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{{Weapon-infobox
{{Weapon-infobox
|image=[[File:Ice Beam mp1.jpg|300px|The '''Ice Beam''' is capable of freezing enemies solid]]
|image=[[File:Ice Beam mp1 Screenshot.jpg|300px|The '''Ice Beam''' is capable of freezing enemies solid]]
|caption=The Ice Beam is capable of freezing enemies solid
|caption=The Ice Beam is capable of freezing enemies solid
|games=*''[[Metroid (game)|Metroid]]''
|games=*''[[Metroid (game)|Metroid]]''
*''[[Metroid II: Return of Samus]]''
*''[[Metroid II: Return of Samus]]''
*''[[Metroid: Samus Returns]]''
*''[[Super Metroid]]''
*''[[Super Metroid]]''
*''[[Metroid Fusion]]''
*''[[Metroid Fusion]]''
Line 13: Line 14:
*[[Ice Trooper]]
*[[Ice Trooper]]
*[[Metroid Prime (specimen)|Metroid Prime]]
*[[Metroid Prime (specimen)|Metroid Prime]]
|location=*[[Brinstar]] <small>(''Metroid'')</small>
|location=*[[Brinstar]] {{small|(''Metroid'')}}
*[[Norfair]] <small>(''Zero Mission'' and ''Super Metroid'')</small>
*[[Norfair]] {{small|(''Metroid''/''Metroid: Zero Mission''/''Super Metroid'')}}
*[[Antechamber]] - [[Chozo Ruins]] <small>(''Prime'')</small>
*[[Antechamber]] {{small|(''Metroid Prime'')}}
*[[Main Deck]] <small>(''Fusion'')</small>
*[[Main Deck]] {{small|(''Metroid Fusion'')}}
|authorized= [[Sector 3 (Pyroshpere)]]
|authorized= [[Sector 3 (Pyrosphere)]] {{small|Metroid: Other M}}
|properties=Capable of Freezing most enemies
|properties=Capable of freezing most enemies
|ammo=
|ammo=
|combo=*[[Ice Spreader]] <small>(''Metroid Prime'')</small>
|combo=*[[Ice Spreader]] {{small|(''Metroid Prime'')}}
*[[Ice Shield]] <small>(''Super Metroid'')</small>
*[[Ice Shield]] {{small|(''Super Metroid'')}}
}}
}}


The '''Ice Beam''' is a weapon which has been used regularly by [[Samus Aran]]. It is a collectible item in every entry in the ''Metroid'' series except ''[[Metroid Prime 2: Echoes]]'', ''[[Metroid Prime Hunters]]'', ''[[Metroid Prime 3: Corruption]]'', and ''[[Metroid: Other M]]''. In the games it appears, it is a pivotal weapon when fighting [[Metroid (species)|Metroid]]s since the most effective way of defeating them is freezing them. The Ice Beam was created by the [[Chozo]] according to the official Metroid Prime website and inferences hinted in ''Metroid Prime'' and the [[Metroid Manga]].  
The '''Ice Beam''' is a weapon which has been used regularly by [[Samus Aran]], absent only in ''[[Metroid Prime 2: Echoes]]'', ''[[Metroid Prime Hunters]]'', and ''[[Metroid Prime 3: Corruption]]''. Like many [[Upgrade|upgrades]] to the [[Power Suit]], the weapon is of [[Chozo]] design. When fired, it produces a frigid beam that can freeze many targets. Frozen targets can then be destroyed by a [[Missile]] impact, or used as platforms. Due to their sensitivity to cold, the Ice Beam is a potent weapon in the extermination of [[Metroid (species)|Metroid]]s. This weapon has appeared in nearly every game in the [[Metroid (series)|''Metroid'' series]], and has played a vital role in each appearances.


