Metroid Dread is the fifth mainline 2D Metroid game — the first original side-scrolling Metroid entry in nineteen years since Metroid Fusion (2002) — and the best-selling game in the franchise's history. Developed by MercurySteam in collaboration with Nintendo EPD and produced by series creator Yoshio Sakamoto, the game was originally conceived for the Nintendo DS in 2005 but spent fifteen years in development hell before being revived following the success of Metroid: Samus Returns in 2017. Released on October 8, 2021 — simultaneously with the Nintendo Switch OLED Model — it is a direct sequel to Metroid Fusion and concludes the saga of the X Parasite that began in Metroid II.

Key Features: • EMMI zones — near-invulnerable pursuer robots that hunt Samus through dedicated areas • Classic Metroidvania exploration — ability gating, hidden passages and deep interconnected world • Phantom Cloak + Melee Counter — new movement and combat tools rewarding precision • Direct sequel to Metroid Fusion — concludes the X Parasite saga across 35 years