What Species Does Samus Hunt In Metroid II Return Of Samus

In Metroid II: Return of Samus, players control bounty hunter Samus Aran on a critical mission to the planet SR388. The primary objective of this journey is the complete extermination of a dangerous parasitic lifeform known as the Metroids. This article details the specific species Samus hunts, the various evolutionary stages encountered, and the significance of this mission within the broader Metroid storyline.

The Primary Target: The Metroid Species

The sole species Samus Aran is tasked with hunting in Metroid II is the Metroid. These floating, jellyfish-like creatures are native to the planet SR388 and are characterized by their ability to drain the life energy from other organisms. The Galactic Federation commissions Samus for this dangerous mission because Metroids have been weaponized by space pirates, posing a significant threat to galactic security. Her orders are explicit: locate the Metroid hive and eradicate every single specimen found on the planet’s surface and within its subterranean tunnels.

Evolutionary Stages Encountered

Throughout the game, Samus encounters Metroids in various stages of their life cycle, each becoming progressively more dangerous. Initially, she faces the standard Alpha Metroids, which are relatively small but aggressive. As she delves deeper into the catacombs of SR388, she confronts Gamma Metroids, which possess electrical attacks, and Zeta Metroids, which can walk on land and shoot fireballs. The hunt culminates in battles against the massive Omega Metroids and finally the Queen Metroid, the source of the species’ reproduction on the planet.

Mission Outcome and Significance

While the mission begins as a straightforward extermination order, the narrative concludes with a pivotal moment in the franchise. After defeating the Queen Metroid, Samus discovers a newly hatched larva that imprints on her as its mother. Instead of destroying this final specimen, Samus spares the baby Metroid, setting the stage for the events of Super Metroid. This decision highlights the complex relationship between Samus and the species she was sent to hunt, transforming her role from a mere hunter to a protector of the last known Metroid.