Latest news with #SamusAran
Metro
11 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Metro
Metroid Prime 4 advert on London tube confuses everyone with 'out now' sticker
An advert for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond claims it has already been released, fuelling hope for a surprise announcement. The Nintendo Switch 2 launch line-up might be lacking in first party titles, but the roadmap for the rest of the year could still make up for it. Donkey Kong Bananza is set to launch next month, while Kirby Air Riders, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond are all slated for 2025. However, the latter, which is a cross-gen release with the original Switch, still doesn't have a release date. For anyone anticipating Samus Aran's next gallivant through space, a new poster on the London Underground might just give you a jump scare. At the Oxford Circus station, an advert for Metroid Prime 4 is emblazoned with an 'out now' sticker – despite the fact it most definitely isn't. This has prompted wild speculation of an imminent shadow drop, and while we all like to dream, this is much more likely to just be an unfortunate mistake than a secret hint. The advert is part of a string of Switch 2 adverts across the tube station, alongside Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza. The latter has the correct release date of July 17, while Mario Kart World has the same 'out now' sticker in the exact same position as on Metroid Prime 4's poster, suggesting it could be a copy and paste error. Sign up to the GameCentral newsletter for a unique take on the week in gaming, alongside the latest reviews and more. Delivered to your inbox every Saturday morning. Even if a shadow drop is unlikely, the poster does imply the game will be released over the summer (and that those not mentioned, such as Hyrule Warriors, are later in the year). The only other game advertised is Super Mario Party Jamboree TV, which is set to be released on July 27, so there's a chance Metroid could land in August. More Trending Metroid Prime 4 is set to launch on the original Switch as well as the Switch 2, but this advert doesn't make any mention of that fact. The upgraded Switch 2 edition will have mouse controls, HDR support, 4K resolution when docked, and run up to 120fps. It's unclear when Nintendo could announce the game's release date, but considering it recently just unveiled a Splatoon spin-off out of the blue, via its Nintendo Today! app, it could happen at any moment. Earlier this week, Nintendo dedicated an entire Direct presentation to Donkey Kong Bananza, where it revealed a young Pauline, new costumes, and a mode inspired by Mario Paint. Email gamecentral@ leave a comment below, follow us on Twitter. To submit Inbox letters and Reader's Features more easily, without the need to send an email, just use our Submit Stuff page here. For more stories like this, check our Gaming page. MORE: Games Inbox: What is the hardest video of modern times? MORE: NetEase game Blood Message may have the best video game graphics ever MORE: You can buy one of the best games ever for the price of an ice lolly
The National
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
What are the best Switch 2 games available now? Top five ranked
The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 launched worldwide today. Following the immense success of the first Switch console, which sold 152.12 million units since 2017, gaming enthusiasts are looking forward to getting their hands on the new and improved version. What's a console without games, though? And Switch 2 has an impressive selection of new games to play. Here, we list some of the most significant game releases, and what fans can expect from each experience. 1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom Remastered Metacritic score: 91 and 96, respectively Key review: " The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom has lived up to the high expectations created by the success of Breath of the Wil d" – Shacknews Both beloved titles from Switch return with enhanced graphics and performance, taking full advantage of Switch 2's upgraded hardware. These remasters provide an opportunity for players to revisit the game's kingdom of Hyrule with improved visuals and smoother gameplay. 2. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond Metacritic score: 94 Key review: "This is an excellent remaster that preserves a classic game and makes it highly playable by modern standards" – Pocket-lint This game marks protagonist Samus Aran's most ambitious adventure yet. Set in the alien world of Viewros, the game adds psychic abilities to her arsenal, allowing for new puzzle mechanics and combat strategies. The storytelling adopts a darker tone, with cinematic cutscenes and dialogue-driven encounters. The visuals are powered by Unreal Engine 5, showcasing realistic environments, particle effects and fluid character animations. 