Nintendo is once again building excitement among its dedicated fanbase with the rollout of playable demos for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, the long-anticipated sequel developed by Retro Studios.
This highly awaited first-person action-adventure is expected to be a flagship title for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 hardware.
Now, select retailers across the United States are offering in-store kiosks for eager players to get a glimpse of the new game’s prologue prior to its official release. Over the past weekend, attentive community members spotted Metroid Prime 4: Beyond demo stations appearing at several Walmart locations nationwide.
These kiosks allow visitors to play a 20-minute slice of the game, specifically an early section set in the Federation base while under assault by notorious Space Pirates.
This hands-on comes just after last year’s reveal of early gameplay footage and marks the first public opportunity to experience Retro Studios’ latest project in real time. Importantly, these demo units have also been reported at other major retailers, including GameStop, Target, and Best Buy.
According to firsthand accounts in online communities, several branches already feature the Metroid Prime 4: Beyond demo on Nintendo Switch 2 hardware.
Those interested in trying out the preview are encouraged to check with their local stores, as kiosk availability may vary by location.
This strategic in-person launch ensures that players nationwide can experience the upgraded visuals and refined controls firsthand. Curiously, Nintendo has not yet released the Metroid Prime 4: Beyond demo on the Nintendo eShop.
Industry observers suggest that this decision may be designed to preempt data mining activities, which have sometimes led to story leaks and spoilers in the past.
A comparable approach was taken with Donkey Kong Bananza, which also withheld its downloadable demo until after the main game had been available for a month, preserving critical surprises for launch. Regarding performance, current reports emphasize that the Nintendo Switch 2 version offers smooth gameplay, with the Switch edition said to maintain 60 frames per second.
While the upcoming Switch 2 hardware will provide advanced features such as HDR and enhanced control options, initial impressions indicate that those on the original Switch will still enjoy a robust, responsive experience. The Metroid franchise, a pillar of Nintendo’s storied history, continues to capture imaginations with every new entry.
As Retro Studios hones its vision for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, these in-store demos represent a major milestone leading up to launch.
For ongoing updates, trailers—including Nintendo’s official 7-minute 4K deep dive—and more Metroid news, stay tuned to the official Nintendo channels and trusted gaming news outlets.
This highly awaited first-person action-adventure is expected to be a flagship title for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 hardware.
Now, select retailers across the United States are offering in-store kiosks for eager players to get a glimpse of the new game’s prologue prior to its official release. Over the past weekend, attentive community members spotted Metroid Prime 4: Beyond demo stations appearing at several Walmart locations nationwide.
These kiosks allow visitors to play a 20-minute slice of the game, specifically an early section set in the Federation base while under assault by notorious Space Pirates.
This hands-on comes just after last year’s reveal of early gameplay footage and marks the first public opportunity to experience Retro Studios’ latest project in real time. Importantly, these demo units have also been reported at other major retailers, including GameStop, Target, and Best Buy.
According to firsthand accounts in online communities, several branches already feature the Metroid Prime 4: Beyond demo on Nintendo Switch 2 hardware.
Those interested in trying out the preview are encouraged to check with their local stores, as kiosk availability may vary by location.
This strategic in-person launch ensures that players nationwide can experience the upgraded visuals and refined controls firsthand. Curiously, Nintendo has not yet released the Metroid Prime 4: Beyond demo on the Nintendo eShop.
Industry observers suggest that this decision may be designed to preempt data mining activities, which have sometimes led to story leaks and spoilers in the past.
A comparable approach was taken with Donkey Kong Bananza, which also withheld its downloadable demo until after the main game had been available for a month, preserving critical surprises for launch. Regarding performance, current reports emphasize that the Nintendo Switch 2 version offers smooth gameplay, with the Switch edition said to maintain 60 frames per second.
While the upcoming Switch 2 hardware will provide advanced features such as HDR and enhanced control options, initial impressions indicate that those on the original Switch will still enjoy a robust, responsive experience. The Metroid franchise, a pillar of Nintendo’s storied history, continues to capture imaginations with every new entry.
As Retro Studios hones its vision for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, these in-store demos represent a major milestone leading up to launch.
For ongoing updates, trailers—including Nintendo’s official 7-minute 4K deep dive—and more Metroid news, stay tuned to the official Nintendo channels and trusted gaming news outlets.
