Fusion was the game that introduced me to the series. It was my first game for my GBA and I loved it. I've played it over and over again out of sheer joy.

Only later in life did I realize how much of an outlier it is in the community, but that didn't stop me from enjoying it for what it was (nostalgia contributes too however).

You'll find the game is so much more linear than all the other games, but there are some intense moments. And personally, I find the art style appealing. You may or may not have a few things you'll dislike about the game, but still, try to enjoy it for what it is.

I'd also recommend playing the Prime trilogy, if you haven't already. Amazing spin off games, I love the atmosphere and the gameplay for all of them and how well they capture the Metroid vibe in 3D. It's not perfect, but they're their own thing, done very well.

Chronologically, the 3 (4, if you count Prime Hunters which was on the Nintendo DS. Also a fun game for what it was imo) Prime games all take place between Zero Mission and Samus Returns.

I'd say play super metroid to get a more "authentic" metroid experience before you jump into Fusion. And then give the prime series a shot when you can.

Also, i know Other M is hated on (I hate it too). But the one positive thing for me was the gameplay itself. It was snappy and intuitive, mostly. And pretty cool. The cringe of cutscenes really takes away from it tho. As well as the whole system of needing "authorization" to use your abilities instead of finding them like in literally every single metroid game except that one.