Metroid is a renowned science fiction action-adventure video game series developed by Nintendo, first introduced in 1986. The series is known for its atmospheric exploration and platforming gameplay, centered around the protagonist Samus Aran, a bounty hunter battling the parasitic Metroids and the Space Pirates led by Ridley. One of the brand's key strengths is its pioneering role in the "Metroidvania" subgenre, which has influenced countless games with its formula of guided non-linearity and power-up based progression. Metroid's global brand awareness is significant among gamers, particularly for its classic titles like "Super Metroid" and the more recent "Metroid Dread," which have helped maintain its status as a beloved and iconic franchise within the gaming community.