Metroid Prime 4 ranks as one of the most anticipated Switch games so far, and given that it was revealed almost two years ago, the more optimistic fans out there may have been hoping for a Christmas 2019 – or at least Christmas 2020 – release. Today's dramatic news that development of the game has effectively been restarted from scratch and original Metroid Prime trilogy studio Retro has been brought on board means we're unlikely to see this epic release for at least another two years, if not significantly longer.
This unexpected announcement – delivered by a contrite Shinya Takahashi – leaves a Samus-shaped hole in the Switch's release schedule that may be tricky to fill, but it shows a side of Nintendo that is arguably unique in the world of gaming. What other company would issue such an earnest and honest development update in video form, especially after making assurances in the past that all was well? The company's Japanese culture obviously plays into this – in Japan, failure has to be owned and accepted if you want to move on and learn from it, and transparency is highly valued – but even so, we imagine you watched that update with a slackened jaw, such was the power of its disarming honesty.
The internet predictably lit up at the news, but on the whole, it would seem that Nintendo's approach has worked:
So, Metroid Prime 4 has now been rebooted, and the years of work that have been invested so far are effectively null and void. While we can't fault Nintendo for being so open about this – it would have been so easy to brush this under the carpet – you have to ponder exactly what went wrong with the game for such a remarkable turn of events to occur?
From day one, it was made clear that Retro Studios was not involved with the fourth Metroid Prime, and rumours circulated that Bandai Namco was helping with production – something it has done on other key Nintendo games. What was definitely known was that an internal team was heading development, with Kensuke Tanabe leading production. We can only guess at what has happened – it may well come out in the wash as the months roll by – but it would seem that Metroid Prime 4 was not hitting the kind of quality level that Nintendo expected; an almost unthinkable admission for the Japanese giant to make, especially when you consider how much pride it has in the talent of its own internal teams.
Retro Studios – a Nintendo-owned second-party company – is now officially in the frame, and we assume whatever other projects it was working on will either be delayed, scrapped or perhaps even proceed as normal; again, we imagine this is something that will become clear as reports and insider information inevitably trickles out of the company throughout 2019. But it begs the question: why on earth wasn't Retro involved from day one? Was the studio simply too busy to take up the challenge, or did it initially decline the offer? Perhaps Nintendo began development of Metroid Prime 4 without consulting Retro – as is its prerogative, as it is the sole owner of the IP. Retro hasn't been all that active of late, so you have to wonder precisely what projects the esteemed firm has on its plate right now.
Looking at this from a totally unemotional perspective, Metroid Prime 4 with Retro involved is sure to be a mouth-watering prospect, even if the bulk of the staff involved with the first three games have since moved onto other companies. As Shigeru Miyamoto himself said, "A delayed game is eventually good, but a rushed game is forever bad." We're sure most of you reading this will be of the opinion that a poor-quality Metroid Prime 4 in 2020 wouldn't have been anywhere near as satisfactory as an amazing one released a few years later, but it's only human to be disappointed at the news that something you've been looking forward to is now so much further away.
Still, we'd like to know what you think. Vote in the poll below and be sure to leave a comment to share your feelings; how does it feel to know that Metroid Prime 4 is delayed, but will hopefully arrive in better shape as a result? And does this mean we'll now see that elusive Metroid Prime Trilogy Switch port we've all been asking for?
Comments 307
This is honestly a very good thing. I don't know why Retro Studios weren't just involved from the beginning
I'd rather they take plenty of time to get it right. Retro's involvement is a good thing too. The delay doesn't disappoint me since I've got so much other stuff to worry about, and besides, I don't get that excited for any video game I haven't even seen yet.
tbh, why should the delay matter?
you can't miss what you never had.
and it's not like there's no major first-party releases to look forward to this year.
It's good that Nintendo was willing to relocate the game based on development problems and it's good to see that the studio is willing to be open with fans about it. It's a shame that it'll be delayed but this decision will be a good one for the studio and fans.
