Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, the highly anticipated continuation of the Metroid Prime series, is slated for release in 2025. Developed by Retro Studios and published by Nintendo, this installment marks the return of the iconic bounty hunter, Samus Aran, in a first-person action-adventure format.
Development Journey
Announced during E3 2017, Metroid Prime 4 initially began development under Bandai Namco Studios. However, in January 2019, Nintendo decided to restart the project with Retro Studios, the original developers of the Metroid Prime trilogy, to ensure the game's quality met fan expectations.
Release Date and Platforms
As of June 2024, Nintendo confirmed that Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is scheduled for a 2025 release. While the specific release date remains undisclosed, the game is expected to be available on the Nintendo Switch. Speculation suggests that an enhanced version may also be developed for Nintendo's next console, often referred to as the Nintendo Switch 2, though official confirmation is pending.
Gameplay and Storyline
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond continues the series' tradition of blending first-person shooting with exploration-based gameplay. Players will navigate interconnected environments, utilizing Samus's abilities to overcome obstacles and combat adversaries. The narrative picks up after the events of Metroid Prime 3: Corruption, where Samus eradicated the Phazon threat. The upcoming title is expected to delve deeper into her pursuit of the enigmatic bounty hunter, Sylux, who has been subtly teased in previous installments.
Anticipation and Pre-Order Details
The announcement of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond has generated significant excitement among fans. Pre-orders for the game are anticipated to open closer to the official release date. Notably, some early pre-orders from 2017 have been canceled due to the extended development period, prompting retailers to reset their pre-order systems.
Additional Content
In conjunction with the game's release, fans can look forward to "Metroid Prime 1-3: A Visual Retrospective," a 208-page hardcover art book scheduled for release on July 31, 2025. This publication offers an in-depth look into the art and development of the original Metroid Prime trilogy, providing enthusiasts with a comprehensive visual history of the series
As the release of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond approaches, fans eagerly await the opportunity to once again step into the shoes of Samus Aran and embark on a new interstellar adventure.