Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is finally here. After an 18-year wait since Metroid Prime 3, Retro Studios delivers a first-person adventure on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. It launched today, December 4, 2025. Samus Aran returns in her Power Suit, exploring alien worlds, scanning secrets, and battling horrors. Expect classic Metroid vibes with fresh twists.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond Story and Setting
In Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, you play as bounty hunter Samus, called by the Galactic Federation to protect an artifact. Rival hunter Sylux ambushes, stranding you on the mysterious planet Viewros. Uncover ruins, psychic powers, and a tale tying into Prime lore. No major spoilers, but it blends melancholy exploration with high-stakes action. New vehicle Vi-O-La (a motorbike) speeds between areas.
Gameplay
First-person shooter with heavy emphasis on puzzles and scanning. Morph Ball for tight spots, missiles, beams, and new psychic abilities for combat and traversal. Boss fights shine, level design wows with secrets everywhere. Vi-O-La adds fast travel and action. Playtime: 15-25 hours main story, 30+ for 100%.
Switch 2 Edition boosts it: 60 FPS (120 FPS performance mode handheld), 4K docked with HDR, mouse-like Joy-Con aiming. Original Switch holds 30 FPS solid. Day-one patch v1.1.0 adds amiibo support, rumble in cinematics.
File size: 20-25 GB. Single-player only.
Platforms and Requirements
Nintendo Switch family exclusive. Runs on original Switch (docked/handheld). Switch 2 enhances visuals/frame rates. No PC port announced.
Editions and Prices
- Switch Edition: $59.99 digital/physical.
- Switch 2 Edition: $69.99 (includes base game + upgrades).
- Upgrade Pack: $9.99 for Switch owners on Switch 2.
Amiibo: Samus ($29.99), Sylux ($29.99), Samus with Vi-O-La. Unlock suits, music, gallery art.
Buy digital on eShop, physical at Amazon $59.99/GameStop/Best Buy. AUS: $89.95/$109.95.
