Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
If you’re new to Metroid, choose Metroid Prime Remastered for first-person 3D exploration or Metroid Dread for modern 2D action and exploration. Both are listed for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, and neither needs to be presented as a required first step in a series-wide order. The best starting point is the style you want to play.
Which Metroid game should you play first?
| Start with | What it plays like | Why it works as a starting point | How to access it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metroid Prime Remastered | First-person 3D exploration | It is the first game in the Prime series, and its remaster adds modern dual-stick controls. | Standalone Switch game; Nintendo’s catalog lists it for Switch and Switch 2. Nintendo UK catalog |
| Metroid Dread | Side-scrolling 2D action and exploration | Its ability-based backtracking introduces a familiar Metroid structure, and Rookie Mode offers difficulty support. | Standalone Switch game, with Switch 2 support. Nintendo’s US page also offers a free demo. Nintendo US product page |
Pick Prime Remastered if you want to explore an alien world from a first-person perspective; pick Dread if you prefer a side-scrolling adventure with more direct action. If you would rather try an older entry, Nintendo’s Classics catalog includes selected games, subject to regional catalog and membership terms.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Metroid Prime Remastered - Compatible with Nintendo Switch | $47.75 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
NIN Metroid Prime Remastered 12 | $59.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Metroid™ Ravenous | Buy on Amazon | |
| 4 |
|
Final Fantasy VII and Final Fantasy VIII Remastered - Twin Pack (Nintendo Switch) | $34.29 | Buy on Amazon |
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What makes each starting option different?
Metroid Prime Remastered: first-person 3D
Nintendo describes Metroid Prime Remastered as a remaster of the GameCube original and the first game in the Prime series. It updates the presentation with HD visuals and enhanced sound, and includes modern dual-stick controls. Choose it if you want exploration and navigation in 3D rather than a side-scrolling view.
Nintendo announced a physical Nintendo Switch retail edition for 22 February 2023. That confirms a physical release, not present-day stock or a current price; check local retailers for availability.
#1 Best Overall
- Become intergalactic bounty hunter Samus Aran and explore an alien planet in this critically-acclaimed first-person adventure.
- Use and upgrade abilities like the Morph Ball, Missiles, and an array of beams to survive the harsh environments and lethal creatures of the planet Tallon IV.
- Gain abilities and revisit areas to uncover the different routes and secrets hiding in a beautiful-yet-threatening interconnected world.
- Scan your surroundings to gather information about the planet’s history and the creatures that call it home or to reveal enemies’ weak points.
- Choose from multiple control options and experience revamped graphics, sound, and unlockable art in this remastered classic.
Metroid Dread: modern 2D action
Metroid Dread is a side-scrolling adventure built around exploring areas, gaining abilities, and revisiting places that can then reveal new routes and hidden upgrades. Nintendo’s description sums up that loop: “Gain abilities and return to previous areas to find new areas and hidden upgrades in classic Metroid™ gameplay.”
If you want to try before buying, Nintendo’s US product page offers a free demo. Rookie Mode increases the health gained from items and reduces damage from bosses, which can make the opening more approachable. Nintendo says the game is supported on Switch 2 with behavior consistent with Nintendo Switch.
Rank #2
- 10009824
Classic games through Nintendo Classics
Nintendo’s January 2026 UK catalog presents these older entries in Nintendo Classics: Metroid (NES), Zero Mission (GBA), Super Metroid (SNES), Metroid II: Return of Samus (Game Boy), and Fusion (GBA). Nintendo’s US franchise page also lists classics including the original Metroid, Metroid II, and Super Metroid.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesThis route is different from buying a single modern game: access to selected classics is tied to Nintendo Switch Online membership, and the available catalog and membership tier can vary by region. Check Nintendo’s local catalog and subscription terms before choosing this option.
Rank #3
- It’s eat or be eaten! Survive against vicious assailants to escape labyrinthine ruins
- Take control of Samus Aran, a renowned bounty hunter ambushed by unknown attackers and marooned on an unfamiliar moon.
- Strike quickly and aggressively with beams, missiles, and more—lest you become the enemy’s next meal.
What Metroid games are available on Switch in 2026?
Nintendo’s UK catalog dated 19 January 2026 lists Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, Metroid Prime Remastered, and Metroid Dread for Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch, alongside the selected Nintendo Classics entries listed above. For current access and local listings, consult Nintendo’s UK catalog or US franchise page; catalog availability is region-sensitive.
Nintendo also announced Metroid Ravenous as a 2D action-adventure exclusive to Switch 2 in its 9 September 2026 Direct announcement. The announcement does not state a release date, so it should be treated as an announced game, not as a currently playable starting option on the basis of that information.
Rank #4
- Final Fantasy VI - The following extra features are included:
- 3X speed mode
- ability to turn battle encounters off
- battle enhancement mode
- final FANTASY VIII remastered - The following extra features are included.battle assist options (HP, ATB gauge, and limit break boosts).game speed boost (X3.no random encounters
Do you need to play Metroid in release order?
The available Nintendo information supports two clear entry points, not a mandatory series-wide order: Prime Remastered is the first game in the Prime series, while Dread is a modern 2D adventure with the series’ exploration and ability-based backtracking. Start with whichever format appeals to you. If you later want to explore older games, choose from the classics available in your region rather than assuming every entry is included in one subscription catalog.
Recommended Free Tools
Quick Recap
A quick way to choose
- Choose Prime Remastered for first-person 3D exploration and modern dual-stick controls.
- Choose Dread for side-scrolling action, ability-driven exploration, a free demo on Nintendo’s US page, or Rookie Mode.
- Choose a classic if you specifically want an older entry and have confirmed it is available through Nintendo Classics in your region and membership tier.
- Wait for a release-date announcement if Ravenous is the game you have in mind; the cited Nintendo announcement gives no date.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
