Kraid: Just a Space Pirate Lackey or More? Let’s Dive In!
You’re asking if Kraid is a Space Pirate. That’s a good question. He hangs out with Ridley and Mother Brain. They are not charming people.
Let’s explore Space Pirates in Metroid and see how Kraid fits in.
Space Pirates 101: Who Are These Guys?
Space Pirates are space bad guys. They cause chaos in the Metroid universe. They’re classic pirates, just in space.
Space Pirates are a dangerous species. They are heavily armed. They excel in combat. Their tech is powerful. They use Galvanic Accelerator Cannons and Scythes which pose a threat to anyone.
Metroids as Bio-Weapons: A Pirate’s Dream
How do pirates take over galaxies? They use bio-weapons. The Space Pirates aimed to use Metroids as weapons of mass destruction. Thus began their plot to weaponize Metroids, which sparked major conflicts.
Space Pirate History: Galaxy’s Most Wanted
These pirates are a serious threat. They are so bad that the Galactic Federation created the Federation Force for them. Think of it as an intergalactic SWAT team for these crooks. They have caused a lot of hassle for ages.
Meet the Bosses: Ridley and Mother Brain
Every pirate crew needs leaders. Initially, Ridley was the main boss of the Space Pirates. But Mother Brain eventually took over as the leader. In the Metroid manga, she manipulates the pirates for control.
Fate of the Space Pirates: Down but Not Out?
What happened to the Space Pirates? Like many villains, they faced defeat. The Galactic Federation dismantled their operations. The Ing and Hunters helped take them down too. It’s like a group effort to handle bullies.
Kraid’s Corner: Where Does He Fit In?
So, what about Kraid? Is Kraid just another pirate? Not really. Kraid and Ridley are “Space Pirate figureheads.” They are the faces of the organization, providing muscle and intimidation.
Kraid is not just any pirate. He plays an important role in protecting Mother Brain at Zebes, where Metroids are cloned.
Kraid in Dread: Still Kicking After All These Years
Kraid returned in Metroid Dread after a long absence. He appears as the main boss in Cataris. Mawkin Chozo Soldiers were possibly holding him captive there. His return on ZDR is mysterious. Did he escape? Did the Chozo tire of feeding him? The full story is unclear.
Space Pirate All-Stars: Beyond Kraid
Kraid isn’t the only pirate in this band. Let’s meet more notable ones:
- Ridley: Samus’s main enemy and the original Space Pirate commander. He is dangerous, smart, and considered public enemy number one by Samus. He destroyed her home and family.
- Mother Brain: The operational mastermind. She replaced Ridley and treats the Pirates as her minions. “Mommy Brain” for a reason, yet more focused on domination.
- Draygon: A giant crustacean boss from Super Metroid. A major Space Pirate and guardian against Samus. Facing this creature as a security guard is terrifying.
- Zebesians: This subgroup took over planet Zebes, making it their pirate base. They are like a branch for piracy.
Space Pirate Adjacent: Friends and Foes (Maybe)
Now, let’s discuss some characters who aren’t actual pirates:
- Crocomire: Believe it or not, Crocomire isn’t a Space Pirate. Some theories suggest he’s a leader trying to thwart them with anger issues.
- Phantoon: His pirate status is unclear. He’s ghostly and linked with wrecks and creepiness. Let’s call his status “complicated.”
- Dark Samus: A villain, yet not a traditional pirate. Dark Samus is a corrupted version of Samus who spreads chaos.
Planets of Pirate Infamy: Zebes and Beyond
- Zebes: The original Space Pirate base. Kraid and Ridley oversaw operations here until Samus caused chaos, leading to its destruction.
- SR388, Dark Aether, Phaaze, ZDR: These planets faced trouble linked to Space Pirates or galactic threats because of Samus’s visits.
Samus Aran: Pirate Hunter Extraordinaire
Let’s not overlook Samus in this pirate saga.
- Planet Destroyer? Maybe unintentionally so! Zebes is one of several planets impacted by her adventures.
- Ridley PTSD: Samus has deep trauma linked to Ridley. His return each time weighs heavily on her.
- Age and Identity: Samus is likely in her late 20s or early 30s. She’s female, a twist from original depictions that surprised many.
- Not Mute! Contrary to popular belief, she does speak in Metroid Dread, showing she has plenty to say.
Random Pirate-y Facts (Because Why Not?)
- Kraid’s Species: Still unknown! What is Kraid exactly? Some mysteries remain.
- Space Pirate Inspiration: Captain Harlock influenced some pirate traits of the Metroid group.
- Non-Pirates: Privateers exist as sanctioned pirates but aren’t part of Metroid’s universe.
Kraid is definitely a Space Pirate and plays an important role in galactic chaos.
Don’t expect him to share his space rum, though.
