Wikitroid
Wikitroid
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{{Featured article}}
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{{Featured article}}{{-}}
   
 
{{Infobox Metroid
 
{{Infobox Metroid
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|image = [[File:MSR Alpha Metroid artwork.jpg|280px]]
 
|image = [[File:MSR Alpha Metroid artwork.jpg|280px]]
 
|caption = Artwork of an Alpha Metroid from ''Metroid: Samus Returns''
 
|caption = Artwork of an Alpha Metroid from ''Metroid: Samus Returns''
|games = ''[[Metroid II: Return of Samus]]''<br/>''[[Metroid Fusion]]''<br />''[[Metroid: Samus Returns]]''
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|games = ''[[Metroid II: Return of Samus]]''<br/>''[[Metroid: Samus Returns]]''<br/>''[[Metroid Fusion]]''
|location = [[Surface]]<br />[[Area 1]]<br />[[Area 2]]<br />[[Area 3]]<br />[[Area 4]]<br />[[Area 5]] (''Metroid: Samus Returns'' only)<br />[[Area 6|Phase 8]]<br />[[Restricted Laboratory]]<br />[[SRX]]
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|location = [[Surface]]<br />[[Area 1]]<br />[[Area 2]]<br />[[Area 3]]<br />[[Area 4]]<br />[[Area 5]] (''Samus Returns'')<br />[[Area 6|Phase 8]]<br />[[Restricted Laboratory]]<!--Since Alpha Metroids are never seen in Sector 1 (SRX), do not list it as a location.-->
 
|homeworld = [[SR388]]
 
|homeworld = [[SR388]]
 
|attacks = ''[[Metroid II: Return of Samus]]'': Ramming
 
|attacks = ''[[Metroid II: Return of Samus]]'': Ramming
''[[Metroid: Samus Returns]]'': Dive bomb (Counterable, unless protected with electricity), dropping bursts of electricity, igniting the floor
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''[[Metroid: Samus Returns]]'': Dive bomb (Counterable, unless protected with electricity), dropping bursts of electricity, igniting the floor<br>[[Giant Electric Mine]]
 
|weakness = [[Missiles]] (''Metroid II: Return of Samus'', ''Metroid: Samus Returns'')<br />[[Super Missiles]] (''Metroid: Samus Returns'')<br/>[[Ice Beam]] (''Metroid: Samus Returns'')<br />[[Beam Burst]] (''Metroid: Samus Returns'')
 
|weakness = [[Missiles]] (''Metroid II: Return of Samus'', ''Metroid: Samus Returns'')<br />[[Super Missiles]] (''Metroid: Samus Returns'')<br/>[[Ice Beam]] (''Metroid: Samus Returns'')<br />[[Beam Burst]] (''Metroid: Samus Returns'')
|cycle = Preceded by: '''[[Larva Metroid]]'''<br />Followed by: '''[[Gamma Metroid]]'''
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|cycle = Preceded by: '''[[Metroid larva]]'''<br />Followed by: '''[[Gamma Metroid]]'''
 
|stage = '''Stage 4: Fresh Pupa'''
 
|stage = '''Stage 4: Fresh Pupa'''
 
}}
 
}}
   
The '''Alpha Metroid''' is the fourth stage of a typical [[Metroid (species)|Metroid]]'s life cycle, appearing in three games, ''[[Metroid II: Return of Samus]]'', ''[[Metroid Fusion]]'' and ''[[Metroid: Samus Returns]]''.
+
The '''Alpha Metroid''' is the fourth stage of a typical [[Metroid (species)|Metroid]]'s life cycle, appearing in three games, ''[[Metroid II: Return of Samus]]'', ''[[Metroid Fusion]]'' and ''[[Metroid: Samus Returns]]'', though they are a merely a cameo in ''Fusion''.
   
