Zip line



Unidentified Artificial Mechanism 13 is a mode of rail system transportation present throughout Kraid's Lair in Metroid: Zero Mission. Resembling ziplines, they are used to cross distances hindered either by Acid or some other means. They only require a free hand to use, but Samus must activate their power station by standing in its hole in Morph Ball mode, giving it a kinetic charge that reactivates the system. Samus can then shoot red switches on the ceiling to summon them. Samus can also hang onto them in Morph Ball mode, which is particularly useful for getting across long distances. It is unknown how the mechanism can hold the Morph Ball, but it is possible that there is a magnetic connection similar to the Spider Ball and a Spider Ball Track. One notable use of the mechanism is in the battle with Mua, where Samus has to grab hold of it to zoom past the creature when it tries to ram into her.

In Metroid: Other M, similar mechanisms are seen in Biosphere and Cryosphere, however, they are attached to the wall and aren't connected to each other via a system. They are no longer hold the Morph Ball. In Biosphere, it appears in one of the water-filled corridors near the Bioweapon Research Center, and is activated via a switch panel in the water. Samus can hold onto the transport to get over the water and up to a higher ledge. However, she must take down several ceiling-hanging Whipvines in the way. In Cryosphere, various ice structures block most of the mechanism's path, they can be destroyed with a Missile. The mechanism is used to reach a higher ledge with a Terminal that will activate a door.

The Zipline of Metroid Prime 3: Corruption is similar.