# Metroid: Zero Mission - A Stellar GBA Metroidvania Remake
**Release Year:** 2004
**Platform:** Game Boy Advance (GBA), Wii U Virtual Console
**Meta Description:**
**Tags:** Action, Platformer, Metroidvania, Single-Player, Retro, Sci-Fi
*Metroid: Zero Mission*, released in February 2004 in North America and April 2004 in Europe/Japan by Nintendo R&D1, is a Game Boy Advance remake of the original *Metroid* (1986) with enhanced gameplay and visuals. Set before *Metroid II*, it follows bounty hunter Samus Aran as she infiltrates the Space Pirate base on planet Zebes to destroy the Metroid-breeding Mother Brain. Featuring non-linear *Metroidvania* exploration across six regions (Brinstar, Norfair, Kraid, Ridley, Tourian, Chozodia), Samus acquires upgrades like Morph Ball, Screw Attack, and Plasma Beam. With vibrant 8-bit visuals, a cinematic soundtrack by Kenji Yamamoto and Minako Hamano, and new content (e.g., Zero Suit Samus stealth section), it sold over 800,000 copies and earned critical acclaim (*IGN*: 9/10, *GameSpot*: 8.5/10) for its polish and accessibility. Re-released on Wii U Virtual Console (2015), it also unlocks the original *Metroid* upon completion.
## Why Play Metroid: Zero Mission?
*Metroid: Zero Mission* refines the original *Metroid* with smoother controls, a map system, and a blend of classic and new abilities (e.g., Power Grip, Speed Booster). The expanded Chozodia area introduces a stealth-based Zero Suit Samus segment, adding variety. RPG elements include energy tanks, missiles, and super bombs, with bosses like Kraid and Mother Brain testing skill. Gameplay lasts 4-6 hours (8-12 for 100% completion), with Normal and Hard modes, multiple endings based on time/items, and unlockable Time Attack and original *Metroid*. Its fluid mechanics, atmospheric design, and balance of exploration make it a must-play for retro ROM and *Metroidvania* fans, though its shorter length compared to *Metroid Fusion* may leave some wanting more.
## Game Features
- Play as Samus Aran across 6 regions (Brinstar, Norfair, Kraid, Ridley, Tourian, Chozodia)
- Gain abilities: Morph Ball, Varia Suit, Screw Attack, Power Grip, Speed Booster
- Collect energy tanks, missiles, super bombs; Zero Suit stealth in Chozodia
- Face bosses like Kraid, Ridley, Mother Brain; multiple endings (time/item-based)
- Unlock original *Metroid* (post-game) and Time Attack mode
- Experience authentic GBA gameplay on our retro ROM platform or Wii U Virtual Console
## Play Metroid: Zero Mission Online
Hunt Space Pirates today! Our website, Classic Joy Games, lets you play *Metroid: Zero Mission* instantly with no downloads, optimized for modern browsers using GBA emulators. Alternatively, enjoy it on Wii U Virtual Console or sites like RetroGames.cz or EmulatorGames.net. Physical copies are available on eBay/Amazon ($50-$120). Ideal for fans of retro ROMs and *Metroidvania* classics! Note: For emulation, use mGBA or VisualBoyAdvance for optimal performance; GBA SP or emulators with brightness tweaks recommended for visibility.
Join players worldwide and enjoy *Metroid: Zero Mission* on Classic Joy Games. Start your mission now and defeat Mother Brain to cement Samus Aran’s legacy!