After an extensive wait of over 18 years, the highly anticipated fourth installment in the Metroid Prime series, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, is now available for preorder. Announced during a recent Nintendo Direct event, the game is scheduled to launch on December 4 for both the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Switch 2 console. In addition to the game, enthusiasts can also secure preorders for three brand-new Amiibo figures: a new Samus Amiibo and Samus on her Vi-O-La motorcycle, both set for release on November 6, and a Sylux Amiibo, which will coincide with the game`s launch day.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond Editions and Features
While Nintendo rarely offers preorder bonuses for its exclusive titles, and no retailers have yet announced specific incentives for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, such promotions may still emerge closer to the release date.
Nintendo Switch 2 Version
Priced at $70 and set to release on December 4, the Switch 2 version of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond includes the base game and a Switch 2 Upgrade Pack. The entire game is stored on the cartridge, minimizing the need for large digital downloads beyond essential patches. This edition offers substantial visual and performance enhancements:
- Graphics Modes (Docked): Experience stunning 4K resolution at 60 frames per second (fps) in Quality mode, or opt for a smoother 1080p resolution at 120fps in Performance mode.
- Graphics Modes (Handheld): Enjoy 1080p resolution at 60fps in Quality mode, or 720p at 120fps in Performance mode for portable play.
- High Dynamic Range (HDR): HDR is fully supported across all display modes.
- Control Options: Switch 2 players can utilize mouse controls with the Joy-Con 2 for precise aiming with Samus` arm cannon, with the flexibility to seamlessly switch between dual stick, mouse, and gyro motion controls at any time.
Original Nintendo Switch Version
For players on the original Nintendo Switch hardware, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is available for $60, also launching on December 4. Owners of this version, whether digital or physical, will have the option to upgrade to the enhanced Switch 2 edition for an additional $10.
New Metroid Prime 4 Amiibo Figures
Three new Amiibo figures expand the Metroid Prime 4: Beyond collection:
- Metroid Prime 4: Samus & Vi-O-La Amiibo ($40 | Releases November 6)
- Metroid Prime 4: Samus Amiibo ($30 | Releases November 6)
- Metroid Prime 4: Sylux Amiibo ($30 | Releases December 4)
Development Journey and Story Overview
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond was initially revealed at E3 2017. Although development began with Bandai Namco, the project was ultimately restarted in 2019 under the expertise of Retro Studios, the acclaimed developers behind the original Metroid Prime trilogy. The game`s production is now guided by Kensuke Tanabe, the original producer, and initial gameplay footage has received a promising reception from fans.
The narrative of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond continues after the events of Metroid Prime 3: Corruption. Samus Aran ventures to a previously unexplored planet named Viewros, inhabited by a unique musical alien race. These beings seek Samus` assistance to defend their world from an unknown threat. To aid her quest, they imbue Samus with new psychic abilities, allowing her to interact with ancient ruins and artifacts on Viewros and protect herself against its formidable creatures.
An earlier gameplay trailer also confirmed the appearance of Samus` enigmatic rival, Sylux, who is anticipated to play a pivotal role in the storyline. Fans can look forward to exploring the mysteries of Viewros through Samus` iconic visor very soon.
Enhance Your Metroid Experience
Revisit Previous Metroid Prime Adventures
While a complete Metroid Prime Trilogy for Switch has yet to be released, you can still immerse yourself in the critically acclaimed Metroid Prime Remastered for Nintendo Switch, a stunning modernization of the 2002 GameCube classic. Additionally, Samus` 2021 side-scrolling adventure, Metroid Dread, comes highly recommended for those seeking more Metroid action.
- Metroid Prime Remastered (Switch)
- Metroid Dread (Switch)
Metroid Prime-Themed Accessories
PowerA offers a selection of Metroid Prime-themed accessories:
- PowerA Metroid Prime Enhanced Wireless Controller ($70): Compatible with Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 via Bluetooth, this officially licensed controller features anti-friction joystick rings, motion controls, dual rumble motors, and remappable back buttons. It showcases a distinctive design of Samus Aran in her Varia Suit and offers up to 30 hours of gameplay on a single charge.
- PowerA Metroid Prime Trilogy Wired Gaming Earbuds ($25): These stylish earbuds feature Metroid iconography and include three swappable silicone tips, an inline microphone for voice chat, and 8mm dynamic audio drivers. A notable bonus is the included drawstring storage bag, adorned with key art from the original trilogy. (Note: The controller does not have a 3.5mm headphone jack, but the Switch 2 console supports wired earbuds.)
Metroid Prime 1-3: A Visual Retrospective Book
For dedicated lore enthusiasts, the official visual retrospective, Metroid Prime 1-3: A Visual Retrospective, is slated for release on October 28. This 208-page cloth hardcover book, created by the team behind the renowned Legend of Zelda strategy guides, is an essential read. It features concept art, sketches, illustrations, developer commentary from Retro Studios, and producer`s notes from Nintendo`s archives, covering all three original Prime games and Metroid Prime Remastered. The foreword is written by series producer Kensuke Tanabe, with each game section introduced by a developer from Retro Studios.