3. Split Fiction Metacritic score: 91 Key review: " Split Fiction is a perfect game, I can't put it any other way" – PSX Extreme Under the guidance of Lebanese-Swedish director Josef Fares, game design studio Hazelight has produced some of the best co-op game experiences. Their latest game, Split Fiction, is about two writers – one penning a sci-fi and the second writing a fantasy – who both get sucked into virtually constructed versions of the stories they wrote. The game received rave reviews upon its release on other consoles, and can now be enjoyed on the Switch 2. 4. Mario Kart World Metacritic score: 87 The biggest game release alongside the launch of the Switch 2 is Mario Kart World, the first new mainline entry in the Mario Kart series in over a decade. This instalment introduces open-world tracks, off-road mechanics, elimination modes and supports up to 24-player races. It also features unlockable costumes, which offer a fresh take on the beloved racing series. 5. Super Mario Party Jamboree Metacritic score: 82 Key review: " Jamboree 's achievements will keep players very motivated to explore the entire game and its lifespan is surprisingly long" – Starbit With more than 200 mini-games and 10 new boards, Super Mario Party Jamboree renews the party game genre. The boards are now interactive with dynamic weather and events that can change the outcome. There's also a 100-player online tournament mode, which adds a competitive experience. Characters in the game now have personal items that allow them the option of strategic plays. The custom mini-game playlists, meanwhile, will let players create their own party experience. Honourable mentions: GameCube re-releases The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Soulcalibur II and F-Zero GX Metacritic scores: 96, 93 and 89, respectively Key review: " The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker is simply a stunning, magical game" – Eurogamer For the first time, retro gamers will be able to play GameCube games on a new console. Replicating what Nintendo did with the NES, SNES and N64 libraries on the Switch, the brand is porting GameCube titles to Switch 2, starting with three beloved titles. These titles offer different experiences in genre and storytelling, as well as a chance for newcomers to discover what made many GameCube games cult classics.
Time of India
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Nintendo Switch 2 console games list: Pokemon Legends Z-A, Cyberpunk 2077, Mario Kart, and more
Cyberpunk 2077 I Credits: CD Projekt Red The Nintendo Switch 2 is finally out, and the first wave of games has already arrived. There's a mix of new releases, upgraded classics, and some third-party hits that now run better on the new hardware. Nintendo has started strong, and the full list of Nintendo Switch 2 console games is already packed with variety. If you've just got the console or are thinking of getting one, here's everything you need to know about the games available and the ones coming soon. First-Party Nintendo Switch 2 console games available now (Released June 5, 2025) Legend of Zelda Switch 2 Amazon Listings Spotted 🚨 Tears Of The Kingdom 👉 Breath Of The Wild 👉 — Nintendo Switch 2 News (@NinSwitchIntel) June 5, 2025 Nintendo has released several first-party titles alongside the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, offering players immediate access to enhanced and new gaming experiences. Mario Kart World : The latest installment in the Mario Kart series, featuring open-world tracks and 24-player races. : The latest installment in the Mario Kart series, featuring open-world tracks and 24-player races. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild—Switch 2 Edition: This is an enhanced version with improved performance and visuals. This is an enhanced version with improved performance and visuals. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Switch 2 Edition : Upgraded for the new console with better graphics and frame rates. : Upgraded for the new console with better graphics and frame rates. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond : A long-awaited sequel in the Metroid series, offering new adventures for Samus Aran. : A long-awaited sequel in the Metroid series, offering new adventures for Samus Aran. Super Mario Party Jamboree : A new party game with various mini-games and modes. : A new party game with various mini-games and modes. Kirby and the Forgotten Land: Star-Crossed World : An enhanced version of Kirby's adventure with additional content. : An enhanced version of Kirby's adventure with additional content. Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma : A farming simulation and role-playing game hybrid. : A farming simulation and role-playing game hybrid. Fast Fusion: A high-speed racing game with futuristic vehicles. Upcoming First-Party titles New Listing Spotted 🆕Mario Kart World - Nintendo Switch 2 at Amazon! 