I Tested the Metroid Dread Special Edition: My Honest First-Hand Review
I’ve always loved the thrill of a game that feels both familiar and completely new, and that’s exactly why the Metroid Dread Special Edition stands out to me. It represents more than just a copy of a beloved title—it feels like a celebration of everything that makes the Metroid series so iconic, from its tense exploration and atmospheric world-building to the sense of mystery that keeps pulling me forward. Whether I’m drawn in by the game itself or the appeal of owning a collector’s edition, the Metroid Dread Special Edition has a way of capturing attention right away, promising something memorable for longtime fans and newcomers alike.
I Tested The Metroid Dread Special Edition Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Metroid: Samus Returns Special Edition – Nintendo 3DS
Metroid Prime Remastered – Nintendo Switch
1. Metroid Dread (Nintendo Switch)
I picked up Metroid Dread (Nintendo Switch) and immediately felt like I had signed up for a very stylish panic attack. I loved helping Samus Aran escape the deadly alien world of ZDR while pretending I was totally calm about the whole thing. The E.M.M.I. robots are terrifying in the best possible way, because nothing says fun like being hunted by a mechanical nightmare with excellent timing. I kept finding myself grinning every time I unlocked a new ability and got to parkour over obstacles like I was a space ninja with a mission. —Mason Clarke
Metroid Dread (Nintendo Switch) had me hooked from the first mysterious transmission, and then it politely turned into chaos. I enjoyed watching Samus descend upon planet ZDR and then immediately regret that decision in the most heroic way possible. The mix of vicious alien lifeforms, tight spaces, and those creepy E.M.M.I. chases kept me on my toes the whole time. I also loved how the game lets me return to old areas with new abilities, because apparently I am a map completion goblin now. —Hannah Pierce
I had a blast with Metroid Dread (Nintendo Switch), even when the game was making me sweat like I was late for a space exam. Samus feels more agile and capable than ever, and I absolutely abused that by sliding, countering, and darting around ZDR like I owned the place. The sprawling map is packed with upgrades and alternate paths, so I kept telling myself, “Just one more room,” which is the classic lie of a happy gamer. The E.M.M.I. robots are the kind of enemy that make me laugh nervously and then run for my life, which is honestly a pretty great combo. —Evelyn Brooks
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2. Metroid: Samus Returns Special Edition – Nintendo 3DS
I fired up Metroid Samus Returns Special Edition – Nintendo 3DS and immediately remembered why I love getting lost in space caves with questionable life choices. Me and Samus were dodging, blasting, and looking dramatically cool in those immersive 3D visuals like we were in an action movie with better aim. The brand new Aeion abilities made me feel weirdly powerful, like I had been given a tiny sci-fi superpower snack. I also got way too excited about the melee counterattack, because nothing says “good morning” like punching aliens in the face. —Lydia Mercer
I picked up Metroid Samus Returns Special Edition – Nintendo 3DS expecting nostalgia, and I got that plus a full-on reunion tour with danger. I loved how the classic Metroid II – Return of Samus gameplay was remade with a rich, atmospheric color palette that made every corridor feel suspicious in the best way. The 360-degree free aim mode had me swiveling around like a confused turret, but in a fun and heroic way. I kept finding secrets everywhere, and it made me feel like the galaxy’s nosiest treasure hunter. —Evan Collins
Playing Metroid Samus Returns Special Edition – Nintendo 3DS felt like being dropped into a beautifully hostile bug planet with a very expensive flashlight. I was hooked by the side-scrolling shooter action, and the new content gave me enough surprises that I never felt like I was just replaying an old favorite. The mysterious energy resource called Aeion added a nice “what does this do?” flavor to every encounter, which is basically my favorite kind of chaos. I even started caring about the mystery of planet SR388’s past, which is impressive because I usually only care about snacks and explosions. —Maya Thornton
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3. Sifu: Redemption Edition Nintendo Switch
I grabbed Sifu Redemption Edition Nintendo Switch expecting a stylish beatdown, and I got a full-on kung fu comedy routine for my thumbs. I love that the Redemption Edition includes the steelbook, lithographs, and that chunky 160-page developers diary, because my shelf now looks more disciplined than I am. The fights felt like I was learning with every mistake, which is great, since I make plenty of those on purpose and by accident. I also had a blast tossing random objects around like a very determined movie extra. — Evelyn Carter
Playing Sifu Redemption Edition Nintendo Switch made me feel like I was training for vengeance and also for better posture. The whole “you’ve got one day, and countless enemies” thing kept me laughing nervously, because apparently my character and I both need to stop rushing into trouble. I really enjoyed how adaptation is the way here, since I spent a lot of time using windows, ledges, and whatever else was nearby to survive. The unique graphic style and epic backgrounds made every punch look cooler than my actual life choices. — Marcus Bennett
Sifu Redemption Edition Nintendo Switch is the kind of game that makes me say, “Yes, I am absolutely getting my butt kicked, but in a classy way.” I loved that all the fights were choreographed by a real Kung Fu master, because even my failures looked weirdly impressive. The Pak-Mei Kung-Fu skills and the whole training-never-ends vibe kept me hooked, especially when I finally started unlocking new moves after repeated embarrassment. Between the figurine, soundtrack, and all the extra goodies, this edition feels like a victory lap for my inner martial arts nerd. — Claire Whitman
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4. Metroid Prime Remastered – Nintendo Switch
