10 Hidden Mechanics That Totally Change Video Games

The original Super Metroid was full of systems and mechanics the game didn't bother to explain whatsoever. This approach added a lot to the mysterious feeling of exploration, which is what made it so memorable. However, some of those secrets were incredibly useful.

One of the more perplexing mechanics in the game were special moves, which required the player to perform a series of combos in order to activate Samus's hidden abilities. Some were more applicable than others, but the one that has to take the cake for being the most practical (and arguably the coolest looking) is called "Crystal Flash".

Crystal Flash is an ability that can be activated as soon as Samus's health drops below fifty. The ability causes Samus to curl into a pink orb and quickly replenish huge amounts of health. It costs ten missiles and bombs to use, but the healing you get in return is well worth it.

A nifty trick for when you're in a pinch and need to quickly get some health back, sadly nothing in the game indicates that Samus is even capable of doing it, and decades later, Metroid fans discover this for the first time.