Nintendo’s iconic heroine, Samus Aran, is the focal point of the Metroid game series, known for its mature sci-fi action-adventures set in alien worlds. Despite the anticipation for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, early reviews raised concerns about the introduction of a comedic sidekick named Myles. However, the game, estimated to take around 15 hours to complete, delivers a mix of exhilarating experiences and frustrating moments.
Metroid Prime 4, a highly anticipated installment, has been in development for nearly a decade. The game’s journey from its announcement in 2017 to its upcoming release on the Nintendo Switch has been tumultuous, marked by restarts and delays. The narrative of Beyond begins with Samus responding to a distress call, leading her to an unknown planet where she must navigate challenges and reclaim her lost abilities.
The gameplay of Metroid Prime 4 remains faithful to its predecessors, emphasizing exploration and combat in alien environments. Players will encounter familiar mechanics such as revisiting locations with newfound abilities to unlock hidden areas. However, new elements like psychic abilities and character interactions, including the presence of the Galactic Federation members, add layers of complexity to the experience.
Despite its strengths, Metroid Prime 4 faces criticism for certain aspects, such as the underwhelming open-world desert landscapes and the implementation of new controls on the Switch 2 console. The game’s blend of classic Metroid elements with modern features may resonate with longtime fans, but newcomers to the series might find more satisfaction in exploring earlier titles like Metroid Prime Remastered or Super Metroid.