I'd be excited if Retro still had the same staff in place, but they've all moved on. The studio that made the Prime trilogy still has the same name, that's all.
Consider the alternative: Njntendo could keep this under wraps and let Prime 4 become Nintendo's Final Fantasy 7 remake.
Plus, pretty much everyone wanted Retro to develop it in the first place, so this is really the best way they could have possibly handled the game's development troubles. Honestly, I'm more excited for the game now that I know Retro is behind the wheel!
After the initial wave of disappointment, I’m actually pretty happy. Sure, we’re going to be waiting another couple years for this, at least, but it’s in the hands of very talented people now who have proven their pedigree. I’ve recently been playing through The Prime trilogy again, and after seeing Retro’s work and gorgeous art direction all over again, I’m beyond thrilled to see what they’ll do in HD.
I think the lesson that can be learned from all of this is not to announce things when you have nothing to show. Nintendo was way too excited to play the Metroid card to build excitement two years ago and now they’re eating that announcement (albeit with great honesty and humility).
Of course it's a good thing. You wouldn't want it to become Metroid Prime: Federation Force on 3DS.
Sucks we have to wait for another 3 plus years but I'd rather have the game be good. Just not sure anyone at Retro is left to get the job done!
I'm elated not just by the delay but also that Retro Studios is developing it as well. I've already mentioned this in the previous article, but this means I have a lot of time to get into the Prime trilogy before this comes out.
As far as that poll goes, none of the above. I think this is probably a good thing. I was worried about what the game might look like with a different developer and now I'm much more confident that the final product will be worth the wait with Retro Studios at the helm. But I wouldn't go as far as saying I'm over the moon about having to wait possibly several more years for the game. Would have preferred the game to both be really good and release this year if I had the choice, haha.
It sucks but it beats having a shoddy game.
My thoughts, summarized: https://twitter.com/JonPonikvar/status/1088806345543958530?s=19
@Retupmocnin The only reason people hate Federation Force is because it was a spin off at a time when the main series was totally neglected. Anyone who actually bothered to play the game all the way through would have found it to be an excellent and fun team shooter, especially in co-op. The only sin it committed was having a Metroid label.
I know it's for the best blah blah blah, but I feel really sad. There is a strong possibility we may not see it on the Switch, but on whatever comes next...
Well, this is a good thing big companies can do, they got the resources to delete a project and restart it to make it right.
Sadly it rarely happens, but I'm glad Nintendo took this route.
And to be honest for me it's even a sort of very good news, I actually still have to tackle properly the whole trilogy, so this extra time before 4 won't go to waste.
Today is my birthday (34!). Woke up, checked YouTube, saw there was an update about Prime 4 and thought "Woah! What a birthday surprise! Finally some footage." And then... Ultimate letdown.
That said, I'd rather it be delayed for quality standards than rushed. I can wait, but this is certainly an anti-birthday gift.
Due to the lack of info and updates on this game, I think many of us expected this to be pushed from 2019 anyways. I'm glad that Retro is involved moving forward.
My only concern is that this game was already under massive expectations. A delay like this will put even more pressure on the outcome to be exceptional. I hope they can pull it off.
And this will come out on the Switch (some form of it). I think this life-cycle will surpass the normal 5/6 year mark.
"A delayed game is eventually good".
Yes - if from Nintendo
Not necessarily yes - from anyone else.
I think they should do a joint release for the switch and switch 2 and delay it some more similar to how we waited for breath of the wild on the Wii u and make another video and be honest about it then redeem the praise. Nintendo’s so great and their so honest about it. They should do this all the time. It might just work in their favour and public image support 😉
Shown in beginning of switch life’s cycle, released by the end of its lifecycle?
I feel like the news of the day is that Retro Studio was available.
So it means Retro finished (or has almost finished) the game they were working on since DK Tropical Freeze and that it will be announced very shortly.
You just have to read between lines : they just said Retro Studios was not available two years ago and now they are.
