Having played all of the 2d Metroids, Super Metroid still holds up very well, even compared to the newer games. There's less direction than what you might be used to though. Newer entries in the series tend to try to funnel you places. But if you are simply concerned about the gameplay being clunky, don't be.

Super Metroid way ahead of its time, and the controls are extremely responsive and tight. It's one of the reasons it's such a popular speed game. It's just fun to play. While basic controls are serviceable, there are many tricks you find yourself learning about as you play the game, which you just have access to, that give the movement system quite a bit of depth. (For hints, let the attract move run at the beginning of the game.)