Samus Aran's return in Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is poised to be a defining moment for the Nintendo Switch 2. Scheduled for release in 2025, this installment in the acclaimed Metroid Prime series promises to leverage the enhanced capabilities of Nintendo's new console, offering players a visually stunning and immersive experience.
The original Metroid Prime 4 was announced way back in 2017, but faced a development restart in 2019, with Retro Studios taking the helm. After a long wait, Nintendo finally revealed the game's title and released the first trailer in June 2024. Now, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is not only coming to the original Nintendo Switch, but also receiving a special "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition" that takes full advantage of the new hardware.
One of the most significant upgrades for the Switch 2 Edition is the enhanced visual fidelity. Players can choose between two display modes: a "Quality Mode" that runs at 4K resolution and 60 frames per second in TV mode (1080p in handheld mode), and a "Performance Mode" that prioritizes smoother gameplay at 120 frames per second in 1080p resolution (720p in handheld mode). Both modes will feature HDR support, delivering more vivid and vibrant colors.
These enhancements are made possible by the Nintendo Switch 2's custom NVIDIA processor, which boasts a ten-fold increase in graphics performance compared to the original Switch. The new console also incorporates dedicated RT Cores for real-time ray tracing, enabling lifelike lighting, reflections, and shadows. Tensor Cores power AI-driven features like Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS), which upscales lower-resolution images to enhance performance and image quality. The console also supports AI upscaling to sharpen visuals and smooth gameplay.
Beyond the visual upgrades, the Switch 2 Edition of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will also introduce new gameplay enhancements. One notable addition is the support for mouse controls using the new Joy-Con 2 controllers. This will allow players to aim and navigate with greater precision, offering a fresh and intuitive way to experience the game's first-person perspective.
The game itself will see Samus Aran exploring the mysterious planet Viewros, a verdant jungle world filled with ancient ruins and dangerous creatures. She'll encounter a new alien race called the Lamorn and wield psychic abilities. These powers will allow her to manipulate objects, solve puzzles, and control the trajectory of her beams, adding a new layer of depth to the gameplay.
For those who already own or plan to purchase the original Metroid Prime 4: Beyond for the Nintendo Switch, an upgrade path will be available. Players can purchase an upgrade pack from the Nintendo eShop, My Nintendo Store, or select retailers to unlock the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition features. The original Switch game will remain playable on the original console, while the enhanced content will be exclusive to the Switch 2.
With its stunning visuals, smooth performance, and innovative control options, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond on the Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be a must-have title for fans of the series and newcomers alike. As one of the first major releases to showcase the capabilities of the new console, it has the potential to set a new standard for immersive and engaging gaming experiences on the Nintendo platform. The game is scheduled to release in 2025, with many anticipating it will be a launch title for the new console.
