"Samus returns, doing what she does best."

Metroid II: Return of Samus is one of the greatest games to ever be released on the Gameboy. This game has become an instant classic among fans of the Metriod series, and it's not hard to see why. With great and addicting gameplay, solid control, and a great story to boot how can you not like this game?

Metriod has become one of Nintendo of America's most popular games. It ranks among their most popular games such as Mario, Zelda, and Pokemon. It was also on of the first games to star a female. Just about anyone that played the first game were surprised to find that Samus Aran was actually a female. It was a surprise to many gamers at that time considering that females did not have starring roles in video games.

Gameplay- The gameplay in this game is quite excellent. This is by far one of Nintendo's greatest masterpiece, and they don't fail to create masterpieces such as these. The controls are by far on of the best seen on a gameboy, and still remains that way to this day. The controls are quite easy to learn, and anyone should be able to pick up on the game in just a few minutes of play. This game is also quite difficult. The average gamer may feel a little frustrated while playing this game, but with a lot of time and patience, can be beaten.

Story- The story revolves around strange creatures called Metriods. An explorer team has been dispatched to learn more about these strange creatures, but have never been heard of since. Samus is dispatched to the planet to find out what has happen to them. You control Samus Aran as she roams around their home planet learning about what makes these little creatures tick.

Audio- The audio in the game is well done. Not much can be expected from the Gameboy's sound system, but this game manages to get some great sound out of the gameboy. Sounds and music are clearly well heard, and are quite enjoyable.

Video- The graphics are very nice, and the sprites are easily recognizable. From the moment you play to the very end of the game, you won't be disappointed with many of the stages graphics and challenges.

Replaybility- Many of the Metriod games boast great replay value, and this game is no exception. Many Metriod fans will go through the game over and over, challenging themselves to see whether they can beat the game with less energy or missiles. Also the game itself is created very mazelike and you will most likely not find every secret, missile, and power-ups without much exploration

I would definitely recommend anyone to get this game. It is one of the best Gameboy games out there to date, and anyone that is a fan of the Metriod games or just looking for a great title to add to their Gameboy collection, Metriod II: Return of Samus, is a definite must buy. You will not be disappointed with the purchase of this game.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 11/01/99, Updated 11/01/99