Yes, it is a joke. An old joke right up there with “ZOMG SHEIK’S ZELDA!”

Samus being female was a huge shock for everyone. I wasn’t even alive when the game came out, but I’ve heard plenty of stories about how surprised people were. I’m fairly certain it’s one of the greatest twists in video game history.

AND IT’S NOT BECAUSE GUYS WERE PLAYING AS A GIRL.

There weren’t exactly any strong female characters in the 80s, so it was more a shocker to realize, “Hey, this medium doesn’t have to be dominated by male characters.”

Honestly, if you want to get all up in arms about the Metroid series, take it up with Metroid: Other M. The whole game is a giant show of sexism against females that takes away any strength, personality, or individuality Samus had.