# **Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – What We Know So Far**
Nintendo enthusiasts have been eagerly counting down to the launch of *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond*, a title that has been in the works for several years. Announced initially in 2017, the game has faced numerous setbacks and a total development restart. Now, with a confirmed release window set for 2025, *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond* is poised to become one of the most eagerly awaited games for the Nintendo Switch—and potentially the upcoming Switch 2.
## **A Long-Awaited Sequel**
The *Metroid Prime* franchise, crafted by Retro Studios, stands as one of Nintendo’s most cherished series. The last main installment, *Metroid Prime 3: Corruption*, debuted in 2007 on the Nintendo Wii. Since that time, fans have been craving a new chapter in Samus Aran’s journey presented in the first-person action-adventure style that made the *Prime* series legendary.
Nintendo first announced *Metroid Prime 4* during E3 2017, but in 2019, the company disclosed that development would be rebooted from the ground up by Retro Studios, the original creators of the *Prime* trilogy. Although this announcement was met with disappointment, it ultimately reassured fans that the game would uphold the high quality associated with its predecessors.
## **Nintendo Confirms a 2025 Release**
In a recent investor question-and-answer session, Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa confirmed that *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond* is still anticipated for release on the Nintendo Switch in 2025. However, with the imminent launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, there has been speculation regarding whether the game will be available on the new hardware as well.
Nintendo has previously indicated that the majority of Switch titles will be playable on the Switch 2, suggesting that *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond* could function on both consoles. Some fans speculate that Nintendo might introduce two editions of the game—one tailored for the original Switch and a second, enhanced version for the Switch 2, akin to how *The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild* was released on both the Wii U and Switch in 2017.
## **What to Expect from Metroid Prime 4: Beyond**
While Nintendo has remained secretive about exact gameplay specifics, we can make informed predictions based on the *Prime* series’ heritage:
– **First-Person Exploration:** The *Metroid Prime* titles are distinguished by their immersive first-person perspective, allowing players to traverse alien landscapes, solve environmental challenges, and participate in exhilarating combat.
– **Expansive Environments:** Considering the advancements in gaming technology since *Metroid Prime 3*, fans can anticipate larger and more intricate settings, possibly featuring seamless area transitions.
– **New Abilities and Weapons:** Each *Metroid* installment unveils new mechanics, and *Prime 4* will likely uphold this trend by introducing fresh upgrades for Samus’ Power Suit.
– **A Deep Sci-Fi Narrative:** The *Prime* series has consistently showcased rich storytelling, often conveyed through environmental narratives and scan logs. *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond* is expected to deepen the lore of the *Metroid* universe.
## **Will It Be a Switch 2 Launch Title?**
One of the most pressing questions about *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond* is whether it will act as a launch title for the Nintendo Switch 2. While Nintendo has yet to confirm this, it seems logical for the company to leverage such a highly awaited title to boost sales of its new console.
If *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond* does debut on both the Switch and Switch 2, we might witness enhanced graphics, improved performance, and possibly unique features for the next-generation hardware.
## **When Will We Learn More?**
Nintendo is anticipated to unveil more information regarding *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond* in the upcoming months. The next Nintendo Direct, planned for April 2, 2025, could showcase new gameplay footage, narrative elements, and potentially confirm a version for the Switch 2.
## **Final Thoughts**
After years of anticipation, *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond* is finally on the horizon. Whether it launches solely on the Switch, the Switch 2, or both, one thing is clear: fans of the *Metroid* series are in for an exhilarating journey when Samus Aran makes her return in 2025.
Stay tuned for further updates as Nintendo unveils more information about this highly awaited game!
