Metroid Prime 4: Beyond Receives Official Rating in South Korea, Hinting Imminent Nintendo Switch Release

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, one of Nintendo’s most anticipated upcoming titles, has officially been rated by the South Korean Game Content Rating Committee, potentially signaling that the game's release for Nintendo Switch is drawing near.

This new milestone is a promising indication for fans of the acclaimed Metroid series who have been awaiting concrete updates on the title’s development and launch timeline. The South Korean Game Content Rating Committee, the governmental body responsible for classifying games for local audiences, has assigned Metroid Prime 4: Beyond a rating of "suitable for ages 12 and up." The committee’s assessment notes "mild violence" as the leading content descriptor, reflecting protagonist Samus Aran’s battles against alien adversaries in her iconic power suit—a core gameplay element that has defined the Metroid franchise since its debut. Game ratings by such authorities typically occur once a title is in the final stages of development, with content deemed ready for public evaluation.

This move provides a credible signal that Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is on track and could soon make its long-awaited debut on the Nintendo Switch.

This development also contradicts recent rumors circulating within the gaming community about potential setbacks or development challenges for the title.

The South Korean rating suggests that Nintendo and developer Retro Studios are progressing as planned, aiming for a 2024 release as originally anticipated. Originally announced at E3 2017, Metroid Prime 4 has undergone a lengthy and closely watched development process.

In 2019, Nintendo publicly shared that it had restarted the project, bringing longtime Metroid Prime developer Retro Studios back onboard to ensure the quality standards fans expect from the series.

Since then, details surrounding the game’s progress have been sparse, making this recent rating a notable occasion for both industry observers and Metroid enthusiasts alike. The Metroid Prime series is celebrated for its atmospheric, exploration-driven gameplay and innovative first-person perspective.

Since its inception, the franchise has garnered critical acclaim and strong sales on Nintendo platforms including the GameCube, Wii, and, most recently, the Nintendo Switch with the remastered edition of Metroid Prime. As Metroid Prime 4: Beyond moves closer to launch, anticipation continues to build for new gameplay footage or a release date announcement, likely to be featured in an upcoming Nintendo Direct presentation or official press release.

With the recent rating confirmed and development milestones seemingly on track, the return of Samus Aran’s interstellar adventures on the Nintendo Switch looks more certain than ever.

For further updates on Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, stay tuned to official Nintendo channels and major industry events.

Nintendo Switch Metroid Metroid Prime Nintendo Metroid Prime 4 Metroid Prime 4: Beyond Switch South Korea Retro Studios South Korean Game Content Rating Committee Metroid series Beyond