The creature's insect-like appearance is a large departure from its prior and well-known [[Larva Metroid|larval stage]]. This metamorphosis will only occur if a Larva Metroid is inhabiting its homeworld of [[SR388]], or [[SRX|a replica of it]]. From this stage onward in the species' life cycle, a Metroid can no longer be immobilized with the [[Ice Beam]], but can be damaged and killed with either [[Missiles]] or said beam. After an unknown period of time, the Alpha Metroid grows into a [[Gamma Metroid]].
+
The creature's insect-like appearance is a large departure from its prior and well-known [[Metroid larva|larval stage]]. This metamorphosis will only occur if a Metroid larva is inhabiting its homeworld of [[SR388]], or [[SRX|a replica of it]]. From this stage onward in the species' life cycle, a Metroid can no longer be immobilized with the [[Ice Beam]], but can now be damaged and eventually killed with either [[Missiles]] or said beam. After an unknown period of time, the Alpha Metroid grows into a [[Gamma Metroid]].
   
In ''Metroid II: Return of Samus'', [[Samus Aran]] encountered fifteen Alpha Metroids during her mission to [[SR388]], while in ''Metroid: Samus Returns'' there are sixteen Alphas.
+
In ''Metroid II: Return of Samus'', [[Samus Aran]] encountered fifteen Alpha Metroids during her mission to [[SR388]], while in ''Metroid: Samus Returns'' there are seventeen Alphas.
   
 
== Physiology ==
 
== Physiology ==
An Alpha Metroid molts from the topside of a Larva Metroid's translucent membrane. The development has granted it new physical features: two red compound eyes, three large fangs surrounding a leech-like mouth outlined with smaller teeth, four budding limbs and a plated exoskeleton growing along the dorsal region. The Metroid now resembles an arthropod, and the species' characteristic membrane and red nucleus are now located on its underbelly. Due to unknown factors related to SR388's environment, a rare mutation can occur in which an Alpha Metroid is covered in a green, moss-like substance while possessing an additional pair of eyes.
+
An Alpha Metroid molts from the topside of a Metroid larva's translucent membrane and leaves behind a shed [[Metroid Husk|husk]] in the process. The development has granted it new physical features: two red compound eyes, three large fangs surrounding a leech-like mouth outlined with smaller teeth, four budding limbs and a plated exoskeleton growing along the dorsal region. The Metroid now resembles an arthropod, and the species' characteristic membrane and red nucleus are now located on its underbelly. Due to unknown factors related to SR388's environment, a rare mutation can occur in which an Alpha Metroid is covered in a green, moss-like substance while possessing an additional pair of eyes.
   
The appearance of Alpha Metroids differed in ''Metroid II ''and ''Metroid Fusion''. They lack an oral cavity, therefore their three fangs functioned more as a central horn and two tusks. The compound eyes were initially of a blue color. There was also no mutated Alpha Metroids to be found.
+
The appearance of Alpha Metroids differed in ''Metroid II'' and ''Metroid Fusion''; they lacked an oral cavity, therefore their three fangs functioned more as a central horn and two tusks. The compound eyes were initially of a blue color, and there were no mutated Alpha Metroids to be found.
   
 
== Membrane and nucleus ==
 
== Membrane and nucleus ==
Larva Metroids have four nuclei housed within their massive membranes, though they seemingly lose three of these when they become Alpha Metroids, as the latter possess only a single nucleus in their smaller membranes. Due to the fact that a larva leaves an empty membrane behind when it metamorphoses into an Alpha Metroid, it can be logically assumed that the three missing nuclei were re-purposed into creating the organism's new body in a fashion similar to stem cells. The remaining nucleus is carried by the Metroid for the rest of its life cycle.
+
Metroid larvae have four nuclei housed within their massive membranes, though they seemingly lose three of these when they become Alpha Metroids, as the latter possess only a single nucleus in their smaller membranes. Due to the fact that a larva leaves an empty membrane behind when it metamorphoses into an Alpha Metroid, it can be logically assumed that the three missing nuclei were re-purposed into creating the organism's new body in a fashion similar to an embryo's stem cells. The remaining nucleus is carried by the Metroid for the rest of its life cycle.
   
