10 Influential Video Games That Changed the Industry Forever
Metroid
As much as fans may hate to admit it, the Metroid franchise has and most likely will always be limited to a cult following. Sure, it has titles like Super Metroid and Metroid Prime as examples of times that it came achingly close to the same recognition as some of Nintendo’s other heavy hitting IPs, but the majority of its entries have only enjoyed enough success to garner a limited but loyal following from those who loved its sci-fi aesthetic, atmospheric music and iconic protagonist.
And yet, in the wider scope of video games and game design, Metroid may be even more influential than the likes of Mario, Donkey Kong or The Legend of Zelda. It’s intuitive design which encourages exploration and experimentation has helped inspire a number of titles over the years, from the equally definitive series Castlevania to the early gaming hit Strider. More recently, it has inspired a wealth of indie titles which utilize the design style not only for nostalgia’s sake, but to craft game of the year contenders like Dead Cells to Hollow Knight. Few other games could boast this lasting inspiration, and whether or not it ever becomes a best seller, Metroid will always hold the feather of influence in its cap.
