In a surprise-filled Nintendo Direct this morning, the long-awaited reveal of *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond* finally materialized, sending fans into a frenzy after years of silence. The game headlined a summer showcase packed with exciting announcements, updates, and a few nostalgic nods, cementing Nintendo’s place in the increasingly competitive summer gaming news cycle.
First revealed in 2017 with little more than a logo, *Metroid Prime 4* has suffered from long development delays and a team reboot in 2019 when Retro Studios—developers of the original Prime trilogy—took over. Today’s trailer offered the first substantial gameplay footage, showcasing a dark, atmospheric return to form for Samus Aran with dynamic combat, sprawling alien landscapes, and stunning visuals that rank among the Nintendo Switch’s best. Set to launch in 2025, it’s clear that *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond* aims high for both longtime fans and newcomers.
The Direct wasn’t a one-trick show, though. Nintendo also revealed a remake of *Fire Emblem: Genealogy of the Holy War*, the Japan-only Super Famicom classic. Fully modernized visuals and voice acting bring this cult-favorite to Western audiences for the first time, making it one of the most significant localization efforts in Nintendo’s recent history. The remake is slated for early 2025.
Elsewhere in the presentation, *Super Mario Party Jamboree* was announced with more than 100 new mini-games and online modes, reigniting competitive party play. Nintendo also previewed *The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of the Past*, a mysterious 2D entry that seems to blend mechanics from *A Link to the Past* with time-based puzzle elements. No release date was given, but fans are already speculating that it could be the next sleeper hit in the franchise.
While Sony and Microsoft are also pushing hard this summer with notable announcements, today’s Nintendo Direct may have claimed the spotlight. With *Metroid Prime 4* finally emerging from the shadows and a strong lineup ahead, Nintendo seems determined to finish the Switch era on a high note.