==Appearances==
==Appearances==
When fired, it produces a frigid beam that can freeze many targets. Frozen targets can then be destroyed by a [[Missile]] impact, or used as platforms. Due to their sensitivity to cold, the Ice Beam is a potent weapon in the extermination of [[Metroid (species)|Metroid]]s. This weapon has appeared in nearly every game in the [[Metroid (series)|''Metroid'' series]], and has played a vital role in each appearances.
===''Metroid''===
===''Metroid''===
[[File:Ice Beam m1 Artwork.png|thumb|left|Ice Beam artwork from [[Metroid (game)|''Metroid'']]]]
[[File:Ice Beam m1 Artwork.png|left|Ice Beam artwork from [[Metroid (game)|''Metroid'']]]]
In the original [[Metroid (game)|''Metroid'']], Samus was able to choose between the [[Wave Beam]] and the Ice Beam but was unable to defeat Metroids without the latter. In ''[[Metroid: Zero Mission]]'', Samus obtains both the Wave Beam and Ice Beam. Like it's original counterpart, it is necessary to defeat the Metroids. In both games, the Ice Beam is also used for freezing enemies then using them as platforms. This is usually helpful if not necessary to obtain [[Suit Expansion|certain expansions]].
The Ice Beam is present in two locations - [[Brinstar]], where it is found fairly close to the location of the [[Morph Ball Bomb|Bombs]], and in a hidden area in the upper right corner of [[Norfair]]. Both locations, however, require the use of the Bombs. With the Ice Beam, Samus is able to freeze enemies solid with a single shot, with another shot afterwards doing damage and unfreezing them (that is, if they're not invincible like [[Ripper]]s). These enemies can then be used as makeshift platforms to reach higher places. However, they will thaw after a while, and killing them with just the beam takes twice as many shots as it normally would, making it more practical to use Missiles to kill them. In addition, it cannot stack with the [[Wave Beam]], meaning collecting one will replace the other (though the old beam does return to its original location(s)). Although the weapon isn't strictly necessary, Samus would be hard pressed to clear [[Tourian]] without it.
 
{{clear|left}}
===''Prime'' series===
In the ''[[Metroid Prime (series)|Prime]]'' series, it appears only in ''Metroid Prime'', however the other games have some sort of substitute for it. The original ''Prime'' introduces the Ice Beam to the third dimension. It is obtained in the [[Chozo Ruins|Chozo Ruins']] [[Antechamber]]. The Ice Beam configuration on the [[Arm Cannon]] constantly looses a frigid aura. The beam shoots white shots of a low-temperature substance. These shots fired are slower than any other beams in the game. Enemies damaged by this weapon can be slowed or, if enough damage has been dealt, frozen completely. Completely frozen enemies cannot move and can be shattered with a single [[Missile]]. Some enemies, such as bosses or well-shielded enemies, cannot be frozen.


''[[Metroid Prime 2: Echoes]]'' instead has the [[Dark Beam]], similarly shaped to ''Prime's'' Ice Beam, can encase enemies or slow down movement in dark matter. Enemies encased in this dark matter cannot move and can be destroyed with a [[Missile]].
===''Metroid: Zero Mission''===
Unlike [[Metroid (game)|the original game]], the Ice Beam is only found in its Norfair location. In order to get to it, Samus must use the [[Power Grip]] to traverse over blocks above a sea of magma. As before, it allows enemies to be frozen and used as platforms, but it now follows ''[[Super Metroid]]'''s iteration in that it does increased damage to foes, and rather than freezing them instantly, it instead freezes them when they take enough damage. The weapon is also capable of being stacked with the Wave Beam now, giving Samus the properties of both. Unlike the original game, the Ice Beam is definitely needed as all Metroids in Tourian must be destroyed in order to progress towards [[Mother Brain]].


The Ice Beam was absent in ''Metroid Prime Hunters'', which features a similar weapon known as the [[Judicator]]. The Judicator is the [[Affinity Weapon]] of the [[Bounty Hunter|bounty hunter]] [[Noxus]]. This weapon shoots plasma at sub-zero temperatures.
===''Metroid Prime''===
While exploring the [[Chozo Ruins]], Samus comes across the Ice Beam in the [[Antechamber]]. With it, she can shoot low temperature shots from her [[Arm Cannon]]. The Ice Beam's shots, however, are far slower than any other [[Beam|beam]], limiting its usefulness in rapid-fire combat. [[Charge Beam|Charged]] shots can freeze certain enemies solid, leaving them open to be smacked with a Missile and shattered, though certain foes won't be affected by this. The Charge Beam is also capable of letting the Ice Beam use the [[Ice Spreader]] once Samus finds it. Frozen enemies cannot be used as platforms.


''Metroid Prime 3: Corruption'' also lacked an Ice Beam, however there were [[Ice Missile]]s. These Missiles could freeze enemies. Unlike earlier ''Prime'' games, a frozen enemy cannot be shattered with a Missile. To the contrary, Missiles are deflected from a frozen body. They can, however, be shattered with a [[Charge Beam|Charged shot]]. The Ice Missiles can also be used with the [[Seeker Missile]] [[upgrade]] to launch multiple Ice Missiles at once.
In the original Gamecube version of [[Metroid Prime (game)|Metroid Prime]], the Ice Beam causes a frigid aura to emerge from the Arm Cannon (and charging it freezes it over), but this effect is removed in the ''[[New Play Control! Metroid Prime|New Play Control!]]''/''[[Metroid Prime Trilogy]]'' releases owing to the new motion-controlled aiming.


