Metroid
Produced by Game Boy creator Gunpei Yokoi, the very first Metroid was released in Japan in 1986 on the Famicom Disk System, before making its way to the US and Europe via the NES in '87 and '88 respectively. It's unique hook was an unconventionally non-linear approach to progression through the game's maze-like levels, in which the cybernetic suited Space Hunter, Samus Aran, had to to locate and destroy Mother Brain - the leader of the planet seizing Space Pirates. Metroid's lead character contradicted trends at the time by being female, although this fact wasn't revealed to players until the game was completed within a certain time limit (anyone completing the game in under three hours was treated to an image of Samus in her undies).
When did the series goice cold?
Nintendo developed a Game Boy only sequel - Metroid II: Return of Samus - before treating gamers to a full blown SNES adventure in 1994 with Super Metroid. A delicious power-up system, monumental boss battles, the unnaturally compelling urge to explore and a palpable atmosphere that seemed to defy the 16-bit limitations of its host all combined to make it one of SNES' - and indeed gaming's - most revered classics and has since enjoyed regular starring roles on countless 'greatest games of all time' list. Needless to say, gamers were left positively ravenous for more...
