Brinstar

As Samus delves below ground into a series of labyrinthine caves, strange critters scamper off-screen, subtly suggesting the planet has largely remained undisturbed for some time. Upon finding the Morph Ball in Old Brinstar (the exact location of the original game’s starting area), a watchful beam of light shines on Samus, following her every move. Something knows she’s here. Returning to rooms that had previously been empty, Samus is confronted by Space Pirates and hostile alien lifeforms. As Mother Brain was created partially to control the planet’s defense systems, the spotlight can be seen as an extension of the villainous AI.

Unlike the desolate remains of Old Brinstar, Upper Brinstar is a thriving underground jungle swarming with indigenous lifeforms, and makes up the majority of the area.

Featured Boss: Kraid

Kraid was given a substantial upgrade in size from his 8-bit days. The developers even cheekily included a miniature-sized Kraid enemy (known as Sclayd) that more closely resembles his classic stature a few moments before Samus faces the real deal. A similar “Fake Kraid” appeared in the first game, though it was the same size as the actual Kraid.

Rising out of the ground, Kraid’s dramatic entrance shakes the area, sending debris in all directions. Kraid’s open mouth is his only weak point, but it’s possible to kill him nigh-instantly before he finishes rising into position. By damaging Kraid in a certain manner, his mouth is locked in an open position for a very brief span of time. Rapidly firing three Super Missiles into his mouth defeats the boss in a matter of seconds.

Kraid’s original size was retconned in Metroid: Zero Mission to match his appearance in Super Metroid.