Metroid Prime 4 gameplay was “firmly Switch 1” footage, not Switch 2

During the most recent Nintendo Direct presentation, all attention was centered on games destined for the original Nintendo Switch console, with Metroid Prime 4 taking center stage. The highly anticipated return of Samus was emphasized, as she exhibited new psychic abilities. Although the game appears visually stunning, there’s some speculation about whether the demonstrated gameplay was running on the original console or its upcoming successor.

Digital Foundry experts on video game technology suggest that the technical structure of the Metroid Prime 4 gameplay reveal appears to utilize the original Nintendo Switch hardware. Despite the game’s stunning visuals at a 60fps rate, there’s nothing technically advanced in it that can’t be achieved with the 2017 handheld console.

Metroid Prime 4 definitely wasn’t Switch 2

During the most recent two-hour episode of DF Direct Weekly, Digital Foundry’s Oliver McKenzie shared his insights as to why the gameplay reveal for Metroid Prime 4 appears to be running on the original handheld system. In essence, the technical structure of the game closely resembles that of the upcoming 2023 Metroid Prime Remastered, boasting impressive new artistic direction.

The graphics expert opined that there seems to be intriguing clues within the trailer about the possible identity of the game’s platform, and these indications lean towards it potentially being the Switch 2.

Fundamentally, the tech in Metroid Prime 4 closely mirrors Retro Studios’ remaster of the initial game. The game relies heavily on pre-rendered lighting and shadows, and it appears to occur primarily within more confined spaces to minimize rendering demands.

In a Nintendo Switch (docked), Metroid Prime 4 operates at a resolution of 900 pixels and maintains a smooth 60 frames per second. However, details regarding the game’s resolution while playing in handheld mode have yet to be disclosed.

Regarding the graphics, although the game appears stunning, it runs at 900 pixels in its docked mode with a frame rate of 60fps and minimal anti-aliasing. Despite looking good, it seems unusual that a game on the rumored more powerful Nintendo Switch 2 (which is said to have DLSS support) would only offer a 900p image for its handheld version.

The game appears quite rugged and unpolished, but that’s not necessarily a negative aspect. I’ve checked the pixel count and resolution, which seem to hover around 900p, similar to Metroid Prime Remastered. However, there’s no indication of advanced features like DLSS, TAA, or higher-resolution rendering typically found in Nintendo Switch 2 games.

They commented that the overall look of this trailer seems to fit more within the realm of the first Switch model. If it were the second Switch, they would find it quite surprising.

By the close of the day, Metroid Prime 4 remains an exceptional gem for the Nintendo Switch, taxing the system to its utmost potential. The game bears resemblance to late-generation Xbox 360 titles like Halo 4, outshining other games on that console visually. It’s a stunningly beautiful game that we eagerly anticipate playing. Furthermore, there’s a possibility that the game may be upgraded for the Switch 2, making it even more breathtaking to behold.

Read More

2025-04-01 17:40