This article is part of a directory: Metroid Dread: Complete Guide & Walkthrough
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With the many upgrades and doors in Metroid Dread, it can sometimes be tricky to figure out which of Samus' tools unlock which paths. In a game as complex and exploration-heavy as this, gamers must use their wits and problem-solving skills for more than taking down fierce bosses.

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After acquiring the Ice Missile upgrade from the deadly E.M.M.I. robot in Ghavoran, players can begin using this new variant of projectile weapon to clear routes that were previously inaccessible. Even though it's never a bad tactic in Metroid Dread to shoot everything with every kind of weapon, players can determine the right use for their Ice Missiles (besides freezing and shattering foes) by taking a look at some specific obstacles.

How To Use Ice Missiles

metroid dread ice missile tutorial message

Players can use Ice Missiles identically to how they use regular Missiles, which is to say that gamers will only need to hold down the R button to change weapon modes before pressing the Y button to fire missiles. There isn't any charging required, as the Ice Missile upgrade essentially overwrites the previous version of this armament.

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Freezing targets with Ice Missiles can be especially handy when dealing with larger non-boss foes. These bigger brutes can sometimes be frozen if they possess no natural armor that guards them against impacts, which can then let Samus shatter them into pieces with follow-up attacks.

Which Doors Are Opened With Ice Missiles

metroid dread samus shooting fire plant enky with ice missile

While not traditional doors, there are quite a few fiery plants around Planet ZDR that act like obstacles barring Samus' progress. These fire plants, called "Enky" in-game, can be destroyed by shooting them with an Ice Missile. Furthermore, after being destroyed, Enky fire plants do not regrow, meaning that the path they were previously blocking will now be totally open for the rest of one's playthrough.

It is most important to note that very shortly after getting the Ice Missile upgrade, players can now access the shuttle station to Ferenia in the southeast section of Ghavoran. Initially, the route to this shuttle station is blocked by Enky fire plants, however, now that the player has the Ice Missile upgrade, this will no longer be an issue.

Metroid Dread is available on the Nintendo Switch.

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