So no mediocre Metroid Prime 4 and a new Retro Studio game very soon : two great news in one day !
Maybe we'll get another 2D Metroid in the meantime!
How about a brand new 2-D Metroid game in the interim to keep us going Nintendo? I loved Samus returns so a new entry built for Switch in a similar vein would help with the wait.
@Awesoman Beat me to it!
My guess is Retro initially declined to work on 4, after all, having work on the series for so long, they probably would want to try something new. Sure, Nintendo could have force it on them then, but working for something you like, is better than something you did because you are forced to...
Now a few years, and several other projects later, Retro might be more willing to handle it again...
I want a Metroid Prime game on the Switch as highly regarded as Mario Odyssey and Zelda Breath of the Wild, if Nintendo are saying the current development is not up to their standards then I'm more than happy to wait.
It's a very odd situation, but I'm pretty happy, mostly because Retro Studios is involved. Yeah, a lot of people involved in the original Prime trilogy are gone, but Tropical Freeze was amazing and I trust them with Prime 4. Nintendo's transparency was also very refreshing.
It's a shame that the develpment will be restarted, however I'm super happy that Retro Studios will resuming their role in creating the next chapter. In the meantime, a Metroid Prime Trilogy HD collection for Switch will soften the blow.
Activates Mom voice
I'm not mad, I'm just disappointed.
Retro should've been there since the beggining...
Anyway, in order to compensate, they'd better bring the original trilogy remastered by the end of this year!
Really stinks for people who really wanted it. I was going to buy it despite not being a huge Metroid fan, so I’m not that affected. Here’s hoping that it’s worth the wait.
@sketchturner Happy birthday, though! 🥳🎉
Disappointed but if the game is better for it I'm aboard. I have a lengthy backlog of games I still need to beat so no biggie. I do think If Nintendo would at least throw us Metroid fans a bone and re-release a Prime Trilogy in HD it would hold us over for another 2-3 years (and maybe a remastered 2D version too)
I just wanna see a third person mode in this game please... that's all I ask!
Heartbroken but relieved at the same time, Bandai Namco never felt like a good choice to me, knowing it's back in Retros hands makes the wait worth it.
All fine. They better give us a proper one and rushed out game
It's crappy and unprofessional, but at least they had the balls to do the right thing and be open about it, instead of letting that can of worms fester for years in silence while the rumors pry it open.
That, and Retro being in charge of the project is a good thing. See you all in 2024 or so.
Small correction to the article, Retro is a first party studio, not second party.
Back on topic: Although dissapointed that it was delayed, all my worries were washed away when they announced that Retro is on board. Mad respect for them for admitting their faults.
Federation Force HD please.
I think it's important to realize that games that are in the middle of development tend to look pretty ugly. Things run at 5 frames per second, a lot of bugs, animations look wrong, etc. Given the fact Nintendo really focuses on quality control, I'm assuming something went wrong within development that made Prime 4 getting delayed
It’s good and it probably means that whatever Retro’s been working on is nearly done since they’re a studio that only makes one game at a time. So that’s something to look forward to at least.
It's sad, but on the other hand it's good. Retro Studios will hopefully create an outstanding MP4 and maybe we will see an HD Trilogy this year.
I'm a bit disappointed that they didn't do this from the beginning, but trying new and different things is what Nintendo do and is what we love them for, the fact that they still live and learn is a very good sign
Its a shame but good to see Retro Studios behind the wheel, whilst we're waiting how about giving us the Trilogy to keep us going
The best things in life are worth waiting on.
Damn... It's a bummer but needed to keep their standards high. Well sounds like Nintendo doesn't know how to make a FPS adventure. Western developer knows best. Either case Bayonetta can't let me down right?
There should be an option like this: "I hope this doesn't mean that Star Fox game Retro was working on was cancelled."
I hope to god that whatever retro have been working on for the last 5 years isn't delayed.
