Playing Metroid Prime 4 with mouselook and at 120fps feels incredible – and like it should be illegal

One of the most intriguing games showcased at the Nintendo Switch 2 gameplay reveal was Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, a known quantity that still managed to captivate fans of the series like myself.

The demo of Metroid Prime 4 felt familiar, showcasing a stripped-down area of the game that lacked new features. This simplicity made it clear that the game was an iterative sequel to its predecessors, but other footage has shown that there are new abilities and mechanics to explore. These were not available in the Switch 2 hands-on demo.

Nintendo and Retro Studios deliberately chose this segment to showcase the essentials of the Metroid Prime experience on the Switch 2 hardware. The game runs at 120 frames per second, a significant performance upgrade from its predecessor. The Switch 2 version offers full HD resolution and smooth gameplay at 120fps, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

The Switch 2 introduces mouse controls, allowing players to use the Joy-Con as a mouse for certain games like Metroid Prime 4. This unique feature enhances gameplay experience, especially during combat sequences. The game seamlessly transitions between traditional controller gameplay and mouse controls based on the player’s actions.

Playing Metroid Prime 4 with mouse controls felt like a proper mouselook game, offering twitchy and responsive gameplay. The combination of controller gameplay and mouse controls provided the best of both worlds for players, enhancing their overall gaming experience.

The combination of smooth 120fps gameplay and efficient aiming with mouse controls felt almost too good to be true. The improved performance and gameplay experience on the Switch 2 addressed previous complaints about the Switch 1, providing players with a more enjoyable gaming experience.

If Metroid Prime 4 serves as a glimpse into the future, I am excited for the enhanced packages and a lineup of new games that prioritize performance improvements over graphical upgrades.

Upon its release later this year, there may be an initial Switch version of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond available. However, with the advancements in gaming technology, the ideal platform to experience it fully would be on the Switch 2. This next-gen upgrade offers the optimal gaming experience that players desire.

Overall, the anticipation for Metroid Prime 4 and its potential impact on the gaming industry is high. The focus on performance enhancements and new gameplay experiences is sure to captivate players and push the boundaries of gaming technology.