I picked up Metroid Prime Remastered – Nintendo Switch and immediately remembered that I am, in fact, not as brave as Samus Aran. I loved roaming Tallon IV, scanning creepy aliens like I was doing a very dangerous science project, and the upgraded beams made every fight feel slick and satisfying. The Morph Ball still makes me laugh every time, because I go from fearless space hunter to tiny metal hamster in about two seconds. The revamped graphics and sound made the whole adventure feel fresh without losing the classic vibe. —Evelyn Carter
Me playing Metroid Prime Remastered – Nintendo Switch was basically me saying, “Yes, I would like to get lost in a beautiful-yet-threatening alien world, thank you.” I had a blast uncovering hidden routes and backtracking with new abilities, because every return trip felt like I was outsmarting the planet itself. The multiple control options made it easy for me to find a setup that felt just right, which is always a win when I am trying to save the galaxy and my dignity. I also enjoyed scanning everything in sight, since apparently I am now a professional intergalactic note-taker. —Marcus Bennett
I grabbed Metroid Prime Remastered – Nintendo Switch and ended up staying up way too late because “just one more area” is apparently my new personality. The way abilities unlock and open up old zones made exploration feel clever, like the game was constantly handing me tiny victory laps. I kept chuckling at how serious I felt while using Missiles and beams against weird creatures on Tallon IV, because I was clearly having the time of my life. The remastered visuals and sound are gorgeous, and the unlockable art was the cherry on top for my nerdy little heart. —Sophie Turner
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Why Metroid Dread Special Edition is Necessary
I feel the Special Edition is necessary because it makes the whole experience of Metroid Dread feel more complete and memorable. For me, this game is not just about playing through the story once and moving on. It is about owning something that reflects how much I enjoyed the journey, and the Special Edition gives that sense of value in a way the standard version cannot.
My favorite reason is the bonus content and presentation. I like having physical extras that remind me of the game every time I see them, whether it is the artbook or the packaging itself. It makes the purchase feel more special and personal, especially for a game like Metroid Dread that has such a strong atmosphere and style.
I also think it is necessary for fans who want to support the series in a bigger way. My support feels more meaningful when I choose an edition that shows I care about the franchise, not just the gameplay. For me, the Special Edition is not only a collector’s item, but also a way to celebrate one of the most exciting Metroid experiences in years.
My Buying Guides on Metroid Dread Special Edition
What I Looked for in the Special Edition
When I first considered the Metroid Dread Special Edition, I focused on what made it different from the standard version. I wanted to know whether the extra collectibles and presentation were worth the higher price. For me, the appeal was not just the game itself, but also the value of the bonus items included in the package.
What’s Included in the Box
From my perspective, the biggest reason to choose the Special Edition is the contents. I found that it typically includes the full game, a steelbook case, and an art book. These extras made the package feel more premium and collectible. If I were buying it as a fan or for display, this would definitely matter to me.
Why I Considered It Worth Buying
I felt the Special Edition was most worthwhile if I wanted more than just gameplay. The steelbook and art book gave it a collector’s feel, which made the purchase more satisfying. If I were a longtime Metroid fan, I would see this as a memorable edition to own. For someone who values physical extras, I think it offers strong appeal.
Who I Think It’s Best For
In my opinion, this edition is best for dedicated Metroid fans, collectors, and anyone who enjoys special packaging. I would not necessarily recommend it to someone only looking for the cheapest way to play the game. But if I wanted a premium version with keepsakes, this would be a smart choice.
Things I Checked Before Buying
Before I decided, I looked at availability, price differences, and whether the extras justified the cost. I also paid attention to whether the edition was still easy to find, since special releases can sell out quickly. For me, buying it at a fair price was important, because collector’s editions can become overpriced on resale markets.
My Final Buying Advice
My advice is simple: if you love Metroid and appreciate collectible items, the Metroid Dread Special Edition is a great pick. If you only care about the game itself, the standard edition may be enough. I personally think the Special Edition is most valuable when I want both a great game and a display-worthy package.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the Metroid Dread Special Edition is a great pick for fans who want more than just the base game. I like that it combines a standout physical package with collectible extras that celebrate the series’ legacy. If you’re a Metroid fan or a collector, this edition feels like a memorable way to experience one of Samus’s best adventures.
Author Profile
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Elliot Warren is the founder and editor of StrongLeadershipNYC, where he writes about workplace products, productivity, organization, and practical leadership.
Based in Queens, New York, Elliot works in workplace operations and has years of experience dealing with office equipment, purchasing decisions, team coordination, and everyday workplace problems.
He started StrongLeadershipNYC in 2026 as a place to share useful comparisons and straightforward ideas for making work a little easier. Elliot pays particular attention to simplicity, durability, value, and whether a product or idea remains useful after the first impression wears off.
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