Oh well this just paves the way for prime trilogy HD remaster to fill the hole
Disappointed but I understand the decision if the work that was already done wasn’t up to scratch. I’m a bit worried though that whatever Retro had been working on for the past few years will disappear. Maybe they were close to finishing whatever project it was they were involved in?
On the one hand, yes I am disappointed, on the other hand I am rather with Nintendo. There are already too many games under the sun that needed to meet an abritrary deadline and handing this over to Retro Studios and start fresh, is better than delivering another OTHER M.
Also in unreleated news, this means whatever Retro Studios is working on / has been working on after the Tropical Freeze port is coming, so let's rejoice in that.
I’m scared for Retro. Nintendo and its Metroid producers don’t know how to handle the franchise. I feel like this was a decision that should have been made 2 years ago and now Retro will have to carry the pressure to deliver.
Que the perfect time for a Metroid Prime Trilogy port in the mean time? I think yes.
Better than a subpar product that's going to taint the brand and come off as a half ass attempt at a cash grab based on the brand name
@DayOfLavos it’s a really good thing that Nintendo wasted development resources and has nothing to show for it? Moreover one of their best studios is now preoccupied with the mess meaning they might be dormant for another 3-4 years on top of their already five year quiet period. It appears once again that Nintendo has issues regarding consistency in their release calendars
I'm pleased both to have Retro back on the title and that Nintendo was uncharacteristically open about it.
Like others have said though, getting the metroid trilogy port to tide us over would be the best way to cushion this blow...
The fact they made this public shows how much they hated the decision to start again. Kudos to Nintendo for being up front. If they were not happy with the game, I don't want to play it. I would rather have a great Metroid Prime 4 than a subpar Metroid Prime game. It has been too long without an entry in the series, a disappointing game might kill it.
@Hoho Though there are some things they can do to accelerate the problems, i.e. making some dev teams a bit bigger. Sure you can only do this at certain levels and until a certain stage of the game and you just can't press a magic button, but I think they are well aware that they won't be able to catch up without any sacrifices.
Also a quick research shows that Bandai Namco handled Prime 4 until now, so all Nintendo lost is money in that regard.
For example they can go shopping for some Nintendo Exlclusive Deals rom some devs.
@Steevil old games being rereleased in place of new ones is hardly consolation.
But hey I shouldn’t expect anything different from the switch.
One question:
How can you all be sure that Retro Studios will make it right?
They have done nothing close to a game like Prime for ages.
If the crew is not the same as back then, shouldn't we worry?
It's not gonna be the same director. For all we know it might be the same team who's done nothing but the platformer Donkey Kong.
It could go wrong. Hopefully not though.
All I'm saying is, it's like expecting a good season from Manchester United.
@Hoho I agree that rereleasing old games is less than ideal, but is definitely not the same on the Switch than with any other console. Releasing old games on a standard home console can definitely be subpar, but the ability to play classics anywhere on the Switch is what makes ports so desirable and necessary.
They’ve done the right thing. Metroid can’t afford another Federaton Force or Other M.
There’s plenty of other games coming out anyway. Get it right.
@Aneira That is why they are probably sending a producer along.
@Aneira
As a lifelong United fan I am deeply....no wait, it’s a good point. 😉
I’m not sure how many of the staff from the original series are even at Retro anymore.
Correct me if I'm wrong - but this doesn't explain Retro's time until now right? They are on board now – but presumably there is still some other massive project from Retro right?
I do think the HD Trilogy would be a wise move asap now – if not near essential.
@brunojenso Yup, it might mean that Retro was / is in the final stages in this project and the dev team that would handle early stages of development would probably start with MP4 right away.
I knew this was gonna happen when they couldn't even give an update at E3 2018, I knew something was fishy.
They should have just given it to retro to begin with, why go with a different developer when the guys you had done such a cracking job before!? If it's not broken why fix it?
While I'm a little disappointed by the fact that I won't be able to play the game this year, I'm proud of Nintendo for admitting that what they have done so far is not up to the standards and that they are starting from the beginning again.
