Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, the long-awaited sequel in the Prime series, releases on December 4, 2025, for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. The game offers enhanced visuals and performance on the newer console, including 4K resolution at 60fps in docked mode. Physical and digital copies are available for preorder at major retailers.
Release Details
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond arrives more than 18 years after Metroid Prime 3: Corruption in 2007. Originally announced at E3 2017 with Bandai Namco developing, the project was rebooted in early 2019 by Retro Studios, the team behind the first three Prime games. A November 2025 trailer showcased space battles, Samus Aran's acrobatic flips, and an Akira-inspired slide. The game launches on December 4, 2025, for Nintendo Switch at $60 and Switch 2 at $70. Owners of the Switch version can upgrade to the Switch 2 edition for $10, available digitally and physically.
File sizes vary slightly by source: the Nintendo Store lists 26.3GB for Switch and 31.6GB for Switch 2, while the Switch 2 eShop shows 28.9GB for the Switch version. The Switch 2 edition includes a full game on cartridge with no major downloads beyond patches, supporting HDR throughout.
Switch 2 Enhancements
On Switch 2, players can choose between Quality mode (4K at 60fps docked, 1080p at 60fps handheld) and Performance mode (1080p at 120fps docked, 720p at 120fps handheld). New mouse controls via Joy-Con 2 allow precise aiming for Samus' arm cannon, with options to switch between dual-stick, mouse, and gyro controls.
Reception and Availability
GameSpot awarded Metroid Prime 4: Beyond an 8/10, praising its level design, boss battles, and visuals, though noting mixed feelings on the Vi-O-La motorbike traversal. It holds an 81 on Metacritic. Preorders for physical copies remain in stock at retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart, and GameStop, with Best Buy offering launch-day shipping and in-store pickup. Related amiibo figures, such as Sylux ($30, releasing December 4), Samus ($30), and Samus & Vi-O-La ($40), are available now or at launch from major stores.