Nintendo shared details of the development of Metroid Prime 4 Beyond in an interview with the development team published by Famitsu. The reasons for changing the development team, key concepts of the game, and decisions on gameplay and plot were discussed.
The project began with a request from Nintendo of America to create a core game in the Metroid Prime series. The goal was to preserve the atmosphere of the original and create something new. The plot focuses on the connection between Samus Aran and the antagonist Sylux, an idea that had been in the studio for several years.
The main problem was the change of developer, which required a restart with Retro Studios. The team acknowledged that Retro did not have a complete structure for developing Metroid Prime, which required restructuring processes and working with external partners. At the same time, the emphasis was placed on carefully crafting the gaming experience.
The interview also touched on fan expectations inspired by The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. The team rejected the idea of an open world, explaining that free exploration contradicts ability-based progression. Instead, a hub with limited freedom of movement and a vehicle were developed to improve the pace of the game.
The game's title is explained as "overcoming space and time." Among the technical achievements are 60 frames per second on Nintendo Switch and 120 frames on Switch 2, as well as smooth switching between mouse and controller. New game systems have been introduced, including psychic abilities and the Vi-O-La vehicle for efficient movement around the hub.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond was released on December 4, 2025 for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2.
