The graphics and music are nice but the amount of backtracking isn't fun or satisfying, specially having to shoot random blocks to progress. The controls feel very janky compared to other 2d platformers, and is specially disappointing compared to games like Mario. Even though this game is praised for its world design, each individual level is shallow in terms of platforming or combat. The worst thing about this game are the boss fights, which feel more like a test of patience and refarming missiles while hitting a certain weak point more than skill. I can't imagine people still enjoying this game and touting it as one of the best, when the modern Metroid games and other games in this genre are unthinkably better. I imagine nostalgia and being aware of its reputation must help in that regard.