After a near two decade wait, Nintendo's Metroid Prime 4: Beyond has finally allowed gamers to return to one of gaming's most iconic sci-fi series. While it received positive reviews, it has also created much debate around if the new features actually improve the game or if they have taken away from the original. The game was developed by Retro Studios and was released on the 4th of December 2025 for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. It's the first fully new entry in the main Metroid Prime series since Metroid Prime 3: Corruption in 2007.

Metroid Prime 4 Boss Fight | Source: The Shortcut

The latest entry sees the return of beloved bounty hunter Samus Aran, who is sent to the mysterious planet of Viewros after fending off her rival Sylux. She must explore dangerous locations, fight enemies and discover the mysteries behind the ancient Lamorn civilisation. Despite the traditional first-person exploration and combat, Retro Studios have included some new features and gameplay mechanics. One of the biggest features is the inclusion of psychic powers that allow you to interact with your surroundings in new ways and progress through increasingly complex environmental puzzles.

Metroid Prime 4 Scenery | Source: Galaxus

One of the praised features of the game is the graphics, especially on Nintendo's latest console. The Nintendo Switch 2 version of the game has two different graphical modes. One to give you the best looking graphics and one to optimise the frame rate. Quality Mode gives you 4K at 60fps when used on a compatible display. Performance Mode gives you 1080p at 120 fps. This helps to bring the alien world of Viewros to life with beautiful environments, lighting and creature design. The Switch 2 version received an impressive 9/10 from Nintendo Life due to its beautiful graphics, soundtrack and exploration.

Overall Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is a huge moment for the series that hasn't had a major release in nearly two decades. With beautiful graphics, immersive environments and innovative gameplay mechanics there's plenty to enjoy. Although some of the more ambitious choices have been somewhat controversial. It's a huge moment for long-time fans seeing the return of Samus Aran. And for new players, it allows them to experience one of Nintendo's most unique sci-fi adventures on modern hardware.

Metroid Prime 4 Ability | Source: WellPlayed.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond shows that even long standing franchises need to evolve. But finding the perfect balance can be one of the biggest challenges in gaming.