===''Metroid II: Return of Samus''===
===''Metroid II: Return of Samus''===
[[File:Ice Beam m2 Artwork.png|thumb|left|Ice Beam artwork from ''[[Metroid II: Return of Samus]]'']]
[[File:Ice Beam m2 Artwork.png|right|Ice Beam artwork from ''[[Metroid II: Return of Samus]]'']]
The Ice Beam appears relatively early in ''Metroid II: Return of Samus''. It is unchanged in ability in the game. However, its projectiles appear to have spiked edges.
The Ice Beam appears relatively early in Samus's excursion to [[SR388]], within Chozo ruins behind a [[Red Door]]. The weapon can once more freeze foes into makeshift platforms, but unlike ''Metroid'', frozen enemies stay frozen after being shot again, making it quicker to kill foes with it. As before, though, it is replaced if Samus picks up another beam upgrade. The Ice Beam appears again in an area with the [[Spazer Beam|Spazer]], Wave and [[Plasma Beam|Plasma]] Beams, but the entrance to the final area contains a third Ice Beam. This is fortunate, as juvenile Metroids infest the area and can only be damaged when frozen, unlike their later evolutions.
{{clear|left}}


===''Super Metroid''===
===''Super Metroid''===
[[File:Ice Beam sm Artwork.png|thumb|Ice Beam artwork from ''[[Super Metroid]]'']]
[[File:Ice Beam sm Artwork.png|left|Ice Beam artwork from ''[[Super Metroid]]'']]
The Ice Beam also appeared in ''Super Metroid''. Here, Samus could also freeze enemies for platform use. The upgrade is located in the first area of Norfair, and the [[Speed Booster]] is required to gain access. Fortunately, unlike the predecessors, the Ice Beam upgrade increases damage caused to enemies, and only freezes them when they have taken enough damage. Frozen enemies, curiously, could not be Speed Boosted through.
While in Norfair, Samus can locate the Ice Beam in an area to the left of the entrance, but the [[Speed Booster]] is needed to access it. With it, Samus's beam becomes more powerful and freezes enemies. Unlike before, it only does so when an enemy has taken enough damage, making it even less tedious to fight enemies with it. The weapon can also be combined with other beams, giving it their properties.
{{clear|left}}


===''Metroid: Other M''===
===''Metroid: Other M''===
Authorized in [[Sector 3 (Pyrosphere)|Pyrosphere]], the Ice Beam can freeze small enemies. Unlike other games, frozen enemies cannot be stood upon. The upgrade is required to defeat many bosses in ''Other M''.
Authorized in the [[Sector 3 (Pyrosphere)|Pyrosphere]], the Ice Beam can freeze small enemies. Adam authorizes the weapon while Samus battles enhanced [[Zebesian]]s and other enemies with increased shielding capabilities. The upgrade is required to defeat many bosses in ''Other M''. Aside from its increased power, the freezing ability of the Ice Beam becomes useful. It is also required to bypass certain obstructions, such as freezing a platform in place. Unlike other games, frozen enemies cannot be used as platforms, but the weapon does set some enemies up for an [[Overblast]] or a [[Lethal Strike]]. Also unlike other games, frozen enemies fall due to gravity instead of staying in place. Most freezable enemies are only partially freezable; that is, only a section of their bodies is frozen. For example, [[Dessgeega]] are frozen only at the legs, and Zebesians' claws are frozen shut.
 
===''Metroid Fusion''===
Although Samus owns the Ice Beam at the start, she loses it due to an [[X Parasite]] infecting her suit, requiring pieces of it to be surgically removed. The vaccine that purges the parasite also alters her cellular structure to become part Metroid, giving her their weakness to cold and preventing her from using the Ice Beam (using [[Ice Missile]]s as a substitute). The [[SA-X]], however, uses the Ice Beam's deadly effect against Samus, being able to freeze her solid and do immense damage. While fighting against it on the [[Main Deck]], she manages to reduce it to a [[Core-X]], but it flies away before she can absorb it. This SA-X soon shows up to fight the [[Omega Metroid]] just as the [[Biologic Space Labs Research Station]] falls towards SR388, but is reduced to its Core-X again, though this time Samus absorbs it. This act restores her cellular structure to its original state, granting her the Ice Beam and the ability to use it with no ill-effect to herself, and she promptly uses it to kill the Omega Metroid and escape.
{{clear}}
{{clear}}
===Other===
 
