Metroid Prime 4: Beyond preview video leaks, solving some mysteries about the Switch 2 game

Nintendo has hosted hands-on demos of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, but they only featured small snippets of the Switch 2 game. With its December 4th release date approaching, many questions remain unanswered. Gamers can expect a flood of coverage on November 14th, with one Metroid Prime 4 preview leaking early. The YouTube video is now private, but not before viewers could record their impressions (spoilers below).

The Spanish-language broadcaster shared some extensive playtest footage. The showcased events appear early in the game, but in different areas than previously seen. Overall, despite not being loyal to the Metroid Prime series, the YouTuber came away impressed.

For gamers who dare, Famiboards posters have captured some screenshots from the video. One fan noted that some scenes were more detailed than those in the 2024 reveal trailer. Trees and bushes are higher resolution, and backgrounds have more detail. That said, when moving through these environments, the shrubbery remains still.

Another opinion expressed about the leaked Metroid Prime 4: Beyond preview is that the visuals are smooth. The action is fast-paced, and Samus moves with a speed and grace not witnessed in prior games. When using morph balls, the transitions also happen much more quickly.

Portals and mission types in Metroid Prime 4

One debated point about the Retro Studios project is the role of portals. While some gamers theorized that they facilitated time travel, that may not be the case. Their purpose later in the game could change, but in the video, the portals function more like conventional doors.

In a recent trailer, gamers spotted icons associated with escort missions. The preview confirms that Sanus must protect companions in distress.

The broadcaster was allowed to play the game for about two hours and record 20 minutes of footage. Even so, Nintendo wants testers to keep some gameplay elements a secret. The company has been criticized for barebones marketing ahead of the Metroid Prime 4 release date. Hopefully, for buyers considering pre-ordering, it addresses other concerns following the upcoming barrage of impressions.