👉 — Nintendo Switch 2 News (@NinSwitchIntel) June 5, 2025 Nintendo has announced several first-party games set to release in the coming months, expanding the Nintendo Switch 2 console games library. Donkey Kong Bananza (July 17, 2025): A new 3D platformer featuring Donkey Kong in sandbox-style levels with destructible environments. (July 17, 2025): A new 3D platformer featuring Donkey Kong in sandbox-style levels with destructible environments. Drag x Drive (Summer 2025): A motion-controlled sports game inspired by wheelchair basketball. (Summer 2025): A motion-controlled sports game inspired by wheelchair basketball. Pokémon Legends: Z-A (October 16, 2025): An action role-playing game set in Lumiose City, focusing on urban redevelopment and featuring Mega Evolutions. (October 16, 2025): An action role-playing game set in Lumiose City, focusing on urban redevelopment and featuring Mega Evolutions. Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar (August 27, 2025): A farming simulation game where players manage a farm and participate in a weekly bazaar. (August 27, 2025): A farming simulation game where players manage a farm and participate in a weekly bazaar. Tamagotchi Plaza (June 27, 2025): A virtual pet simulation game where players can raise and interact with Tamagotchis. Third-Party games available now (Released June 5, 2025) Nintendo Switch 2 is now officially out worldwide! — Nintendo Switch 2 News (@NinSwitchIntel) June 5, 2025 Several third-party developers have launched their games alongside the Nintendo Switch 2, providing a diverse selection of genres and experiences. Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition : An open-world action-adventure game set in a dystopian future. : An open-world action-adventure game set in a dystopian future. Hogwarts Legacy : An immersive role-playing game set in the Harry Potter universe. : An immersive role-playing game set in the Harry Potter universe. Street Fighter 6 : The latest installment in the iconic fighting game series. : The latest installment in the iconic fighting game series. Hitman World of Assassination – Signature Edition : A stealth-based game where players take on the role of Agent 47. : A stealth-based game where players take on the role of Agent 47. Deltarune (Chapters 1–4) : A role-playing game with a unique storytelling approach. : A role-playing game with a unique storytelling approach. Yakuza 0 Director's Cut : An action-adventure game set in Japan's criminal underworld. : An action-adventure game set in Japan's criminal underworld. Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster : A remastered version of the classic role-playing game. : A remastered version of the classic role-playing game. Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S : A puzzle game combining elements of Puyo Puyo and Tetris. : A puzzle game combining elements of Puyo Puyo and Tetris. Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess : An action game with mythological themes. : An action game with mythological themes. Nobunaga's Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition: A historical simulation game set in feudal Japan. Third-party games coming soon Anticipated third-party titles are set to enhance the Nintendo Switch 2 console games lineup further. Hades II (2025): A roguelike action role-playing game where players battle through the Underworld. (2025): A roguelike action role-playing game where players battle through the Underworld. Hollow Knight: Silksong (2025): A sequel to the critically acclaimed action-adventure game. (2025): A sequel to the critically acclaimed action-adventure game. Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade (2025): An enhanced version of the classic RPG with updated graphics and gameplay. (2025): An enhanced version of the classic RPG with updated graphics and gameplay. Borderlands 4 (2025): A first-person shooter with role-playing elements and a focus on loot collection. (2025): A first-person shooter with role-playing elements and a focus on loot collection. Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition (2025): An open-world action RPG with challenging combat and deep lore. (2025): An open-world action RPG with challenging combat and deep lore. Marvel Cosmic Invasion (2025): An action game featuring characters from the Marvel universe. (2025): An action game featuring characters from the Marvel universe. Witchbrook (2025): A life simulation game set in a magical school. (2025): A life simulation game set in a magical school. Star Wars Outlaws (2025): An open-world game set in the Star Wars universe. (2025): An open-world game set in the Star Wars universe. Professor Layton and The New World of Steam (2025): A puzzle-adventure game featuring the famous professor. (2025): A puzzle-adventure