Recreating Retro Magic: M2NES Brings Metroid to the Game Boy!

A devoted fan of Metroid is remaking the classic NES game with the Metroid 2 aesthetic for the Game Boy handheld console.

Metroid Fan Remaking Original Game for Game Boy

Are you ready to embark on a nostalgic journey back to the roots of gaming? Well, hold onto your power gloves because a homebrew developer is working on something truly remarkable! Prepare to dive back into the world of Samus Aran with M2NES: Zebes Revisited, a fan game that recreates the original NES classic, Metroid, for the Game Boy.

Metroid: A Classic Adventure

Metroid, a beloved series known for its exploration-based gameplay, has captured the hearts of countless gamers. While the original Metroid might not have aged seamlessly, its formula laid the foundation for what would become an iconic franchise. That’s why fans are always eager to celebrate the series, whether through fan-made remakes or brand-new fan games.

From Remakes to Fan Games

Metroid has seen impressive remakes and fan-made projects throughout the years. One standout example is AM2R, a fan-made full remake of Metroid 2: Return of Samus, which brings it closer to the gameplay of Metroid: Zero Mission. Additionally, we can’t forget Metroid: Samus Returns, an official remake of the second game developed by MercurySteam for the Nintendo 3DS.

The original Metroid also received a makeover on the Game Boy Advance with Metroid: Zero Mission. This colorful and vibrant 16-bit remake introduced stunning sprite work, cutscenes, and even a sneaky new section where Samus dons her Zero suit.

Enter M2NES: Zebes Revisited

Now, let’s focus on M2NES: Zebes Revisited, the latest labor of love from homebrew developer LOO-E. This ambitious project aims to recreate the original Metroid using the engine and constraints of Metroid 2. In other words, LOO-E is porting the colorful and sprawling NES game to fit within the limited grayscale sprites and screen size of the Game Boy.

Watch the M2NES: Zebes Revisited trailer on YouTube

Recreating Retro Magic

The M2NES trailer offers a fascinating glimpse into how the developer is faithfully recreating the iconic areas from the original Metroid within the limitations of Metroid 2. Despite the compression required to fit the smaller Game Boy screen, these areas remain recognizable and true to the spirit of the original. LOO-E has made some impressive quality-of-life improvements as well, such as adding refill points and save rooms for a smoother gameplay experience.

But that’s not all! This fan game promises an exciting addition called the Bendezium Mines. This abandoned Space Pirate mine introduces new abilities for Samus, along with power-ups encountered as players fight through hordes of space pirates. And to recreate the original NES look, the game features a color palette that copies the Game Boy Color feel, had it been played on the handheld.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. When can we get our hands on this masterpiece? Well, M2NES: Zebes Revisited is set to be released sometime in 2024. However, some fans are worried about a possible shut down, as seen with the Another Metroid 2 Remake back in 2016. But fear not! M2NES might have a bit of wiggle room since it is technically a ROM hack, hopefully avoiding any legal entanglements.

Q&A: Answering Your Burning Questions

Q: How faithful is M2NES: Zebes Revisited to the original Metroid game? A: LOO-E’s dedication to recreating the original NES game within the constraints of the Game Boy is impressive. Despite the limited grayscale palette and screen size, the game manages to capture the essence and recognizable areas of the original Metroid.

Q: Will M2NES: Zebes Revisited be available on other platforms? A: As of now, the game is being developed specifically for the Game Boy. However, with the wonders of emulation, it might be possible to enjoy the game on other platforms in the future.

Q: Can I expect any new features in M2NES: Zebes Revisited? A: Absolutely! The Bendezium Mines, a brand-new area, will provide players with an exciting space pirate-infested exploration experience. Additionally, LOO-E has implemented quality-of-life improvements like refill points and save rooms for a smoother and more enjoyable gameplay flow.

Get Ready to Relive the Adventure!

So mark your calendars and charge up your Game Boy, because M2NES: Zebes Revisited is set to take you on an incredible journey through the nostalgic world of Metroid. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, this fan game promises to deliver an experience that captures the retro magic of the original NES classic.

🎮 Let us know in the comments below: Are you excited about M2NES: Zebes Revisited? Share your favorite Metroid memories or fan game experiences!

⭐️ Don’t forget to spread the word and share this article with your friends who can’t resist the allure of retro gaming!


References:

  1. Learn more about Metroid on Wikipedia
  2. Watch the AM2R Metroid fan remake trailer
  3. Discover Metroid: Samus Returns
  4. Explore more about Metroid: Zero Mission
  5. Watch the trailer for Another Metroid 2 Remake

Note: All images and videos used in this article belong to their respective owners.