With Metroid Prime 4: Beyond finally becoming a reality (cue screaming), let’s talk about the legend herself: Samus Aran. It’s the perfect time to revisit the bounty hunter behind the Power Suit, whether you’ve followed her since the NES days or just caught her stylish entrance in the latest trailer.
Samus Aran, Not Your Average Space Marine
Let’s clear something up: Samus Aran isn’t some faceless space soldier in the Metroid Prime series. She’s one of gaming’s most iconic protagonists since 1986. Raised by the Chozo (an ancient alien avian race) after losing her parents to Space Pirates, she was infused with Chozo DNA and trained to survive whatever the galaxy throws at her.
And yes, she’s the one under that famous orange-and-red Power Suit. Not a man. Not a robot. Just an unstoppable human weapon with serious trauma, serious tech, and zero time for your nonsense. And yes, fans were shocked when she first stepped out of her battle suit during a secret ending scene in Metroid. This made her one of the most iconic protagonists in gaming history.
It’s All About The Looks
Samus Aran has evolved from a surprise twist clad in a bright pink leodard (or bikini depending on game completion) in 1986 to epic space warrior (who probably needs a vacation). Her early appearence focused on simple sprites, but as technology advanced, so did her design—gaining height, muscle, and a more athletic build. Her features became more defined until they settled on her modern appearance that all gamers can recognize.
Her Power Suit also evolved—from bulky and bright to sleek, tactical, and increasingly alien in design, especially in games like Prime and Dread. This created an unmatched character not easily forgotten by any player.
Other Appearances Outside Metroid
You know how I said that Samus Aran is an unmatched character? Well, she’s not just in Metroid, oh no. She has made appearances in other game titles, which just makes her even more awesome. Here are a few:
- All Super Smash Bros.
- Galactic Pinball (1995)
- Super Mario RPG (1996)
- Kirby Super Star (1996)
- Dead or Alice: Dimensions as an NPC
Final Thoughts
So, if Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is your first dive into this universe, buckle up. Samus Aran isn’t just a hero—she’s a myth in a power suit. And trust me, you’ll want to know what she’s capable of before she steps foot on Viewros.