To top it off, the inclusion of Retro Studios just makes me happy.
@MEGAMAN_D My hot take is to have Retro reinvent other dormant IPs. Metroid Prime is a prime (pun intended) example of how they transformed the Metroid IP and at the same time gave Nintendo a dedicated FPS (with exploration).
What if they pulled a dinosaur planet and Miyamoto convinced Retro to rebrand its current project as Metroid Prime 4? I’m half joking but it’s happened before. 😛
Truthfully gutted. But you know how they fix it? Give us Samus returns on the Switch with a special edition physical release that contains a vial of Samus's actual sweat.
I'm really fine with it
@brunojenso I'd much rather samus returns HD on switch.
I would like to see footage of the scraped MP 4
@Hoho
Re-releases is not a Switch only issue....this from someone who has just bought Castlevania Symphony of the Night for the 5th time and console, and Skyrim for seemingly the bazillionth (VR Skyrim!)
Overall I'm really happy with the mix of new releases and ports on the Switch, I think that it has a really healthy library.
@Lemmy_the_Koopa going on 6 years since pikmin 3, 5 years since retro’s last offering, 6 years since the last 2D Mario, (going on 4 since super Mario maker), 3 years since next levels last offering(federation force), 6 years since animal crossing, 4 1/2 years since the last Mario kart with no new announcement. Going on 3 years since the last paper Mario(which was kinda rushed and middling). I’m probably forgetting others. Something is out of sync is my point.
It's a shame but at least Nintendo are transparent about it rather than keeping quiet for even more years.
GOOD!!! It's better to produce a quality game that turns out good and fun to play, rather than rushing a game for the sake of selling its name.
I’m very disappointed by the delay but also very happy that they chose to not just cancel the game completely.
@Hoho Don't you worry I hear and not dismiss your point completely. You are talking with someone that is still waiting for his own F-Zero game... so yeah it's high time for some IPs to hit.
I can at this point hope is that they wanteds to clear the air about the Metroid Prime 4 before a Nintendo Direct and not have the Direct to be associated with that delayed Metroid Prime 4, but rahter what games are coming. So they still got potential to redeem themselves.
@YeshaYahu5417 Fallout 76 anydoby :3
Is it just me, or did that footage look like it was stripped from an upcoming Nintendo Direct?
@Der Probably they wanted to seperate the direct with upcomign games from the negative news that will likely get more coverage...
@Wak_mbpt buying new consoles to play old games.....great. I have a job where I can, on average play 3 hours of switch a day at said job and yet somehow I don’t regard the switch’s portability as reason enough to retread old ground.
Hugely disappointing i understand why they did it and trust them. There are a lot of AAA titles to go up against an if they don't think its right then it makes sense.
One thing i think we all need to be thankful for is the level of respect to the consumer and the fans in that video. They didn't have to do that but they did and it showed a lot of respect. Far more than most developers.
@Aneira
If Tropical Freeze is anything to go by I have full confidence in RETRO doing Prime 4. That’s one of the best 2D platformers ever made.
Come to think of it, I don’t think I’ve ever played a bad game from RETRO.. I just wish they could push out titles quicker.
@Lemmy_the_Koopa maybe that’s true; one can hope. Even so, games are overdue at this point, so I don’t believe my tone should be ecstatic or grateful when these do arrive.
I don’t disagree with Nintendo’s decision to scrap what they had, I’m irked by the mishandling of development time.
I can't see how this is anything but a good decision. Obviously the game they had developed up to this point did not meet Nintendo's extremely high standards, so starting over from scratch is likely the best possible decision. Sure, delays suck, but I'd rather have a great game in two-years than a mediocre game in two-months.
@brunojenso Really! wow. Do you not feel like 2D metroidvania's are already two-a-penny on Switch and that truly great 3D adventures are as rare as can be? I've all the 2D scrollers I could ever need on Switch already.