These anatomical changes have an impact on how the Metroid reacts to its species' major weakness: the [[Ice Beam]]. Contrary to a larva who's entire body is frozen solid when fired upon from any angle with the weapon's standard shot, an Alpha Metroid cannot be immobilized by any means. Only its membrane can be encased in ice, which will merely slow the creature's movement and is achievable strictly by shooting its face or membrane with a [[Charge Beam|charged shot]] of the Ice Beam. The inability to completely freeze its body results from the newly-developed exoskeleton that borders the membrane; the small surface area of the membrane that remains exposed, along with the Metroid's unceasing movements as well as the delay in shooting consecutive charged shots, forces Samus to make accurate shots in the heat of battle.
+
These anatomical changes have an impact on how the Metroid reacts to its species' major weakness: the [[Ice Beam]]. Contrary to a larva whose entire body is frozen solid when fired upon from any angle with the weapon's standard shot, an Alpha Metroid cannot be immobilized by any means. Only its membrane can be encased in ice, which will merely slow the creature's movement and is achievable strictly by shooting its membrane with a [[Charge Beam|charged shot]] of the Ice Beam. The inability to completely freeze its body results from the newly-developed exoskeleton that borders the membrane; the small surface area of the membrane that remains exposed, along with the Metroid's unceasing movements as well as the delay in shooting consecutive charged shots, forces Samus to make accurate shots in the heat of battle.
   
However, an Alpha Metroid's membrane is frail, as it can be readily damaged with either [[Missile|concussive]] [[Super Missile|weaponry]] or the Ice Beam alone, unlike the Larva Metroid's complete invulnerability to weapons unless it is specifically shot with missiles ''after'' it is frozen first. In addition, the membrane of the older Metroid remains frozen for a longer period of time than the younger form who unfreezes rapidly. This disparity in the membranes' defensive strength is likely determined by the number of nuclei present on their bodies.
+
However, an Alpha Metroid's membrane is frail, as it can be readily damaged with either [[Missile|concussive]] [[Super Missile|weaponry]] or the Ice Beam alone, unlike the Metroid larva's complete invulnerability to weapons unless it is specifically shot with missiles ''after'' it is frozen first. In addition, the membrane of the older Metroid remains frozen for a longer period of time than the younger form who unfreezes rapidly. This disparity in the membranes' defensive strength is likely determined by the number of nuclei present on their bodies.
   
The Alpha Metroid is arguably the weakest stage in the SR388 life cycle after the [[Infant Metroid]]. Nevertheless, it is the first crucial metamorphosis that will ultimately allow the creature to reach far superior forms, with much of the weaknesses listed above either diminished or removed entirely.
+
The Alpha Metroid is arguably the weakest stage in the SR388 life cycle after the [[Infant Metroid]]. Nevertheless, it is the first crucial metamorphosis that will ultimately allow the creature to reach far superior forms, with many of the weaknesses listed above either diminished or removed entirely.
   
 
==Behavior==
 
==Behavior==
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The Alpha Metroids can perform new attacks in ''Samus Returns'', including attempting to dive-bomb Samus. When preparing this attack, they protect their vulnerable membrane by positioning themselves with their dorsal shell. The attack itself, however, can be parried with her [[Melee Counter]] and leave it open for damage. The Alpha Metroids will occasionally protect themselves by deploying a thin layer of electricity (or red plasma energy if dealing with the mutated variants) during their ramming maneuvers, neutralizing all of Samus' attacks (including the Melee Counter) except the Ice Beam. The normal variant can drop from its membrane small electrical spheres which detonate with a small radius; these can be destroyed for pickups. The mutant variety will instead drop large red indestructible plasma spheres that spread out into flames, covering the entire floor or platform it impacts on. These electric and plasma based traits are a precursor to the Gamma Metroid variants which possess extensive control over the elements.
 
The Alpha Metroids can perform new attacks in ''Samus Returns'', including attempting to dive-bomb Samus. When preparing this attack, they protect their vulnerable membrane by positioning themselves with their dorsal shell. The attack itself, however, can be parried with her [[Melee Counter]] and leave it open for damage. The Alpha Metroids will occasionally protect themselves by deploying a thin layer of electricity (or red plasma energy if dealing with the mutated variants) during their ramming maneuvers, neutralizing all of Samus' attacks (including the Melee Counter) except the Ice Beam. The normal variant can drop from its membrane small electrical spheres which detonate with a small radius; these can be destroyed for pickups. The mutant variety will instead drop large red indestructible plasma spheres that spread out into flames, covering the entire floor or platform it impacts on. These electric and plasma based traits are a precursor to the Gamma Metroid variants which possess extensive control over the elements.
   
