Metroid Prime 4 Review: Nintendo’s Troubled Sequel Misses the Mark

The long-awaited sequel, *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond*, arrives on December 4. After a famously troubled development cycle, the final product feels disjointed. It attempts to blend classic *Metroid* with modern open-world design but ultimately falls short.Developed by Retro Studios, the game promises a fresh start for the iconic series. Early previews indicated a shift in tone and scope. The final release confirms these changes, leading to a diluted experience.

A Fractured Vision and Development History

The game was first announced by Nintendo in 2017. Its development was completely rebooted in 2019, starting from scratch with Retro Studios taking over. This difficult history is evident in the final game’s inconsistent design.According to reports from major outlets, the extended development led to a “cobbled together” feeling. The game introduces ideas only to abandon them quickly. This creates a lack of cohesive vision throughout the adventure.Players control bounty hunter Samus Aran on a new planet, Viewros. She is joined by a cast of Galactic Federation soldiers who provide constant direction. This breaks from the series’ traditional lonely, atmospheric exploration.

Gameplay Shifts and Identity Crisis

The core shooting and scanning mechanics remain solid and familiar. However, new elements feel out of place. An empty desert hub world recalls *The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild* but lacks its depth and wonder.Samus gains psychic powers and a magic motorcycle called Vi-O-La. These additions are underutilized. The game frequently reverts to generic elemental weapons, making its new ideas feel like afterthoughts.The tonal whiplash is significant. Eerie, isolated moments are sandwiched between loud rock music and blockbuster action set pieces. This conflict prevents the game from establishing a strong identity of its own.

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The final verdict is that *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond* is a mid-tier entry. It sacrifices the series’ coherent vision for an unsustainable scope.

Info at your fingertips

When does Metroid Prime 4: Beyond release?

*Metroid Prime 4: Beyond* launches on December 4, 2024. It will be available for both the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Switch 2 console on the same day.

What platforms is the game on?

The game is releasing simultaneously for the current Nintendo Switch and the next-generation Switch 2. This is a significant move for Nintendo, supporting two hardware generations at once.

How does it compare to previous Metroid games?

It diverges significantly from the isolated exploration of classics like *Super Metroid*. The addition of companion characters and a large open hub world makes it feel more like a conventional modern action-adventure game.

Who developed Metroid Prime 4?

Retro Studios, the original developer of the *Metroid Prime* trilogy, led development after taking over the project in 2019. The game was rebuilt from the ground up under their direction.

What is the main criticism of the game?

The primary criticism is its lack of a cohesive identity. It tries to incorporate elements from other popular franchises like *Halo* and *Zelda* while failing to commit fully to a new or classic *Metroid* vision.