===Other Appearances===
====''Metroid'' Manga====
[[File:Metroid ch16 pg22.jpg|thumb|left|120px|The Ice Beam's sole panel]]
[[File:Metroid ch16 pg22.jpg|thumb|left|120px|The Ice Beam's sole panel]]
The Ice Beam made one extremely brief appearance in the Metroid Manga. Samus presumably obtained the Ice Beam between the time she left the [[Galactic Federation|Federation]] and when she returned to complete her Zero Mission. Samus shoots the Ice Beam, [[Wave Beam]], and [[Plasma Beam]] once against [[Ridley]].
The Ice Beam made one extremely brief appearance in the Metroid Manga. Samus presumably obtained the Ice Beam between the time she left the [[Galactic Federation|Federation]] and when she returned to complete her Zero Mission. Samus shoots the Ice Beam, [[Wave Beam]], and [[Plasma Beam]] once against [[Ridley]].
{{spoiler}}
[[File:Brug Mass 2.jpg|thumb|right|180px|The Freeze Gun in use]]
In ''Other M'', aside from Samus's Ice Beam, the [[Galactic Federation 07th Platoon]] is armed with notable [[Freeze Gun]]s. These guns are vital to the plot's advancement. They are used to defeat the game's first boss, [[Brug Mass]]. It appears later in the game as well, saving [[Anthony Higgs|Higgs']] life and the cause of death of [[Maurice Favreau]].


In ''Metroid Fusion'', the Ice Beam only appears under Samus's control in the cutscene starting the game and the very end of those events. Throughout the game, it is under the [[SA-X|SA-Xs']] control, due to it having [[X Parasite|mimicked]] Samus while she had it in her arsenal. At the end of the game, once Samus defeats a SA-X and its mutant form on the [[Main Deck]], it's X escapes. However once Samus reaches the [[Omega Metroid]], Samus absorbs the SA-X, returning her previous Ice Beam capabilities to her. Strangely, Samus was told that she would be unable to regain the Ice Beam functionality due to her changed cellular structure, as her DNA changed to resemble that of a Metroid, and Metroids are vulnerable to extreme cold.
==Similar Weapons==
===Dark Beam===
{{main|Dark Beam}}
While the Ice Beam is absent in ''[[Metroid Prime 2: Echoes]]'', the [[Dark Beam]] functions identically to it as it was in ''Metroid Prime'', only encasing enemies in dark matter and not ice.
 
===Judicator===
{{main|Judicator}}
The [[Judicator]] is the [[Affinity Weapon]] of the [[Bounty Hunter|bounty hunter]] [[Noxus]]. This weapon shoots plasma at sub-zero temperatures.


Ice Missiles also appeared in ''Fusion''. These Missiles can, like other ice-based weaponry, freeze enemies. Frozen enemies can, again, be used as platforms. There is an upgrade to these Missiles known as the [[Diffusion Missile]]. This Missile upgrade allows Samus to charge her Missiles. Upon release a circle of a freezing medium will appear throughout the area. This weapon is necessary to defeat the SA-X.
===Ice Missiles===
{{main|Ice Missile}}
''[[Metroid Prime 3: Corruption]]'' lacks the Ice Beam, but does have Ice Missiles. These freeze enemies on impact, but as a consequence can't shatter frozen foes. ''[[Metroid Fusion]]'' also has Samus use Ice Missiles, owing to her inability to use the Ice Beam.


===Freeze Gun===
{{main|Freeze Gun}}
[[File:Brug Mass 2.jpg|thumb|right|180px|The Freeze Gun in use]]
In ''[[Metroid: Other M]]'', the [[Galactic Federation 07th Platoon]] is armed with notable [[Freeze Gun]]s, which act very similarly to Samus's Ice Beam.
{{clear}}
{{clear}}


