| Role | Key staging ground for space dragon mercenary operations |
| Planet type | Volcanic, high-gravity |
| Civilization | Center of space dragon civilization |
| Homeworld of | Space dragon species, including Ridley |
| Conflicts with | |
| Notable features | Diverse, dangerous native ecology |
| Reason for conflicts | Space dragons fiercely defend sovereignty and way of life against Federation encroachment |
Zebes is the homeworld of the technologically advanced, draconic species known as the "space dragons", including the infamous mercenary Ridley. A largely volcanic planet with a high-gravity environment, Zebes is the primary hub and stronghold for the space dragon civilization and its military/mercenary activities across the galaxy.
Zebes is a large terrestrial planet approximately 1.2 times the diameter of Earth, with a dense, metallic core and a mostly volcanic surface. The landscape is dominated by towering mountains, deep chasms, and vast lava flows, creating a harsh, inhospitable environment. Intense geothermal activity and potent tectonic forces shape the dynamic geology, with new landforms emerging and existing ones continuously shifting.
The atmosphere is composed primarily of nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and sulfur compounds, giving the sky a deep orange-red hue. Surface gravity is approximately 1.4G, requiring the space dragons' massive, muscular builds to move and function effectively. Numerous active volcanoes, sulfur geysers, and other seismic phenomena dot the landscape, posing constant dangers to the native lifeforms.
Despite the extreme conditions, Zebes supports a diverse and often deadly biosphere. Apex predators such as the fearsome Kihunters and Mellows roam the skies and forests, while hardy, subterranean organisms thrive in the planet's molten depths. The hardy, invasive Metroid species was first discovered on Zebes, leading to their widespread dispersal across the galaxy.
The space dragons are a technologically advanced, bipedal reptilian species native to Zebes. They have a long history of space exploration, interstellar trade, and mercenary activities, often clashing with the expansionist policies of the Galactic Federation.
Zebes serves as the central hub and command center for the space dragon civilization. Their cities are built into and around the planet's volcanic geography, utilizing advanced materials science and geothermal power to construct towering spires, fortress-like structures, and subterranean hive-complexes. Space dragon society is highly militarized, organized around a code of warrior honor and loyalty to the species.
Advanced alien technologies, including powerful plasma weaponry, anti-gravity flight systems, and sophisticated artificial intelligence, are ubiquitous on Zebes. These tools empower the space dragons as formidable mercenary contractors, bounty hunters, and covert operatives across known space.
The expansionist policies and centralized authority of the Galactic Federation have long been in conflict with the independence and self-determination of the space dragon civilization on Zebes. Frequent skirmishes, raids, and covert operations have erupted as the Federation attempts to bring Zebes and its resources under their control.
The space dragons, led by figures like Ridley, have resisted these efforts tenaciously, utilizing their advanced technology, combat skills, and knowledge of Zebes' treacherous environment. They view the Federation's encroachment as a threat to their ancient traditions and warrior culture, sparking fierce battles across the galaxy.
At times, the two powers have managed to broker temporary truces or alliances of convenience when their interests align. However, the fundamental clash between the Federation's imperialist ambitions and the space dragons' fierce independence has made Zebes a persistent source of tension and conflict in the wider galactic community.
