Metroid Dread is a 2D sequel worthy of its position as the newest canon mainline entry in the series. After a shaky showing in the previously released Samus Returns remake, MercurySteam has tapped into the legacy of metroid’s revered past, as well taken good ideas from its contemporaries, to create a modern classic that will endure as a speedrunning favorite for years. Strong art direction, quality animation, responsive and impactful gameplay, meaningful progression, a well-realized labyrinthine map with many varied locales, and a fresh narrative are the strongest points of Dread. As soon as I was finished, I began craving more. As a lifelong metroid fan, this game lives up to my expectations, and is one of the greatest games released not only this year, but is also one of the greatest games in the Switch’s library.