==Manual==
==Data==
{{Manual|m1|Ice Beam|This allows you to freeze an enemy temporarily. If you already have a [[Long Beam|long beam]], then the ice beam becomes a long ice beam. This can't be used at the same time as the wave beam. When you freeze an enemy, you can climb over it.<ref>{{Cite manual|This allows you to freeze an enemy temporarily. If you already have a long beam, then the ice beam becomes a long ice beam. This can't be used at the same time as the wave beam. When you freeze an enemy, you can climb over it.|Metroid|22}}</ref>}}
===Manuals===
{{Manual|zm|Ice Beam|This weapon allows Samus to freeze enemies temporarily. Samus can stand on frozen enemies.<ref>{{Cite manual|This weapon allows Samus to freeze enemies temporarily. Samus can stand on frozen enemies.|Metroid: Zero Mission|25}}</ref>}}
{{Manual
{{Manual|mp1|Ice Beam|The Ice Beam has a slower rate of fire than the Power Beam, but it makes up for this flaw with its ability to immobilize enemies briefly with a layer of ice. Some enemies are particularly vulnerable to this weapon, so experiment with it. The Ice Beam may destroy weak enemies rather than {{sic|freezing|freeze}} them.<ref>{{Cite manual|The Ice Beam has a slower rate of fire than the Power Beam, but it makes up for this flaw with its ability to immobilize enemies briefly with a layer of ice. Some enemies are particularly vulnerable to this weapon, so experiment with it. The Ice Beam may destroy weak enemies rather than freezing them.|Metroid Prime|17}}</ref>}}
|game=m1
{{Manual|tri|Ice Beam|This beam can stop some enemies by freezing them. It has a slower rate of fire and cannot do rapid-fire, but the force of each shot is more powerful than the Power Beam.<ref>{{Cite manual|This beam can stop some enemies by freezing them. It has a slower rate of fire and cannot do rapid-fire, but the force of each shot is more powerful than the Power Beam.|Metroid Prime: Trilogy|14}}</ref>}}
|name=Ice Beam
{{Manual|m2|Ice Beam|This beam will freeze an enemy for a short period of time, making them unable to move. Samus can jump on a frozen enemy without receiving damage.<ref>{{Cite manual|This beam will freeze an enemy for a short period of time, making them unable to move. Samus can jump on a frozen enemy without receiving damage.|Metroid II: Return of Samus|21}}</ref>}}
|entry=This allows you to freeze an enemy temporarily. If you already have a [[Long Beam|long beam]], then the ice beam becomes a long ice beam. This can't be used at the same time as the wave beam. When you freeze an enemy, you can climb over it.<ref>{{Cite manual|This allows you to freeze an enemy temporarily. If you already have a long beam, then the ice beam becomes a long ice beam. This can't be used at the same time as the wave beam. When you freeze an enemy, you can climb over it.|Metroid|22}}</ref>
{{Manual|sm|Ice|The Ice Beam freezes enemies for a short time. You can use frozen enemies as platforms.<ref>{{Cite manual|The Ice Beam freezes enemies for a short time. You can use frozen enemies as platforms.|Super Metroid|23}}</ref>}}
|order=top
{{Manual|om|Ice Beam|Adds the ability to freeze enemies. Effective against hot creatures, it also increases the beam's attack power. You can also fire Charge Beams.<ref>{{Cite manual|Adds the ability to freeze enemies. Effective against hot creatures, it also increases the beam's attack power. You can also fire Charge Beams.|Metroid: Other M|19}}</ref>}}
|image=[[File:Ice Beam m1 Manual Image.jpg|Ice Beam - Metroid]]
}}
{{Manual
|game=zm
|name=Ice Beam
|entry=This weapon allows Samus to freeze enemies temporarily. Samus can stand on frozen enemies.<ref>{{Cite manual|This weapon allows Samus to freeze enemies temporarily. Samus can stand on frozen enemies.|Metroid: Zero Mission|25}}</ref>
|order=middle
|image=[[File:Ice Beam zm Manual Image.jpg|Ice Beam - Zero Mission]]
}}
{{Manual
|game=mp1
|name=Ice Beam
|entry=The Ice Beam has a slower rate of fire than the Power Beam, but it makes up for this flaw with its ability to immobilize enemies briefly with a layer of ice. Some enemies are particularly vulnerable to this weapon, so experiment with it. The Ice Beam may destroy weak enemies rather than {{sic|freezing|freeze}} them.<ref>{{Cite manual|The Ice Beam has a slower rate of fire than the Power Beam, but it makes up for this flaw with its ability to immobilize enemies briefly with a layer of ice. Some enemies are particularly vulnerable to this weapon, so experiment with it. The Ice Beam may destroy weak enemies rather than freezing them.|Metroid Prime|17}}</ref>
|order=middle
|image=[[File:Ice Beam mp1 Manual Image.jpg|Ice Beam - Prime]]
}}
{{Manual
|game=mpt
|name=Ice Beam
|entry=This beam can stop some enemies by freezing them. It has a slower rate of fire and cannot do rapid-fire, but the force of each shot is more powerful than the Power Beam.<ref>{{Cite manual|This beam can stop some enemies by freezing them. It has a slower rate of fire and cannot do rapid-fire, but the force of each shot is more powerful than the Power Beam.|Metroid Prime: Trilogy|14}}</ref>
|order=middle
|image=[[File:Ice Beam mpt Manual Image.jpg|Ice Beam - Trilogy]]
}}
{{Manual
|game=m2
|name=Ice Beam
|entry=This beam will freeze an enemy for a short period of time, making them unable to move. Samus can jump on a frozen enemy without receiving damage.<ref>{{Cite manual|This beam will freeze an enemy for a short period of time, making them unable to move. Samus can jump on a frozen enemy without receiving damage.|Metroid II: Return of Samus|21}}</ref>
|order=middle
|image=[[File:Ice Beam m2 Manual Image 1.jpg|Ice Beam - Metroid II]]<br />[[File:Ice Beam m2 Manual Image 2.png|Ice Beam - Metroid II]]
}}
{{Manual
|game=sm
|name=Ice
|entry=The Ice Beam freezes enemies for a short time. You can use frozen enemies as platforms.<ref>{{Cite manual|The Ice Beam freezes enemies for a short time. You can use frozen enemies as platforms.|Super Metroid|23}}</ref>
|order=middle
|image=[[File:Ice Beam sm Manual Image.jpg|Ice Beam - Super Metroid]]
}}
{{Manual
|game=om
|name=Ice Beam
|entry=Adds the ability to freeze enemies. Effective against hot creatures, it also increases the beam's attack power. You can also fire Charge Beams.<ref>{{Cite manual|Adds the ability to freeze enemies. Effective against hot creatures, it also increases the beam's attack power. You can also fire Charge Beams.|Metroid: Other M|19}}</ref>
|order=bottom
|image=[[File:Ice Beam om Manual Image.jpg|Ice Beam - Other M]]
}}
{{clear|left}}


