REVIEW: Metroid Prime 4: Beyond (Nintendo Switch 2)

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond arrives on the Nintendo Switch 2 after a long wait. The original Metroid Prime is widely regarded as a landmark for the series, successfully bringing its mix of exploration, atmosphere, and first-person action into a well-rounded gaming package. Expectations for any follow-up are naturally high, and Prime 4 has the job of updating the formula for a new generation while respecting what made the series popular in the first place. All that considered, it mostly succeeds on its goal.

Story

The game opens with a cinematic sequence that sets the tone without overcomplicating things. Samus Aran is again stripped of much of her equipment early on, setting up the familiar progression of recovering abilities and uncovering the world’s mysteries.

This time, the scope is larger. Instead of a single planet, Prime 4 spans an intergalactic setting with the new planet Viewros at its centre. Viewros is filled with the remains of long-lost civilisations and strange ruins. The game leans into a classic sci-fi aesthetic, making it clear this isn’t just another Metroid Prime retread.

One change that will be noticed by fans is the presence of NPCs. Samus is mostly on her own, but a few characters appear to offer advice or context. Some, like Myles MacKenzie, don’t add much and may feel unnecessary, though they don’t interfere with the overall tone. Others, like the sniper Reger Tokabi, work better, providing guidance without feeling intrusive.

The villain, Sylux, is less memorable than past antagonists. Compared to the strange and mysterious forces at play elsewhere, he feels small. Still, the story does enough to motivate exploration and keep players moving forward, which is really the point in a Metroid Prime game.

Gameplay

Gameplay sticks closely to the series’ tried-and-tested formula. Samus moves through distinct areas that gradually open up as new abilities are acquired. Exploration, combat, and environmental puzzles remain central, and Retro Studios continues to do this very well.

Key areas like the Volt Forge, Ice Belt, and Flare Pool each bring a slightly different mix of combat and puzzles, which keeps the core loop feeling fresh. The level design subtly guides players without feeling hand-holdy, and finding hidden upgrades or new paths remains satisfying.

The regions are connected by a sparse overworld, which serves a similar purpose to Hyrule Field in Ocarina of Time. It’s not huge, but it gives a sense of scale and a break between main areas. Traversal across this space is handled by Vi-O-La, a new vehicle. Unlocking Vi-O-La involves a short, focused mission that is essentially a driving test for Samus. It’s a little unusual, but it works and adds variety to the gameplay.

Samus’ abilities are expanded in ways that feel familiar but useful. There are a few new powers, and some of the old ones have been reworked with minor tweaks. Everything controls well, and the Switch 2 handles movement and aiming smoothly. Optional motion controls add precision if you want them, and the HD Rumble feedback adds a tactile feel to actions like opening doors or interacting with machinery. These details make the world feel interactive without being overbearing.

Boss encounters remain a highlight. They’re varied, challenging, and well-paced, giving players memorable moments without slowing the overall progression. Exploration and combat are balanced so that neither dominates, keeping the flow consistent.

Visuals

Metroid Prime 4 looks great on the Switch 2. While it doesn’t compete with the latest PlayStation or Xbox hardware, the game plays to the system’s strengths. Environments are detailed, enemy designs are strong, and cutscenes are framed in a cinematic way. The art style is consistent and coherent, giving the game a clear visual identity without relying on photorealism.

Viewros, in particular, is striking. From sprawling deserts to ice-covered zones, each area has its own personality. The series has always leaned on atmosphere over raw graphical fidelity, and Beyond continues that approach effectively. The scale and polish of the environments make Samus feel small but capable, and the occasional NPC interactions don’t break immersion.

Conclusion

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond does what it needs to do. It updates the classic Metroid Prime formula with some new ideas and a larger setting without losing sight of what made the series enjoyable. NPCs and the overworld structure may not appeal to everyone, and Sylux is a weaker villain than expected, but the core loop of exploration, combat, and puzzles is solid.

Retro Studios has added some fresh elements, like Vi-O-La, new abilities, and minor structural tweaks, which make the game feel like its own entry rather than a rehash. Boss fights, environmental design, and the tactile feel of the world are all executed well.

It may not surpass the original Metroid Prime in legacy or atmosphere, but Beyond holds its own and proves the series still has a place on modern hardware. For both returning fans and newcomers, it’s a polished and engaging sci-fi adventure.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond (Nintendo Switch 2) Pricing & Availability

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is available now for Nintendo Switch 2. The physical edition is priced at €59.99 from retailers such as Smyths, while the digital download version from the Nintendo Switch Store costs €69.99.