Feature reflects on Metroid Dread's lasting impact on Switch
This feature looks back at Metroid Dread's 2021 launch and its importance in bringing back 2D Metroid after a long gap following Metroid Fusion. The author explains how the game eased them into Metroidvania mechanics despite their usual dislike of the genre, and notes its strong replay value. With Metroid Ravenous on the way, the article says now is a good time to try Dread.
Metroid Dread arrived in late 2021 after 2D Metroid had been inactive since Metroid Fusion in 2002. Rather than restarting the series, it continued from its predecessor, which the feature frames as notable. The writer, previously uninterested in Metroid and not fond of Metroidvanias, completed it fully several times and even cleared Dread Mode without taking damage. Its short campaign—roughly ten hours for full item collection or about four for a rushed run—supports repeat visits, aided by intentional sequence breaks and alternate routes.
ZDR is a large connected map with secrets, but upgrades, map highlighting, and nearby Teleportals guide backtracking, making a guide unnecessary.
The renewed attention could affect lapsed Metroid fans, newcomers curious about Metroidvanias, and Switch owners looking for shorter, replayable games. A positive retrospective may encourage more players to try Dread before Metroid Ravenous, potentially strengthening interest in 2D exploration titles. It may also shape how players view accessibility in challenging genres, since the article presents Dread as approachable despite its difficulty. These effects are likely modest, tied to niche gaming communities rather than broad societal change.