==In Game Data==
===Screen Data===
{{screendata|om|Ice Beam has been added to your beam. You can now freeze targets with the Charge Beam.<ref>{{cite|Ice Beam has been added to your beam. You can now freeze targets with the Charge Beam.|Screen Data|[[Metroid: Other M]]}}</ref>}}
{{screendata|om|Ice Beam has been added to your beam. You can now freeze targets with the Charge Beam.<ref>{{cite|Ice Beam has been added to your beam. You can now freeze targets with the Charge Beam.|Screen Data|[[Metroid: Other M]]}}</ref>}}


==See Also==
==Gallery==
*[[Ice Missile]]
<gallery>
*[[Ice Shield]]
File:Ice Beam om Website 01.png|Japanese Website (''Other M'')
*[[Diffusion Missile]]
File:Ice Beam om Website 02.png|American Website (''Other M'')
*[[Freeze Gun]]
</gallery>


{{clear}}
{{Refbar}}
{{Refbar}}
{{beams}}
{{beam-nav}}
[[Category:Weapons]]
[[Category:Weapons]]
[[Category:Beams]]
[[Category:Beams]]
[[Category:Arm Cannon]]
[[Category:Arm Cannon]]
[[Category:Chozo Technology]]

Latest revision as of 17:04, 1 February 2024

Ice Beam
The Ice Beam is capable of freezing enemies solid

The Ice Beam is capable of freezing enemies solid

Game(s)
Users
Located in
Authorized in

Sector 3 (Pyrosphere) Metroid: Other M

Charge Combo
Properties

Capable of freezing most enemies


The Ice Beam is a weapon which has been used regularly by Samus Aran, absent only in Metroid Prime 2: Echoes, Metroid Prime Hunters, and Metroid Prime 3: Corruption. Like many upgrades to the Power Suit, the weapon is of Chozo design. When fired, it produces a frigid beam that can freeze many targets. Frozen targets can then be destroyed by a Missile impact, or used as platforms. Due to their sensitivity to cold, the Ice Beam is a potent weapon in the extermination of Metroids. This weapon has appeared in nearly every game in the Metroid series, and has played a vital role in each appearances.

Appearances[edit | edit source]

Metroid[edit | edit source]

Ice Beam artwork from Metroid
Ice Beam artwork from Metroid

The Ice Beam is present in two locations - Brinstar, where it is found fairly close to the location of the Bombs, and in a hidden area in the upper right corner of Norfair. Both locations, however, require the use of the Bombs. With the Ice Beam, Samus is able to freeze enemies solid with a single shot, with another shot afterwards doing damage and unfreezing them (that is, if they're not invincible like Rippers). These enemies can then be used as makeshift platforms to reach higher places. However, they will thaw after a while, and killing them with just the beam takes twice as many shots as it normally would, making it more practical to use Missiles to kill them. In addition, it cannot stack with the Wave Beam, meaning collecting one will replace the other (though the old beam does return to its original location(s)). Although the weapon isn't strictly necessary, Samus would be hard pressed to clear Tourian without it.

Metroid: Zero Mission[edit | edit source]

Unlike the original game, the Ice Beam is only found in its Norfair location. In order to get to it, Samus must use the Power Grip to traverse over blocks above a sea of magma. As before, it allows enemies to be frozen and used as platforms, but it now follows Super Metroid's iteration in that it does increased damage to foes, and rather than freezing them instantly, it instead freezes them when they take enough damage. The weapon is also capable of being stacked with the Wave Beam now, giving Samus the properties of both. Unlike the original game, the Ice Beam is definitely needed as all Metroids in Tourian must be destroyed in order to progress towards Mother Brain.