Alpha Metroids are more durable in ''Samus Returns''; the first one encountered takes 10 missiles to kill, and subsequent Alphas can withstand up to 15 missiles, with the mutated variant requiring additional hits. However, it can now be damaged by the Ice Beam or the [[Beam Burst]]. Their high mobility and aggression can make it difficult for Samus to score direct shots with her missiles, but a [[Charge Beam|charged]] Ice Beam shot into the membrane will greatly hinder their speed and facilitate the next few shots. In addition, encasing their weak spot in ice will prevent the Metroids from deploying their energy barriers and force them to resort to their standard ram, giving Samus an opportunity to Melee Counter. If Missile ammunition is depleted, she can use her Ice Beam to damage the organisms, though it will take more time to finish them off. If a charged Ice Beam shot intersects with an electrical sphere and then proceeds to hit the Metroid, it will do substantially more damage. The more electrical spheres the shot passes through before hitting the Metroid, the more damage is dealt.
+
Alpha Metroids are more durable in ''Samus Returns''; the first one encountered takes 7 missiles to kill, and subsequent Alphas can withstand up to 15 missiles, with the mutated variant requiring additional hits. However, it can now be damaged by the Ice Beam or the [[Beam Burst]]. Their high mobility and aggression can make it difficult for Samus to score direct shots with her missiles, but a [[Charge Beam|charged]] Ice Beam shot into the membrane will greatly hinder their speed and facilitate the next few shots. In addition, encasing their weak spot in ice will prevent the Metroids from deploying their energy barriers and force them to resort to their standard ram, giving Samus an opportunity to Melee Counter. If Missile ammunition is depleted, she can use her Ice Beam to damage the organisms, though it will take more time to finish them off. If a charged Ice Beam shot intersects with an electrical sphere and then proceeds to hit the Metroid, it will do substantially more damage. The more electrical spheres the shot passes through before hitting the Metroid, the more damage is dealt.
   
In ''Samus Returns'', the first Metroid that Samus encounters is a Larva that has recently drained a green [[Hornoad]] of its [[life energy]]. As she approaches it, the Metroid sheds its membrane and emerges as an Alpha Metroid, beginning the battle. As this Metroid had just metamorphosed, it lacks the ability to emit electricity or plasma.
+
In ''Samus Returns'', the first Metroid that Samus encounters is a larva that has recently drained a green [[Hornoad]] of its [[life energy]]. As she approaches it, the Metroid sheds its membrane and emerges as an Alpha Metroid, beginning the battle. As this Metroid had just metamorphosed, it lacks the ability to emit electricity or plasma.
   
 
[[File:MSR Chozo Memory 08.png|thumb|Metroids evolving into Alpha Metroids and turning on the Chozo]]
 
[[File:MSR Chozo Memory 08.png|thumb|Metroids evolving into Alpha Metroids and turning on the Chozo]]
In [[Chozo Memories|Chozo Memory 08]], the once-tame [[Larva Metroid|Larva Metroids]] created by the Chozo to combat the [[X Parasites]] were shown shedding their bodies, emerging as Alpha Metroids and turning against their creators. This implies that the Metroids' life cycle on SR388 was either an unintentional trait or the Chozo simply overestimated their ability to control the species as they molted into superior forms. As a result of the Metroids growing out of control, the Chozo brought about the creation and/or release of the [[Purple liquid]], alongside the construction of the [[Chozo Seal]]s which were designed to contain the majority of the Metroid population deep underground.
+
In image 8 of the [[Chozo Memories]], the once-tame [[Metroid larva]]e created by the Chozo to combat the [[X Parasites]] were shown shedding their bodies, emerging as Alpha Metroids and turning against their creators. This implies that the Metroids' life cycle on SR388 was either an unintentional trait or the Chozo simply overestimated their ability to control the species as they molted into superior forms. As a result of the Metroids growing out of control, the Chozo brought about the creation and/or release of the [[purple liquid]], alongside the construction of the [[Chozo Seal]]s which were designed to contain the majority of the Metroid population deep underground.
   
