This game sure does exist. I definitely tried to play this as authentically as possible, no maps or guides. But eventually with one Metroid left in an area and finding myself entering the same rooms 5 times and it's just exhausting. Then check online maps and just the thought of going back and forth for just probably missing a Metroid? I think I've seen all it really has to offer.

For as linear as Metroid II is, it still makes a feeling of wasting time and that's kind of unfortunate. The upgrades are cool, but recharge stations are in hellish places, and areas sometimes uses the constantly same looking locations or just annoying enemies or respawning obstacles. Also really testing the definition of what it takes to be "music," the first area's song is good but often it finds itself with beeps and boops. Some rooms have another proper track but it doesn't really fit with the tone of this adventure. People talk about atmosphere but I think that's definitely just for Metroid having a jumpscare sting and actually tense music. Everything outside of that doesn't inspire much.

Both remakes make it easier to keep track of things, so I'll probably finish those properly. I'm not happy that I got so bored, but maybe I'll give it another shot sometime later.