Metroid is set in a distant future where the Galactic Federation and pirates of planet Zebes are at war. The pirates have stolen an unknown life-form, recently discovered on SR388, known as Metroid , which was believed to be the cause of SR388's destruction. This alien life form could destroy countless other systems if it got loose.
The game follows space bounty hunter Samus Aran as she lands on Zebes and navigates through treacherous terrain in Brinstar and Norfair. Her mission is to defeat the pirates, their alien enforcers Ridley and Kraid, and the mysterious leader behind the Space Pirates, known as Metroid , in order to save the planet from destruction.
The gameplay revolves around Samus' use of her Power Suit's weapons and defenses to destroy enemies. She can also absorb enemy powers into her suit to increase her defense and chances of survival. As she progresses through the game, Samus must find her way to the central chamber of Tourian and defeat Metroid , the leader behind the Space Pirates.