 
==Official Data==
 
==Official Data==
===[[Metroid II: Return of Samus]] Manual===
+
===''[[Metroid II: Return of Samus]]'' Manual===
 
''"This the shape of a Metroid after its first molting."''
 
''"This the shape of a Metroid after its first molting."''
   
  +
===[[Virtual Console]] Manual===
=== ''[[Metroid: Samus Returns Official Guide]]'' ===
 
  +
;Metroids (p. 16)
  +
:'''Alpha Metroid'''
  +
:''"This Metroid has gone through its first molting."''
  +
 
===''[[Metroid: Samus Returns Official Guide]]''===
 
;Alpha Metroid (p. 21)
 
;Alpha Metroid (p. 21)
 
:''"While Alpha Metroids may be the first “true” evolutionary form of the Metroid family, they’re not as frightening as most Metroids you run into. We label this stage the “awkward teenage years” of the Metroid maturity chain. They feature more attacks than your standard Metroid larva, but their growing carapace means they’re much slower and less aggressive than their younger cousins. They do receive a boost in defensive ability, so the Ice Beam-and-missile trick is no longer viable. That doesn’t mean they’re immune to these weapons, not by a long shot. However, don’t expect to dispatch an Alpha as quickly as you would a Metroid larva. With Alphas and all following Metroid evolutions, you’ve gotta work for your fights."''
 
:''"While Alpha Metroids may be the first “true” evolutionary form of the Metroid family, they’re not as frightening as most Metroids you run into. We label this stage the “awkward teenage years” of the Metroid maturity chain. They feature more attacks than your standard Metroid larva, but their growing carapace means they’re much slower and less aggressive than their younger cousins. They do receive a boost in defensive ability, so the Ice Beam-and-missile trick is no longer viable. That doesn’t mean they’re immune to these weapons, not by a long shot. However, don’t expect to dispatch an Alpha as quickly as you would a Metroid larva. With Alphas and all following Metroid evolutions, you’ve gotta work for your fights."''
   
 
==Trivia==
 
==Trivia==
  +
*In ''Return of Samus'', the Alpha Metroids shared [[Vs. Metroid|their battle theme]] with all Metroids except the larvae and Queen. In ''Samus Returns'', the Alpha Metroid gains two unique [[Boss Alpha|themes]], and they are the only Metroid in the game to have multiple battle themes.
*[[Mochtroid]]s, which are defective clones of Metroids created by Space Pirates, also possess a single nucleus. Contrary to the Alpha Metroid's and all subsequent stages of its life cycle, the organ is underdeveloped and very small.
+
*[[Mochtroid]]s, which are defective clones of Metroids created by [[Space Pirate]]s, also possess a single nucleus. Contrary to the Alpha Metroid's and all subsequent stages of its life cycle, the organ is underdeveloped and very small.
*In ''[[Metroid Prime]]'', there is a [[Tallon Metroid]] designated as [[Metroid: Alpha Type]], despite not having any relation to an actual Alpha Metroid.
+
*In the NTSC version of ''[[Metroid Prime]]'', there are two [[Tallon Metroid]]s designated as [[Metroid: Alpha Type]], despite neither not having any close relation to an actual Alpha Metroid.
  +
*The Alpha Metroid is the only stage whose metamorphosis process can be directly witnessed in the remake.
   
 
==Gallery==
 
==Gallery==
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Restricted Lab.JPG|Alpha Metroid in the lower left tube in the [[Restricted Laboratory]] in ''[[Metroid Fusion]]''
 
Restricted Lab.JPG|Alpha Metroid in the lower left tube in the [[Restricted Laboratory]] in ''[[Metroid Fusion]]''
 
Alpha Metroid Fusion.jpg|Closeup
 
Alpha Metroid Fusion.jpg|Closeup
File:Samus vs Alpha Metroid in MSR.jpg|''Metroid: Samus Returns''
+
File:Samus vs Alpha Metroid in MSR.jpg|''Metroid: Samus Returns'' artwork of the [[Beam Burst]]
File:Metroid Samus Returns Prima art print.jpg|''Metroid: Samus Returns'' limited edition art print by [''[Prima Games]]''
+
File:Metroid Samus Returns Prima art print.jpg|''Metroid: Samus Returns'' limited edition art print by [[Prima Games]]
 
File:Metroid Samus Returns Alpha battle concept art.png|Concept art revealed at PAX West.
 