Metroid Prime[edit | edit source]

While exploring the Chozo Ruins, Samus comes across the Ice Beam in the Antechamber. With it, she can shoot low temperature shots from her Arm Cannon. The Ice Beam's shots, however, are far slower than any other beam, limiting its usefulness in rapid-fire combat. Charged shots can freeze certain enemies solid, leaving them open to be smacked with a Missile and shattered, though certain foes won't be affected by this. The Charge Beam is also capable of letting the Ice Beam use the Ice Spreader once Samus finds it. Frozen enemies cannot be used as platforms.

In the original Gamecube version of Metroid Prime, the Ice Beam causes a frigid aura to emerge from the Arm Cannon (and charging it freezes it over), but this effect is removed in the New Play Control!/Metroid Prime Trilogy releases owing to the new motion-controlled aiming.

Metroid II: Return of Samus[edit | edit source]

Ice Beam artwork from Metroid II: Return of Samus
Ice Beam artwork from Metroid II: Return of Samus

The Ice Beam appears relatively early in Samus's excursion to SR388, within Chozo ruins behind a Red Door. The weapon can once more freeze foes into makeshift platforms, but unlike Metroid, frozen enemies stay frozen after being shot again, making it quicker to kill foes with it. As before, though, it is replaced if Samus picks up another beam upgrade. The Ice Beam appears again in an area with the Spazer, Wave and Plasma Beams, but the entrance to the final area contains a third Ice Beam. This is fortunate, as juvenile Metroids infest the area and can only be damaged when frozen, unlike their later evolutions.

Super Metroid[edit | edit source]

Ice Beam artwork from Super Metroid
Ice Beam artwork from Super Metroid

While in Norfair, Samus can locate the Ice Beam in an area to the left of the entrance, but the Speed Booster is needed to access it. With it, Samus's beam becomes more powerful and freezes enemies. Unlike before, it only does so when an enemy has taken enough damage, making it even less tedious to fight enemies with it. The weapon can also be combined with other beams, giving it their properties.

Metroid: Other M[edit | edit source]

Authorized in the Pyrosphere, the Ice Beam can freeze small enemies. Adam authorizes the weapon while Samus battles enhanced Zebesians and other enemies with increased shielding capabilities. The upgrade is required to defeat many bosses in Other M. Aside from its increased power, the freezing ability of the Ice Beam becomes useful. It is also required to bypass certain obstructions, such as freezing a platform in place. Unlike other games, frozen enemies cannot be used as platforms, but the weapon does set some enemies up for an Overblast or a Lethal Strike. Also unlike other games, frozen enemies fall due to gravity instead of staying in place. Most freezable enemies are only partially freezable; that is, only a section of their bodies is frozen. For example, Dessgeega are frozen only at the legs, and Zebesians' claws are frozen shut.

Metroid Fusion[edit | edit source]

Although Samus owns the Ice Beam at the start, she loses it due to an X Parasite infecting her suit, requiring pieces of it to be surgically removed. The vaccine that purges the parasite also alters her cellular structure to become part Metroid, giving her their weakness to cold and preventing her from using the Ice Beam (using Ice Missiles as a substitute). The SA-X, however, uses the Ice Beam's deadly effect against Samus, being able to freeze her solid and do immense damage. While fighting against it on the Main Deck, she manages to reduce it to a Core-X, but it flies away before she can absorb it. This SA-X soon shows up to fight the Omega Metroid just as the Biologic Space Labs Research Station falls towards SR388, but is reduced to its Core-X again, though this time Samus absorbs it. This act restores her cellular structure to its original state, granting her the Ice Beam and the ability to use it with no ill-effect to herself, and she promptly uses it to kill the Omega Metroid and escape.

Other Appearances[edit | edit source]

Metroid Manga[edit | edit source]

The Ice Beam's sole panel

The Ice Beam made one extremely brief appearance in the Metroid Manga. Samus presumably obtained the Ice Beam between the time she left the Federation and when she returned to complete her Zero Mission. Samus shoots the Ice Beam, Wave Beam, and Plasma Beam once against Ridley.

Similar Weapons[edit | edit source]

Dark Beam[edit | edit source]

Main article: Dark Beam

While the Ice Beam is absent in Metroid Prime 2: Echoes, the Dark Beam functions identically to it as it was in Metroid Prime, only encasing enemies in dark matter and not ice.

