This was my first ever Metroid(vania) that I played through to the end. It was a really gripping experience that I'd recommend to anyone unversed with the genre. The difficulty was brutal in the best of ways, and it had some of the clearest boss designs I've ever seen.

The only gripe I have with the game are the EMMI sections. For better or worse, the EMMIs seem to prioritize setting up good atmosphere than actual fun play design. After dying to them multiple times in a row, they simply become frustrating and annoying rather than scary.

Story wise, this game has a lot of fun twists and turns. The polish and animations are incredible. It really doesn't overstay its welcome. Wholeheartedly recommend this game.