File:Metroid Samus Returns Alpha battle concept art.png|Concept art revealed at PAX West.
 
File:MSR Art Gallery 000.png|In-game concept art unlocked with [[amiibo]]
 
File:MSR Art Gallery 000.png|In-game concept art unlocked with [[amiibo]]
File:MercurySteam Gamma Metroid cake.jpg|Cake created by Digital Development Management for [[MercurySteam]] to celebrate the release of ''Samus Returns''
+
File:MercurySteam Gamma Metroid cake.jpg|[[Alpha Metroid and Samus cake|Cake]] created by Digital Development Management for [[MercurySteam]] to celebrate the release of ''Samus Returns''
 
File:Eight Metroids growing.jpg
 
File:Eight Metroids growing.jpg
 
File:Metroid Samus Returns Metroid Husk Larval Metroid Husk - Shedding (Cutscene).png|An Alpha Metroid shedding the Metroid Husk of its larval stage in ''Samus Returns''
 
File:Metroid Samus Returns Metroid Husk Larval Metroid Husk - Shedding (Cutscene).png|An Alpha Metroid shedding the Metroid Husk of its larval stage in ''Samus Returns''
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File:Metroid Samus Returns Metroid (Stage 4) Alpha Metroid - Mandibles (Cutscene).png|Close-up shot of an Alpha Metroid's Mandibles in ''Samus Returns''
 
File:Metroid Samus Returns Metroid (Stage 4) Alpha Metroid - Mandibles (Cutscene).png|Close-up shot of an Alpha Metroid's Mandibles in ''Samus Returns''
 
File:Metroid Samus Returns Metroid (Stage 4) Alpha Metroid (Cutscene).png|The first Alpha Metroid Samus encounters on the Surface of SR388 in ''Samus Returns''
 
File:Metroid Samus Returns Metroid (Stage 4) Alpha Metroid (Cutscene).png|The first Alpha Metroid Samus encounters on the Surface of SR388 in ''Samus Returns''
File:Metroid Samus Returns Metroid (Stage 4) Alpha Metroid (Stunned).png|An Alpha Metroid after being stunned with a Melee Counter in ''Samus Returns''
+
File:Metroid Samus Returns Metroid (Stage 4) Alpha Metroid (Stunned).png|An Alpha Metroid during its [[Grab Sequence]] in ''Samus Returns''
File:Samus Returns Alpha Metroid dying.jpg|An Alpha Metroid dies.
+
File:Samus Returns Alpha Metroid dying.jpg|An Alpha Metroid dies
File:Metroid Samus Returns Metroid Husk Alpha Metroid Husk (Cutscene).png|A shed Alpha Metroid Husk in ''Samus Returns''
+
MSR Area 2 Evolved Alpha.jpg|An "evolved" Alpha Metroid battling Samus in Area 2
  +
File:Metroid Samus Returns Metroid Husk Alpha Metroid Husk (Cutscene).png|A shed Alpha Metroid Husk in ''Samus Returns''
 
</gallery>
 
</gallery>
   
 
{{Metroids}}
 
{{Metroids}}
  +
{{Bosses in Metroid Series}}
 
[[es:Metroid Alfa]]
 
[[es:Metroid Alfa]]
 
[[ru:Альфа Метроид]]
 
[[ru:Альфа Метроид]]
 
[[ja:アルファメトロイド]]
 
[[ja:アルファメトロイド]]
 
[[Category:Bosses]]
 
[[Category:Metroids]]
 
[[Category:Metroids]]
 
[[Category:SR388]]
 
[[Category:SR388]]
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[[Category:Area 6]]
 
[[Category:Area 6]]
 
[[Category:BSL]]
 
[[Category:BSL]]
[[Category:Sector 1]]
 
 
[[Category:Restricted Zone]]
 
[[Category:Restricted Zone]]
 
[[Category:Recurring Species]]
 
[[Category:Recurring Species]]

Revision as of 03:18, 10 June 2020

This is a featured article.