I think the choices in the poll are not appropriate.....my choice would be:
Another promise of Metroid got me to buy a nintendo console, only to be let down again. No way it's good news. The Switch is not getting Metroid....accept it folks.
Switch = WiiU port machine.
Today, is probably the day the switch died. Not wasting any more money on this machine.
I'm fine with this. I hope someday we get to see what they originally came up with. I'm sure unseen64's cancelled senses are tingling.
@purpleibby "Switch = WiiU port machine."
With the exception of the vast number of games that are not ports, right?
@Hoho Sure, I think we are at the same page than. Though I take solace that we might get to see something that Retro Studios was working on previously; i simply refuse to believe that all they did was either doing nothing or helping on this or that.
@MarioBrickLayer I wouldn't get your hopes up that high. Remember that Nintendo themselves developed those two games you mentioned, and we've established that Nintendo games, under their own development without any second-party studios, are always of premium quality. Maybe they will have the Nintendo EPD assist with Metroid Prime 4 though, who knows. I feel like Yoshio Sakamoto needs to as well if they don't have anymore veteran staff.
@melwheezy Which means I wasted my money on this product....They said Metroid would be for the switch....it's not gonna happen. Folks, this is a huge blunder. You saw the excitement out there for the MP4 announcement, folks are gonna be let down Just what else could possibly be coming that could compare? The switch is dead....hype is gone.
@CharlieSmile
We've had the first trilogy. That's enough for people to imagine what it might be like, and then miss it not being here.
Meanwhile, across the street from Nintendo HQ in Redmond, Washington, Xbox is ecstatic that maybe, just maybe, this news will finally be the thing that makes everyone forget Scalebound was cancelled.
I think it's a BAD idea to cut Nintendo slack here. They FINALLY get back on track, and they blew it.
"A delayed game is eventually good, but a rushed game is forever bad."
Shigeru Miyamoto
@purpleibby I think if MP4 lands on the succesor console it will be a port, because I don't think that Nintendo has a current console that far in dev that they can start developing games. At the least this will be a Breath of the Wild, where there is at least a Switch version, too.
@Garage That might be true....buy the next system...It MIGHT have it!....No thanks! I want some confirmation it's coming DEFINITELY for the switch.
There's no way to spin this, this sucks.
Oh wow! Retro has a pretty rocky history, so they will now have a ton of pressure on them to get this right. Some of the developers are no longer there. Hopefully they can get this done.
@purpleibby after my own heart
I honestly feel disappointed that they have to restart development, but it's also good that there willing to try again and make it even better! It'll give the fans more confidence knowing they'll make a good game! With that in mind, this probably means we won't see release until 2023 or 2024.
they will just fill in the void with more indies to cover up their hole with a few plasters.
as for the delay i'm not a big metroid fan but this has got me concerned if they will do the same with animal crossing, they also revealed a stock picture for that too.... this is not looking good really.
@purpleibby Goes to show you why people shouldn’t get excited for logos. The switch hype was dead in 2018, for myself anyway
I've unfortunately never played a Metroid game for more than a few minutes. The Metroid Prime Trilogy is somewhere in my backlog. I'm glad they have the humility to acknowledge they aren't meeting expectations. When the game was first announced, I expected a 2019 release. Then after years of nothing, 2020. Now, I see Holiday 2021 as the earliest possible release date.
Let's hope Animal Crossing isn't delayed. It already seems like it may not come out until the holiday season, and I really don't want it delayed into 2020.
@Hoho I'm tellin' ya! First they rob us of the VC, now no metroid for the 2nd console in a row(after a tease they're going to deliver!)!
@Lemmy_the_Koopa Nintendo direct for Monday
I'm so happy with this news! When I found out Retro wasn't involved I was so scared for the final product, luckily, apparently, so was Nintendo. I'd rather wait for a good game, then have a crappy game now!
This must have been heartbreaking for the people at Nintendo who were working on the game and now no longer are.
