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More than eight years after Nintendo announced they would be releasing Metroid Prime 4, the game is finally on its way. Originally planned as a Nintendo Switch exclusive, Metroid Prime 4 has been in development so long that it will now be released on both the original Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.
Nintendo kept fans guessing during 2025, showing glimpses of the game during Switch 2 events but withholding an exact release date. There was even a false alarm when some believed it was available in the London Underground. It wasn’t until the September Direct that Nintendo officially announced Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will launch on December 4, 2025. You can find everything you need to pre-order the game now, so you’ll be ready when the eagerly awaited release finally arrives.
Price and Performance Differences on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2
Nintendo wouldn’t admit it openly, but it seems they wish Metroid Prime 4 could have been a Switch 2-only game. Since unveiling it during the original Switch’s launch year, changing plans to make it a Switch 2 exclusive wouldn’t have gone over well. As a result, the game will be available on both consoles, with some differences between the versions.
If you’re planning to play on the original Switch, you’re in luck—this version will cost $10 less. The Switch version will be priced at $60, while the Switch 2 version will cost $70. The upgraded Switch 2 version will feature improved visuals and higher frame rates, and players will be able to choose between quality mode and performance mode. It will also support mouse controls, which aren’t possible on the original Switch.
Pre-Ordering and Upgrade Options
If you haven’t gotten a Switch 2 yet, or if you’re waiting to buy one later, you won’t need to purchase separate copies for each console. Nintendo offers a $10 upgrade path, allowing you to buy the game at the lower price on Switch and then upgrade to the Switch 2 version later. The eShop page for this upgrade is already live, so you can prepare in advance.
For those who prefer physical copies, there’s also a physical version of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond available for purchase. Since Nintendo publishes the game, you don’t have to worry about key cards—everything is on the game cartridge. Links to pre-order options are available from various retailers.
Where to Pre-Order
You can pre-order Metroid Prime 4: Beyond on the Nintendo Switch or Switch 2 through multiple stores already offering the game. Keep an eye out for the physical edition if you prefer collecting physical media, and make sure to secure your copy before launch day.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond Amiibo
Nintendo announced several amiibo figures during the September Direct, including ones for the upcoming game. The standout is Samus riding the space-age motorcycle shown in Prime 4’s trailer. This amiibo features Samus in her new red armor, along with other figures such as a traditional Samus in her orange and yellow armor, and Sylux, a villain from earlier in the series returning this December. The standard Samus and Sylux amiibos cost $29.99 each, while the motorcycle version is priced at $39.99.
FAQ
What is the best-selling Metroid game?
Metroid Dread holds the record as the best-selling in the series, with over three million copies sold. Overall, the franchise’s sales are modest compared to other Nintendo titles.
Who is the main villain in Metroid Prime 4: Beyond?
The main antagonist appears to be Sylux, a character returning from Metroid Prime Hunters.
Is Ridley in Metroid Dread?
Ridley appears in many games, but he was not featured in Metroid Dread. It’s currently unconfirmed whether Ridley will be part of Metroid Prime 4.