The Alpha Metroid is the fourth stage of a typical Metroid's life cycle, appearing in three games, Metroid II: Return of Samus, Metroid Fusion and Metroid: Samus Returns, though they are a merely a cameo in Fusion.

The creature's insect-like appearance is a large departure from its prior and well-known larval stage. This metamorphosis will only occur if a Metroid larva is inhabiting its homeworld of SR388, or a replica of it. From this stage onward in the species' life cycle, a Metroid can no longer be immobilized with the Ice Beam, but can now be damaged and eventually killed with either Missiles or said beam. After an unknown period of time, the Alpha Metroid grows into a Gamma Metroid.

In Metroid II: Return of Samus, Samus Aran encountered fifteen Alpha Metroids during her mission to SR388, while in Metroid: Samus Returns there are seventeen Alphas.

Physiology

An Alpha Metroid molts from the topside of a Metroid larva's translucent membrane and leaves behind a shed husk in the process. The development has granted it new physical features: two red compound eyes, three large fangs surrounding a leech-like mouth outlined with smaller teeth, four budding limbs and a plated exoskeleton growing along the dorsal region. The Metroid now resembles an arthropod, and the species' characteristic membrane and red nucleus are now located on its underbelly. Due to unknown factors related to SR388's environment, a rare mutation can occur in which an Alpha Metroid is covered in a green, moss-like substance while possessing an additional pair of eyes.

The appearance of Alpha Metroids differed in Metroid II and Metroid Fusion; they lacked an oral cavity, therefore their three fangs functioned more as a central horn and two tusks. The compound eyes were initially of a blue color, and there were no mutated Alpha Metroids to be found.

Membrane and nucleus

Metroid larvae have four nuclei housed within their massive membranes, though they seemingly lose three of these when they become Alpha Metroids, as the latter possess only a single nucleus in their smaller membranes. Due to the fact that a larva leaves an empty membrane behind when it metamorphoses into an Alpha Metroid, it can be logically assumed that the three missing nuclei were re-purposed into creating the organism's new body in a fashion similar to an embryo's stem cells. The remaining nucleus is carried by the Metroid for the rest of its life cycle.

These anatomical changes have an impact on how the Metroid reacts to its species' major weakness: the Ice Beam. Contrary to a larva whose entire body is frozen solid when fired upon from any angle with the weapon's standard shot, an Alpha Metroid cannot be immobilized by any means. Only its membrane can be encased in ice, which will merely slow the creature's movement and is achievable strictly by shooting its membrane with a charged shot of the Ice Beam. The inability to completely freeze its body results from the newly-developed exoskeleton that borders the membrane; the small surface area of the membrane that remains exposed, along with the Metroid's unceasing movements as well as the delay in shooting consecutive charged shots, forces Samus to make accurate shots in the heat of battle.

However, an Alpha Metroid's membrane is frail, as it can be readily damaged with either concussive weaponry or the Ice Beam alone, unlike the Metroid larva's complete invulnerability to weapons unless it is specifically shot with missiles after it is frozen first. In addition, the membrane of the older Metroid remains frozen for a longer period of time than the younger form who unfreezes rapidly. This disparity in the membranes' defensive strength is likely determined by the number of nuclei present on their bodies.

The Alpha Metroid is arguably the weakest stage in the SR388 life cycle after the Infant Metroid. Nevertheless, it is the first crucial metamorphosis that will ultimately allow the creature to reach far superior forms, with many of the weaknesses listed above either diminished or removed entirely.

Behavior

In Return of Samus, the Alpha Metroid has very basic and straightforward movements, so it does not pose any large threat. It is impervious to all beam weaponry (including the Ice Beam, unlike in the game's remake) and can only be harmed by Missiles, of which five will take this creature down. Its only means of attack is ramming, as it lacks the life energy drain of its predecessor.

