#16: Super Metroid
The last Metroid is in captivity, the galaxy is at peace. Well... not for long and it's a goof thing because this means we get to experience this masterpiece. While Metroid and Return of Samus did lay the groundwork, I believe it's with Super Metroid that the franchise (and the whole genre) got it's real start. As you explore Zebes you discover wildly different regions, blocked paths, encounter fierce enemies. The power ups you gather are fun to use (speed booster and shine spark being my favorites) and the backtracking is done effortlessly for the most part. The music is also a big part of the experience, every theme suits the atmosphere of the region you're traversing from the fiery caves of Norfair to the creepy vibes of the Wrecked Ship.
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