Game Boy Advance Adventure Game" by ''IGN''<ref>{{cite web|access-date=January 4, 2009 |url=http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/382/382682p1.html |title=Best of 2002: Game Boy Advance Adventure Title |publisher=IGN |date=January 14, 2003 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081007044823/http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/382/382682p1.html |archive-date=October 7, 2008}}</ref> and "Best Action Game on Game Boy Advance" by ''GameSpot'',<ref>{{cite web|access-date=January 4, 2009 |url=http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2002/gba6.html |title=Best Action Game on Game Boy Advance |publisher=GameSpot |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081203190705/http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2002/gba6.html |archive-date=December 3, 2008}}</ref> which had named it the handheld's best game of November 2002 earlier in the year.<ref name=gotm>{{cite web | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030822180514/http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/gotm/120702/index.html | url=http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/gotm/120702/index.html | title=''GameSpot''{{'}}s Game of the Month, November 2002 | author=((The Editors of ''GameSpot'')) | date=December 7, 2002 | work=[[GameSpot]] | archive-date=August 22, 2003 | url-status=dead}}</ref> It was a runner-up for ''GameSpot''{{'}}s annual "Best Sound", "Best Graphics", "Best Story" and overall "Game of the Year" awards among Game Boy Advance games.<ref name=bestworst2002>{{cite web | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030207155400/http://gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2002/ | url=http://gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2002/ | title=''GameSpot''{{'}}s Best and Worst of 2002 | author=''GameSpot'' Staff | date=December 30, 2002 | work=[[GameSpot]] | archive-date=February 7, 2003 | url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2009, ''[[Official Nintendo Magazine]]'' called ''Fusion'' "sleek, slick and perfectly formed", ranking it the 62nd-best Nintendo game.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.officialnintendomagazine.co.uk/article.php?id=7188 |title=100-81 ONM |magazine=[[ONM]] |access-date=September 9, 2022 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090223134327/http://www.officialnintendomagazine.co.uk/article.php?id=7188 |archive-date=February 23, 2009}}</ref>

===Sales===
''Fusion'' sold over 1.6 million copies worldwide.<ref name="whitepaper">{{cite book |title=2021CESAゲーム白書 (2021 CESA Games White Papers)|publisher=[[Computer Entertainment Supplier's Association]]|year=2021|isbn=978-4-902346-43-5}}</ref> In its debut week, it sold more than 100,000 units in North America.<ref name=100k>{{cite web | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030207223006/http://www.jeuxvideo.com/whatsnew.htm?20021202 | url=http://www.jeuxvideo.com/whatsnew.htm?20021202 | title=Grosses ventes chez Nintendo | date=December 2, 2002 | author=Staff | work=[[Jeux Video]] | language=fr | archive-date=February 7, 2003 | url-status=dead}}</ref> It finished the month of November 2002 with 199,723 copies sold in the United States alone, for total revenues of {{USD}}5,590,768, making it the third best-selling Game Boy Advance game that month,<ref>{{cite journal|date=November 2002|title=Top 10 Selling Games for GBA|journal=NPD}}</ref> and the tenth best-selling game across all platforms.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Calvert |first1=James |title=November video game sales |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/november-video-game-sales/1100-2901969/ |website=[[GameSpot]] |publisher=[[Red Ventures]] |access-date=June 9, 2021 |date=February 25, 2004 |archive-date=April 1, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200401185812/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/november-video-game-sales/1100-2901969/ |url-status=live}}</ref> It sold 940,000 copies by August 2006, with revenues of {{USD}}27 million. During the period between January 2000 and August 2006, in the United States it was the twenty-first highest-selling game for the Game Boy Advance, [[Nintendo DS]] or [[PlayStation Portable]].<ref name="nextgensales">{{cite web|url=http://www.next-gen.biz/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3557&Itemid=2&pop=1&page=0|title=The Century's Top 50 Handheld Games|author=Keiser, Joe|date=August 2, 2006|work=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071010052300/http://www.next-gen.biz/index2.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3557&Itemid=2&pop=1&page=0|archive-date=October 10, 2007|url-status=dead}}</ref> As of November 2004, ''Fusion'' had sold 180,000 copies in Japan.<ref>{{cite journal|date=November 2004|title=Game Boy Advance Software Best Seller Ranking|journal=NPD}}</ref>

==References==
===Notes===
{{Notelist}}

===Citations===
{{Reflist|2}}

== External links ==
* {{IMDb title|id=0349818|title=Metroid Fusion}}
* {{MusicBrainz release group|id=b35274ba-b688-3cd6-8e94-0a78b68941e5|name=Metroid Prime & Fusion Original Soundtracks}}

{{Portal bar|2000s|Japan|Video games|Space|Speculative fiction}}
{{Metroid series}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:2002 video games]]
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[[Category:Game Boy Advance games]]
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[[Category:Metroid games|Fusion]]
[[Category:Metroidvania games]]
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