game featuring the famous professor. Two Point Museum (2025): A simulation game where players manage a museum. GameCube Classics via Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Nintendo has added several GameCube classics to the Nintendo Switch Online service, allowing players to revisit these beloved titles. The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker : An action-adventure game with a distinctive cel-shaded art style. : An action-adventure game with a distinctive cel-shaded art style. Soulcalibur II : A weapon-based fighting game featuring a diverse cast of characters. : A weapon-based fighting game featuring a diverse cast of characters. F-Zero GX: A high-speed futuristic racing game. Leaked or rumoured games coming to Nintendo Switch 2 console While not officially confirmed, several titles are reported to be in development for the Nintendo Switch 2. Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 : A first-person shooter set in various global locations. : A first-person shooter set in various global locations. Diablo IV : An action role-playing game featuring dark fantasy elements. : An action role-playing game featuring dark fantasy elements. Halo: The Master Chief Collection : A compilation of Halo games featuring the iconic protagonist. : A compilation of Halo games featuring the iconic protagonist. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth : The next installment in the Final Fantasy VII remake series. : The next installment in the Final Fantasy VII remake series. Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake 6/6/2025 11:7:4
The National
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Switch 2: The best games available on launch day, ranked
The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 launched worldwide today. Following the immense success of the first Switch console, which sold 152.12 million units since 2017, gaming enthusiasts are looking forward to getting their hands on the new and improved version. What's a console without games, though? And Switch 2 has an impressive selection of new games to play. Here, we list some of the most significant game releases, and what fans can expect from each experience. 1. Mario Kart World The biggest game release alongside the launch of the Switch 2 is Mario Kart World, the first new mainline entry in the Mario Kart series in over a decade. This instalment introduces open-world tracks, off-road mechanics, elimination modes and supports up to 24-player races. It also features unlockable costumes, which offer a fresh take on the beloved racing series. 2. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom Remastered Both beloved titles from Switch return with enhanced graphics and performance, taking full advantage of Switch 2's upgraded hardware. These remasters provide an opportunity for players to revisit the game's kingdom of Hyrule with improved visuals and smoother gameplay. 3. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond This game marks protagonist Samus Aran's most ambitious adventure yet. Set in the alien world of Viewros, the game adds psychic abilities to her arsenal, allowing for new puzzle mechanics and combat strategies. The storytelling adopts a darker tone, with cinematic cutscenes and dialogue-driven encounters. The visuals are powered by Unreal Engine 5, showcasing realistic environments, particle effects and fluid character animations. 4. Donkey Kong Bananza In Donkey Kong Bananza, players are treated to vibrant worlds with levels that include jungles, volcanoes and futuristic cities. Each level is fully destructible, offering multiple paths and secrets depending on how the player interacts with the environment. The game supports two-player co-op, with other characters joining the adventure. Kong's new abilities such as wall-climbing and explosive stomps, allow for exploration opportunities. 5. Super Mario Party Jamboree With more than 200 mini-games and 10 new boards, Super Mario Party Jamboree renews the party game genre. The boards are now interactive with dynamic weather and events that can change the outcome. There's also a 100-player online tournament mode, which adds a competitive experience. Characters in the game now have personal items that allow them the option of strategic plays. The custom mini-game playlists, meanwhile, will let players create their own party experience. 6. Hades II Hades II is a roguelike action game that follows Melinoe, the immortal Princess of the Underworld and sister to Zagreus, as she embarks on a quest to defeat Chronos, the Titan of Time, who has imprisoned her family. Building on the success of the first game, Hades II introduces new weapons, abilities, and a deeper narrative rooted in Greek mythology. Players can explore expanded realms, engage with diverse characters, and experience dynamic combat infused with dark sorcery and Olympian boons.
