The storyline in Metroid Fusion is compelling and simple. Our favorite heroine, Samus, was hired by the Federation to assist Biologic Space Labs (B.S.L) in a research assignment to gather information about the restructuring of the ecosystem of the planet SR388, the former planet of the Metroids. Suddenly in a battle with a newly discovered life-form, Samus found herself infected with a mysterious parasite simply called X. After almost being killed, B.S.L found that Samus’ power-armor has grafted with her body, so removing it completely was no longer an option, she is virtually one with her suit. Removing the infected parts of her armor, the B.S.L scientists became desperate for a cure, and they came up with a Metroid cell serum. The Metroid serum works almost immediately, and it appears that the Metroids were the primary hunters of the parasite X. Slowly regaining her health Samus must return to the research station. Now her search begins, Samus with the aid from her ship’s computer, begins to seek and destroy all traces of the parasite X.

The gameplay in Metroid Fusion is simply fantastic, 2D side scrolling action/adventure at its best. The controls are simple, yet complete and defined; A to jump, B to shoot, right-trigger and B to launch missiles, I think you get the idea. In the beginning, Samus has none of her special weaponry, but that quickly changes as your computer guides you to your missile download. One of Samus’ new abilities, which you now begin the game with, is the ability to grab ledges. I know this is nothing new in the world of gaming, however, it does add a new dimension of puzzle solving in Metroid a Metroid game. Fusion has a good share of navigation rooms and clearly explained objectives as well, so you never really feel lost while playing. The level designs are clever and well thought-out, and the enemy designs are original and as good as they have ever been. And of course what Metroid game would be complete without exploration? Fusion has plenty of exploration, as well as, plenty of nicely timed action.

Fusion is very well paced game; it is easy to pick up, but extremely hard to put down. It is one of the most well crafted adventure games for the Game Boy Advance (or any other system) I’ve played. There is one shortcoming in Fusion however, it’s well designed and well thought-out, but is just too damn short! I logged in roughly six or seven hours and finished the game, though, those six or seven hours were some of the finest gaming hours of my life. And of course for those that also own a copy of Metroid Prime and the link cable, you can enjoy the uploadable Fusion suit in the game, and boy does it look sweet! Overall, playing this game brought me back to the old NES playing days, when drinking a six pack of coke and staying up past midnight was considered a productive weekend. Well what are you waiting for? Go out and pick up your copy of Metroid Fusion now, you’ll thank me later.