Samus Aran is the main character in Nintendo's Metroid video game series, and a playable fighter in the Super Smash Bros. games. Created by Makoto Kano, Samus first appeared in the original Metroid in 1986. She's a human woman raised by the Chozo, a bird-like species, and is the galaxy's most renowned bounty hunter. Samus is known for her confidence, intelligence, and independence, and is considered one of gaming's most important female characters.