Metroid Prime 4: What We Know So Far
Release Date and Platforms
Although many had hoped for a 2024 release, Nintendo has confirmed that Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is now scheduled for 2025, exclusively on the Nintendo Switch. This announcement came alongside updates on Nintendo’s official Metroid website, solidifying the 2025 release window. No mention has been made of other platforms.
What to Expect
Information about Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is still relatively scarce. The game was first announced at E3 2017, but development was restarted in 2019 under Retro Studios, the team behind the original Metroid Prime trilogy. This shift in development explains the lengthy wait.
From the brief trailer shown during the September 2024 Nintendo Direct, it’s clear that the game will return to the first-person exploration and combat that fans loved in the Prime series. The trailer featured Samus Aran exploring what looks like a space station or ship, with glimpses of familiar enemies and environments.
Comparison to Previous Metroid Prime Games
The Metroid Prime series is known for its immersive atmosphere, intricate level design, and engaging gameplay. Here’s a quick comparison of the previous main entries:
Game | Release Year | Key Features |
Metroid Prime | 2002 | First 3D game in the series, establishing the first-person perspective. |
Metroid Prime 2: Echoes | 2004 | Introduced dark and light worlds, adding depth to exploration. |
Metroid Prime 3: Corruption | 2007 | Focused on narrative and cinematic elements, incorporating the Wii’s motion controls. |
Fans are eager to see Metroid Prime 4: Beyond expand on the strengths of its predecessors, while adding fresh features and innovations.
Rumors and Speculation
With the lengthy development process, there has been plenty of speculation and rumors. Some suggest that the game might include more open-world elements, while others hint at a stronger focus on the narrative. However, without official confirmation from Nintendo, these rumors should be treated cautiously.
Questions Fans Are Asking
- Will Metroid Prime 4: Beyond feature motion controls like Metroid Prime 3: Corruption? This seems unlikely, given the Nintendo Switch’s focus on standard controls.
- Will there be a multiplayer mode? There’s no indication of this at the moment.
- Will the game be connected to the broader Metroid timeline? It’s expected to, though the exact details remain unclear.