Fans of the Metroid Prime franchise have been eagerly awaiting the release of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond since its announcement following the debut of the Nintendo Switch. The game, which has been in development for over eight years, is set for release after the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. Despite the long wait, it’s confirmed that the game is on track to arrive this year, and I recently experienced a preview of it at a Nintendo Switch 2 event.
Gameplay Experience
The demo showcased at the preview was concise, featuring the introduction and the first boss encounter. Players join Samus as she navigates a chaotic battle between the Federation Force and Space Pirates on the planet Tenmaar. Unlike the traditional solitary atmosphere often found in Metroid games, this segment was packed with action and intense conflict.
Control Mechanics
A major focus of the demo was to highlight different control schemes, especially the newly introduced mouse controls. The responsiveness of the mouse aiming was a positive aspect, and using the Joy-Con in a horizontal position felt surprisingly comfortable. However, the implementation still requires some improvement; specific actions, like entering the Morph Ball, necessitate using face buttons on the Joy-Con, which disrupts the fluidity of mouse control. A streamlined control scheme that eliminates reliance on face buttons while using the mouse would enhance gameplay experience.
Combat and AI Design
The combat mechanics felt traditional for an FPS, with lock-on targeting assisting players who struggle with shooting accuracy. However, the simplicity of the Space Pirate AI made battles feel less dynamic, resembling a shooting gallery. The inclusion of minimal Morph Ball sequences and scanning felt somewhat lackluster. The boss battle followed a familiar pattern of dodging while targeting weak points, which might not provide the depth players seek.
Visuals and Performance
Visually, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond appears comparable to early PS4 titles, showcasing refined models and environments. The demo ran impressively at 120 frames per second, presenting a fluidity that contrasts sharply with many previous Nintendo Switch titles that struggled with frame rate consistency. Retro Studios continues to demonstrate its expertise in maximizing hardware capabilities.
Overall Impressions
From my initial gameplay experience, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is likely to resonate with long-time fans of the series. While it may not drastically alter the franchise’s trajectory, it promises to be a polished and playable iteration. The mouse controls and high frame rate contribute to a positive outlook, but the final gameplay will reveal if additional elements, like exploration and puzzle-solving, are integrated. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is scheduled for launch on both the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 in 2025, and more details will emerge as the release date approaches.