The Alpha Metroids can perform new attacks in Samus Returns, including attempting to dive-bomb Samus. When preparing this attack, they protect their vulnerable membrane by positioning themselves with their dorsal shell. The attack itself, however, can be parried with her Melee Counter and leave it open for damage. The Alpha Metroids will occasionally protect themselves by deploying a thin layer of electricity (or red plasma energy if dealing with the mutated variants) during their ramming maneuvers, neutralizing all of Samus' attacks (including the Melee Counter) except the Ice Beam. The normal variant can drop from its membrane small electrical spheres which detonate with a small radius; these can be destroyed for pickups. The mutant variety will instead drop large red indestructible plasma spheres that spread out into flames, covering the entire floor or platform it impacts on. These electric and plasma based traits are a precursor to the Gamma Metroid variants which possess extensive control over the elements.

Alpha Metroids are more durable in Samus Returns; the first one encountered takes 7 missiles to kill, and subsequent Alphas can withstand up to 15 missiles, with the mutated variant requiring additional hits. However, it can now be damaged by the Ice Beam or the Beam Burst. Their high mobility and aggression can make it difficult for Samus to score direct shots with her missiles, but a charged Ice Beam shot into the membrane will greatly hinder their speed and facilitate the next few shots. In addition, encasing their weak spot in ice will prevent the Metroids from deploying their energy barriers and force them to resort to their standard ram, giving Samus an opportunity to Melee Counter. If Missile ammunition is depleted, she can use her Ice Beam to damage the organisms, though it will take more time to finish them off. If a charged Ice Beam shot intersects with an electrical sphere and then proceeds to hit the Metroid, it will do substantially more damage. The more electrical spheres the shot passes through before hitting the Metroid, the more damage is dealt.

In Samus Returns, the first Metroid that Samus encounters is a larva that has recently drained a green Hornoad of its life energy. As she approaches it, the Metroid sheds its membrane and emerges as an Alpha Metroid, beginning the battle. As this Metroid had just metamorphosed, it lacks the ability to emit electricity or plasma.

MSR Chozo Memory 08

Metroids evolving into Alpha Metroids and turning on the Chozo

In image 8 of the Chozo Memories, the once-tame Metroid larvae created by the Chozo to combat the X Parasites were shown shedding their bodies, emerging as Alpha Metroids and turning against their creators. This implies that the Metroids' life cycle on SR388 was either an unintentional trait or the Chozo simply overestimated their ability to control the species as they molted into superior forms. As a result of the Metroids growing out of control, the Chozo brought about the creation and/or release of the purple liquid, alongside the construction of the Chozo Seals which were designed to contain the majority of the Metroid population deep underground.

Official Data

Metroid II: Return of Samus Manual

"This the shape of a Metroid after its first molting."

Virtual Console Manual

Metroids (p. 16)
Alpha Metroid
"This Metroid has gone through its first molting."

Metroid: Samus Returns Official Guide

Alpha Metroid (p. 21)
"While Alpha Metroids may be the first “true” evolutionary form of the Metroid family, they’re not as frightening as most Metroids you run into. We label this stage the “awkward teenage years” of the Metroid maturity chain. They feature more attacks than your standard Metroid larva, but their growing carapace means they’re much slower and less aggressive than their younger cousins. They do receive a boost in defensive ability, so the Ice Beam-and-missile trick is no longer viable. That doesn’t mean they’re immune to these weapons, not by a long shot. However, don’t expect to dispatch an Alpha as quickly as you would a Metroid larva. With Alphas and all following Metroid evolutions, you’ve gotta work for your fights."

Trivia

  • In Return of Samus, the Alpha Metroids shared their battle theme with all Metroids except the larvae and Queen. In Samus Returns, the Alpha Metroid gains two unique themes, and they are the only Metroid in the game to have multiple battle themes.
  • Mochtroids, which are defective clones of Metroids created by Space Pirates, also possess a single nucleus. Contrary to the Alpha Metroid's and all subsequent stages of its life cycle, the organ is underdeveloped and very small.
  • In the NTSC version of Metroid Prime, there are two Tallon Metroids designated as Metroid: Alpha Type, despite neither not having any close relation to an actual Alpha Metroid.
  • The Alpha Metroid is the only stage whose metamorphosis process can be directly witnessed in the remake.

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