Metroid Prime 4 has been a highly anticipated game, but it has faced a tumultuous journey to completion. Initially stumbling multiple times over a decade, the game was eventually scrapped and restarted before finding its way back to Retro Studios, the team behind the original Metroid Prime trilogy. The result is a visually stunning game with beautiful art direction, graphics, and sound design. However, the gameplay experience of Metroid Prime 4 leaves much to be desired.
The game focuses heavily on action rather than on the puzzle-solving and exploration elements that have defined the series. Annoying side characters, such as Myles Mackenzie, detract from the immersive experience, with their constant chatter and exaggerated reactions to Samus Aran's presence. The overworld lacks the personality and depth seen in previous Metroid games, making it feel disconnected and less engaging for players.
Despite its technical marvel and impressive visuals, Metroid Prime 4 fails to capture the essence of the series. The game's opening hours are tedious and lack the direction and coherence that Nintendo games are known for. While there are moments that scratch the nostalgia itch for longtime fans, the overall experience falls short of expectations.
One of the game's strengths lies in its technical aspects, especially on the Nintendo Switch 2. Players have the option to choose between different graphical modes that offer a high-resolution experience at 60 FPS or a 120 FPS option at 720p. The attention to detail in the graphics, lighting effects, and sound design sets a new standard for the industry. However, these technical achievements are not enough to compensate for the lackluster gameplay experience.
Metroid Prime 4 attempts to introduce new elements to refresh the gameplay formula, but these additions feel disjointed and do not enhance the overall experience. The game borrows elements from other franchises like Halo and The Legend of Zelda, resulting in a mismatched blend that lacks coherence. The presence of a large supporting cast and a more expansive, open-world environment deviate from the series' traditional focus on solo exploration and survival.
In terms of gameplay mechanics, Metroid Prime 4 offers a familiar first-person shooter experience with a unique emphasis on lock-on aiming and information scanning. Despite the solid combat mechanics and nimble gameplay, the introduction of new gimmicks, such as psychic powers, feels underdeveloped and fails to add depth to the gameplay. The game's narrative and characters lack depth, with side characters serving as flat stand-ins rather than offering meaningful interactions.
The open desert hub world in Metroid Prime 4 deviates from the series' interconnected labyrinthine environments, resembling The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild but on a smaller scale. While some dungeon sections capture the essence of a true Metroid experience, the overall game world feels underwhelming and lacking in depth. The game's world design and level structure do not match the complexity and intricacy of previous Metroid titles.
Overall, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond presents a mixed experience for fans and newcomers alike. While the game showcases technical prowess and impressive visuals, it falters in its gameplay execution and storytelling. The disjointed nature of the game, coupled with its struggles to find a clear creative vision, results in an experience that falls short of the series' legacy. For Metroid fans, approaching this installment cautiously is advisable, while others may find better experiences elsewhere in the gaming landscape.
