Metroid Prime 4: Beyond — an excellent modernization, not a total reinvention

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond finally returns the Prime series after nearly two decades. The game modernizes the classic formula with impressive visuals on the Switch 2, fluid performance, new psychic powers and a motorcycle for faster traversal — but it mostly refines rather than reinvents the series.

Beyond keeps the franchise’s core loop: explore interconnected biomes, collect upgrades, solve environmental puzzles and face large boss fights. New tools like the Control Beam (a time‑slowing, steerable attack) add variety, and the Psych Spider Ball and other upgrades feel familiar yet functional.

Graphics & performance

On Switch 2 the game shines: options for 4K/60fps docked or 1080p/120fps performance modes deliver smooth, detailed gameplay. Textures, lighting and environmental detail push Nintendo’s hardware in a more realistic direction than many previous entries.

Gameplay & pacing

The experience is solid and often thrilling, but it rarely surprises. Biomes such as Ice Belt and Flare Pool recall classic Prime locations, and while exploration is rewarding, the game guides progress along a mostly scripted path rather than offering full open‑world freedom.

Controls & accessibility

Controls follow the twin‑stick first‑person convention, with lock‑on targeting and right‑stick aim. Boss encounters can demand precise manual aiming; a Pro Controller helps. There’s an optional mouse‑style Joy‑Con aiming mode, but it may feel awkward to players used to twin sticks.

Difficulty & design choices

Beyond generally strikes a fair balance between challenge and accessibility, with generous ammo and health drops. Still, some late‑game boss battles spike in difficulty and may frustrate players. The game also sometimes leaves you directionless in large hub areas — classic Metroid territory, but not for everyone.

Who should play it

• Fans of the Metroid Prime series who want a faithful, polished continuation.
• Newcomers who enjoy first‑person exploration and atmospheric sci‑fi worlds (no prior story knowledge required).
• Players who value tight combat, strong visuals and precise AFPS controls more than radical reinvention.

If you want bold reinvention like Breath of the Wild delivered for Zelda, Beyond may feel conservative. But for many players the excellent execution of the classic formula — combined with modern visuals and a few fresh mechanics — will be plenty.

Discussion: Will you jump into Metroid Prime 4: Beyond for the nostalgia and polish, or did you hope Nintendo would push the series farther? Share your pick and what you’d change if you could.