In today's Nintendo Switch Direct, fans were treated to an exciting new glimpse of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, showcasing innovative psychic-infused gameplay and a striking red-and-purple suit for the iconic Samus Aran. The showcased footage highlighted a range of psychic abilities that Samus will harness to navigate the game's environments upon its anticipated release later this year. The gameplay has a distinct BioShock-like feel, as Samus explores the mysterious planet Viewros, scanning ancient stone figures and confronting new adversaries with bursts of purple energy controlled effortlessly with her free hand.
The setting for this adventure is a lush, enigmatic jungle world, where Samus finds herself unexpectedly transported. This alien landscape is centered around a colossal tree, long revered by the intelligent life that inhabits the area. While Nintendo has kept details about the release date closely guarded, only promising a 2025 window, the Direct provided a deeper look into how Samus's new powers will function. These abilities not only allow her to manipulate mysterious mechanisms but also to strategically guide energy shots through the planet's wildlife, adding a fresh layer of tactical gameplay.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond has had a tumultuous journey since its initial announcement at E3 2017, marked by a period of silence, a change in developers, and a re-emergence last year with the first gameplay footage. Today's Direct, which was dedicated to the current Nintendo Switch, leaves many wondering about the potential for an enhanced version on the rumored Nintendo Switch 2. However, it has been confirmed that the game will be compatible with both platforms, ensuring a broad reach for fans.
For a comprehensive overview of all the announcements from today's Nintendo Switch Direct, you can find more details [ttpp].