Put prime out for online subscribers and we can just move on from this... pathetic
@Barbara001 A good game for the future...but a crappy console for today.
@LuigiTheGreenFire Animal Crossing is a game that Nintendo's internal team develops. Now that their internal team is no longer working on Metroid Prime 4, Animal Crossing will be finished sooner if anything
@purpleibby Do you think Nintendo is happy about this situation? No one is happy about it. However, a bad game – that would have made it in time – wouldn't make us happy too. So this is the one and only real option.
Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeek!!!!!
Wow. No way a large blockbuster of a game like this takes 2 years to complete. I'm thinking more like 2024. I could be dead by then.
So what comes out first, the next big Zelda game or Metroid Prime 4? Zelda has a nice head start...
@Garage Maybe they should have took it to Retro to begin with. I'm not even sure that's gonna work out. I'm not too trusting of their assurances TBH, it's not the same people at Retro anymore. Sounds to me, like it's just words to placate fans they know will be disappointed.
@smashboy2000 very true.
@purpleibby you mean the Switch? I love the switch!!! Best console since the Gamecube. Certainly better then the other consoles right now! "Oooh another scary/stressy game that pumps up my bloodpressure for ps4/xbox one." I like my bloodpressure just the way it is, thnq, so gimme more Yoshi 😊😊😊
@Barbara001 be happy in 3-4 years
Yeah well, gamecube actually got a Metroid game.
i'm glad that Nintendo is giving Retro Studios the job to make Metroid Prime 4. whatever the original plan was, didn't seem to quite go well with Nintendo. so please do take your time on working on a great game that everyone will enjoy for years to come.
I wasn't expecting to see this until at least 2020 to be honest. As I stated in the previous article about this, I'm pleased at 1. Nintendo's honesty on the matter, and 2. that Retro Studios is behind the helm for this game.
Is it a few more years of waiting? Sure. But I can wait. I want this game to be the best it can be, and on a personal note...I already have plenty of games to play.
@Hoho yeah it's gonna take a while, but that's better then another Federation Force debacle. Could you imagine coming home and finally, after all those years, starting up Metroid Prime 4, after all the suspense, and then for it to be utter crap?! No thnq, I will rather wait a few years, so that the series keeps it standard. There's so much riding on this game, if it stinks and nobody buys it that will be the end of metroid forever. So nopes, I'll wait, there are gonna be lots of games in the meantime to keep me busy. 😊😊😊
I am ok with the cancellation for the reasons given and even happier Retro are onboard. So, ok, it's heart breaking it will be 3 years away...but I'll be waiting.
seeing as the EA activision bethesda of the world ship it out door in a broken ffffffffffffffffff poop pile of a state fair play Nintendo stepping up and restarting it.
Lot of thoughts in my head...
Glad to see the honesty and transparency.
Glad to see the concern about quality.
We may never know the story, but I'd say they were worried about getting another Other M or Federation Force. Good games on their own merits but not a true Prime Sequel.
Here's the thing about Retro...the people who were really behind the old Prime games have moved on. We are getting the Donkey Kong Country team here.
That being said, Tropical Freeze was amazing. Retro has added a lot of talent since then. They should have the more western sensibility that Prime needs to work.
The best news I think is that whatever Retro has been doing will come out soon. Hopefully that can be used to gauge expectations at this point. The hype will go up either way, though.
@purpleibby
“The switch is dead....hype is gone.”
Don’t be ridiculous. Calm down. A weapons grade temper tantrum isn’t going to help you.
@BradC40
2021 gives them nearly 3 years, that’ll be plenty. Who knows, some of the design work may already be done and it can reuse assets from the remaster of Metroid Prime Trilogy they’re definitely definitely doing (crosses fingers)
Of course it’s better to wait than release a crappy game. But Nintendo should have had Retro working on it from Day 1.
For me, it’s a huge blow. Metroid and Luigi are the only two games In the release schedule I was looking forward to. Last game I bought was Odyssey.
