There's no doubt about it; Nintendo's Switch is a sensation. The console has brought Nintendo right back to the forefront of player's minds after a somewhat lackluster generation with the Wii U. Despite the Switch's immense popularity, it's seriously missing out on some major Nintendo franchises. Considering that even the library of huge series like Mario and Legend of Zelda has reduced offerings compared to other Nintendo consoles, it shouldn't come as too much of a surprise to learn that Metroid is one of the worst offenders.

Metroid is one of gaming's most beloved franchises, detailing the sci-fi adventures of Samus Aran, a bounty hunter outfitted with a weaponized power suit. Primarily responsible for influencing the creation and development of the Metroidvania genre, alongside Castlevania, of course, the titles often showcase her ongoing battle against alien adversaries and dangerous wildlife.

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Metroid Dread Samus

With Metroid Dread now officially announced, fans are more eager than ever to dive into the existing library of Metroid games before the new title's release. However, players are having difficulty actually playing these games as almost all of Samus' exploits aren't available on Switch. As it stands, those who want to play existing Metroid titles will likely have to dig out an old Wii U or 3DS.

Right now, there are no Metroid games made for Switch or purchasable through the Switch's eShop. Metroid Dread is available to preorder, and two classic titles are playable through the virtual NES and SNES with a Nintendo Online subscription, but there's nothing for players who want to play anything other than Metroid and Super Metroid. That's a problem with Metroid Dread now on the horizon and players' hype building.

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Samus acquires Morph Ball Upgrade In Metroid

The first 2D Metroid game in nearly 20 years has gotten player's attention, but they lack any means to experience the majority of the franchise. Currently, the two best consoles for playing Metroid games are Nintendo's 3DS and Wii U. The Wii U's eShop hosts the largest assortment of Metroid titles, featuring treasured classics like Metroid Fusion (which inspired elements of Metroid Dread) and the Metroid Prime trilogy. On the 3DS, there are fewer options, but still, some offering the Switch is without, like Metroid II - Return of Samus and its reimagining Metroid: Samus Returns.

With all the excitement surrounding Metroid Dread, Nintendo would do well to offer easier ways for players to delve into previous titles in the Metroid series. There's no better place for players to encounter those games than on the Switch, but until something changes, fans looking for a classic Metroid experience will have to get their hands on some older hardware.

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