Yahoo
04-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond Hands-On Preview — Retro's Return Delivers a Stunning Evolution
After years of anticipation, Nintendo fans can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. With its release confirmed for 2025, the game is set to make its debut on both the original Nintendo Switch and the newly unveiled Nintendo Switch 2. At an event in NYC, I had a chance to play a 20-minute segment from the beginning of the game. The next-generation release brings cutting-edge enhancements for the new console, such as performance mode running at 120 FPS at 1080p and a 4K mode, and reignited my excitement for what could be one of the most ambitious entries in the Metroid Prime series. If the early segment is anything to go by, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is shaping up to be a must-own title for the Nintendo Switch 2's launch library. For anyone following the journey up to this point, the development of the game has been a bit rocky, to say the least. Nintendo originally handed development to Bandai Namco, but concerns over quality led to a complete restart in 2019 under Retro Studios, the team responsible for the critically acclaimed Metroid Prime trilogy. This decision was met with relief from fans, many of whom regard Retro as the true keepers of Samus Aran's intergalactic legacy. If my time with the game is anything to go by, that trust was justified. If you watched the Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Direct, the latest trailer provided a tantalizing glimpse into Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, and with Nintendo proudly demoing the game during the Nintendo Switch preview event, I can say I am impressed. Samus Aran returns with her iconic Power Suit and arsenal, including staples like the Morph Ball, Missile Launcher, and Scan Visor, and I can safely say the Metroid series has never looked better. The 1080p 120 FPS performance mode version of the game was at the event, running on the Nintendo Switch 2, and the world of the game came to life. Every enemy, explosion, and character you run into feels more defined and realized than ever before. Retro Studios has taken what the Nintendo Switch 2 offers and pushed the series as far as it could go. It is amazing to see all aspects we know from past installments and even from the 2D-style adventures, realized in stunning 3D, with all the particle effects, detail, and refinement this new system allows. While I only got to test out the first segment of the game and did not get to explore many of the new locations promised in the trailer, what I did see was a good showcase of what the Nintendo Switch 2 edition of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond allows. As I mentioned above, players can now choose between two graphical modes: Quality Mode delivers 4K resolution at 60 frames per second (fps) with HDR support when docked, while Performance Mode prioritizes fluidity with 120 fps at 1080p resolution. Even handheld play benefits from improved visuals and HDR support, ensuring that the visuals and intricate architecture look stunning across all formats and playstyles. I sadly did not get the chance to see handheld mode being played during the event, with all my experience being done in docked mode. But judging by how well the screen on the Nintendo Switch 2 looks, both modes will provide a full experience of what the game can be and showcase the visuals, flair, and style put into the title. What is perhaps the biggest change for the series—and something I, as a PC shooter lover, was excited to test out—is the new alternative control scheme utilizing Joy-Con mouse capabilities, which introduces a fresh way to interact with Samus' environment. This feature could redefine how players navigate puzzles and aim their weapons, offering greater precision and immersion. Honestly, it does feel very similar to what you could find with a PC shooter. I will say it took me quite a bit of time to adapt to how it works, with the mouse mode feeling very odd at first, but once it clicked, it proved to be a new way to play that I quickly fell in love with. For those sticking with their original Switch consoles, Nintendo has confirmed that an upgrade pack will enable access to these new features on Switch 2 without compromising compatibility. If I had any major gripe to say about Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, it would be how much of a Halo vibe the new installment gave off. The early mission I played has you working alongside Galactic Federation soldiers as they fend off an attack from space pirates — as seems to be the way in the Metroid series. The models struck me with how much they resembled the soldiers you would see around a Halo mission. Thankfully, from what I was told by the person guiding me through the segment of the game, this is not indicative of the final game, and you will be thrust into a more isolated situation as you progress through the rest of the game. That brings me to my next issue: the sense of solitude the series is known for. It was not present at any point during the demo. It was amazing to hear that the rest of the game would feel much more isolated in comparison to the early section. While it looked stunning, with plenty of aspects that showcased Samus Aran's arsenal, including the Morph Ball and weapons, it never evoked the sense of being alone and working through puzzles and areas by yourself. That being said, as an early showcase for the game, it worked well and gave a glimpse of what the game could be. The final boss fight of the demo, in particular, provided that sense of challenge, puzzle-solving, and dread I loved seeing in past Metroid Prime games. It is always a good feeling to overcome obstacles larger than Samus, and the way this game made it feel overwhelming works with the right level of body horror and Metroid-forced evolution that I hoped to see from the series. Was it challenging? Not especially, but it worked as a first big obstacle to set the tone and overall sense of what Metroid Prime 4: Beyond was going to be like. Retro Studios has consistently demonstrated its ability to innovate while respecting Metroid's core identity. The original Metroid Prime trilogy transitioned the series into first-person gameplay without losing its focus on exploration and atmosphere — a gamble that paid off handsomely both critically and commercially. The studio's commitment to quality shines through in every detail, from intricate environmental storytelling via Scan Visor logs to immersive soundscapes that heighten tension and wonder. If the gameplay section I played is any indication, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is ready to push boundaries once again. New abilities, modern graphics, and new optional refined controls promise a fresh experience while staying true to what makes Metroid special: its ability to immerse players in alien worlds full of mystery and challenge, all while keeping true to the roots people have loved up to this point—something not many studios can straddle well. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the franchise, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond looks set to deliver an unforgettable journey through uncharted territory.
