I'm not a fan of Metroidvanias in general, and yet Metroid is one of my favorite series ever.
So of course, the least linear one isn't gonna land on me too much.
But that being said, its clear why this game is so special and held on such high standar. The amount of freedom and thoughtful design here to acomdate for it is amazing, the atmosphere on it, as wel as the music helps elevate this game so much, and it has some very great moments as well.
Its one of those games you gotta play at least once, even if its not my kind of thing that much.