Judicator[edit | edit source]

Main article: Judicator

The Judicator is the Affinity Weapon of the bounty hunter Noxus. This weapon shoots plasma at sub-zero temperatures.

Ice Missiles[edit | edit source]

Main article: Ice Missile

Metroid Prime 3: Corruption lacks the Ice Beam, but does have Ice Missiles. These freeze enemies on impact, but as a consequence can't shatter frozen foes. Metroid Fusion also has Samus use Ice Missiles, owing to her inability to use the Ice Beam.

Freeze Gun[edit | edit source]

Main article: Freeze Gun
The Freeze Gun in use

In Metroid: Other M, the Galactic Federation 07th Platoon is armed with notable Freeze Guns, which act very similarly to Samus's Ice Beam.

Data[edit | edit source]

Manuals[edit | edit source]

Manual Entries
Manual info from Metroid

Ice Beam - Metroid

Ice Beam: This allows you to freeze an enemy temporarily. If you already have a long beam, then the ice beam becomes a long ice beam. This can't be used at the same time as the wave beam. When you freeze an enemy, you can climb over it.[1]
Manual info from Metroid: Zero Mission

Ice Beam - Zero Mission

Ice Beam: This weapon allows Samus to freeze enemies temporarily. Samus can stand on frozen enemies.[2]
Manual info from Metroid Prime

Ice Beam - Prime

Ice Beam: The Ice Beam has a slower rate of fire than the Power Beam, but it makes up for this flaw with its ability to immobilize enemies briefly with a layer of ice. Some enemies are particularly vulnerable to this weapon, so experiment with it. The Ice Beam may destroy weak enemies rather than freezing[sic] them.[3]
Manual info from Metroid Prime Trilogy

Ice Beam - Trilogy

Ice Beam: This beam can stop some enemies by freezing them. It has a slower rate of fire and cannot do rapid-fire, but the force of each shot is more powerful than the Power Beam.[4]
Manual info from Metroid II: Return of Samus

Ice Beam - Metroid II
Ice Beam - Metroid II

Ice Beam: This beam will freeze an enemy for a short period of time, making them unable to move. Samus can jump on a frozen enemy without receiving damage.[5]
Manual info from Super Metroid

Ice Beam - Super Metroid

Ice: The Ice Beam freezes enemies for a short time. You can use frozen enemies as platforms.[6]
Manual info from Metroid: Other M

Ice Beam - Other M

Ice Beam: Adds the ability to freeze enemies. Effective against hot creatures, it also increases the beam's attack power. You can also fire Charge Beams.[7]

Screen Data[edit | edit source]

Screen data from Metroid: Other M
Ice Beam has been added to your beam. You can now freeze targets with the Charge Beam.[8]

Gallery[edit | edit source]

  • Japanese Website (Other M)

    Japanese Website (Other M)

  • American Website (Other M)

    American Website (Other M)

References

  1. ↑ "This allows you to freeze an enemy temporarily. If you already have a long beam, then the ice beam becomes a long ice beam. This can't be used at the same time as the wave beam. When you freeze an enemy, you can climb over it." Metroid Instruction Booklet, Pg 22
  2. ↑ "This weapon allows Samus to freeze enemies temporarily. Samus can stand on frozen enemies." Metroid: Zero Mission Instruction Booklet, Pg 25
  3. ↑ "The Ice Beam has a slower rate of fire than the Power Beam, but it makes up for this flaw with its ability to immobilize enemies briefly with a layer of ice. Some enemies are particularly vulnerable to this weapon, so experiment with it. The Ice Beam may destroy weak enemies rather than freezing them." Metroid Prime Instruction Booklet, Pg 17
  4. ↑ "This beam can stop some enemies by freezing them. It has a slower rate of fire and cannot do rapid-fire, but the force of each shot is more powerful than the Power Beam." Metroid Prime: Trilogy Instruction Booklet, Pg 14
  5. ↑ "This beam will freeze an enemy for a short period of time, making them unable to move. Samus can jump on a frozen enemy without receiving damage." Metroid II: Return of Samus Instruction Booklet, Pg 21
  6. ↑ "The Ice Beam freezes enemies for a short time. You can use frozen enemies as platforms." Super Metroid Instruction Booklet, Pg 23
  7. ↑ "Adds the ability to freeze enemies. Effective against hot creatures, it also increases the beam's attack power. You can also fire Charge Beams." Metroid: Other M Instruction Booklet, Pg 19
  8. ↑ "Ice Beam has been added to your beam. You can now freeze targets with the Charge Beam." —Screen Data (Metroid: Other M)


Annihilator Beam 2.png Beams of Metroid Light Beam (Echoes).png
Beam Weapons
Beam Upgrades
Charge Combos
Affinity Weapons
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