@purpleibby Now Nintendo is going to do everything that Metroid Prime 4 is going to work out just fine. This project now has too much media attention.
It'd be very smart to have Panic Button or someone similar port the original trilogy to Switch to hold over fans in the next few years.
I echo the sentiments of everyone else here. I'm disappointed that new Metroid won't be on the console this year, but it's great that they're keeping us updated and that Retro has it.
I feel sooo good about it!
Oh, wait . . .
That initial announcement always felt shady to me--a single logo and nothing else at all--and this basically seems to be the real truth of that situation imo.
I thought Metroid 4 was likely a long ways off after that pretty false announcement, as in it was just air and little more at that point imo, and now I know it's even further off than that.
Awesome!
But, whatever, where's a new F-Zero game, a new Punch-Out!!, a new Advance Wars, the official English translation of Mother 3!
This is sure getting a lot of attention for a game series whose biggest claim is "it might sell as much a Kirby game."
@purpleibby Wii u Vc mmmm.........
Although I take umbrage with you calling the switch a wii u port machine, that’s just patently false. Here’s proof:
Donkey Kong TF
Super Deluxe Mario is U
Captain Toad
Mk 8 DX
Pokken DX
Hyrule Warriors
Let’s not forget the 3rd parties new games
Skyrim
Wolfenstein 2
Doom
Monster Hunter Generations ultimate
Mega man legacy 1 and 2
Resident Evil revelations
Okami
Ray man legends
Child of light
L.A Noire
LEGO city Undercover
All new games, and then there’s indies, the most creative of all.
Shovel knight
Fast RMX
Xeodrifter
Mutant Mudds
Velocity 2X
World of Goo
Runbow
Stick it to the man
Steam world dig
Etc.
All new games, there was the occasional port such as Smash ultimate but that’s okay.
You owe all the developers who made these new games an apology
@westman98 Also one of its biggest claims, it could be argued, is being one of the highest quality and most beloved franchises out there. . . .
@westman98 ur my favourite person now
@sauce That was their strategy when Breath of the Wild on Wii U was delayed. Remade Wind Waker and Twilight Princess for Wii U during the waiting period
PLEASE UNDERSTAND......
@Hoho Was that sarcasm?
@WOLF13 no ur wrong the switch line up is historical and you’re just a hater, boo
Jk, 2018 was garbage and 2019 is so so thus far
@impurekind Indeed, and one of the most influential. Everyone is making Metroid clones(albeit retro ones)...except nintendo it seems. Metroid games are widely regarded by many as some of the best of all time.
@ALinkttPresent yes, but I meant it concerning ultimate (sorta)
This couldn't have been handled better IMO.
Animal Crossing, Yoshi, Luigi’s Mansion 3, Fire Emblem Three Houses, Town, Pokémon, are all coming this year. I remember Breath of the Wild being delayed many times, then it was released to critical acclaim and is one of the best games ever. I’m glad it’s being delayed. Before anyone tries to throw a hissy fit, look at Fallout 76. That’s what happens when you rush a game.
@Barbara001 I liked federation force...🤪.
Regardless of that an 8(ish) year development time on Metroid prime is silly, it should be a reinvention at that point, not a retread of 1(which is a wonderful game)
Pretty sure they won’t hurry to show a logo at E3 for a while. Maybe the failed first draft will make for a far superior outcome: WiiU - Switch? Sure there was plenty of potential in it - it takes a gutsy (and rich) studio to scrap and start again because they want it to be much better.
Also what’s the chance this means a direct is coming soon? They wanted to get this out of the way first and then focus on the positives. Who knows, maybe the rumoured trilogy is in there to soften the blow!?
Called it.
https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2019/01/feature_our_15_most_anticipated_nintendo_switch_games_of_2019#comment4861353
A lot more pressure will be on them to get that Pokemon game out, I think. Better hope they're ready.
Maybe I’ll take the time to play through prime 2, since it’s the only one I haven’t finished.
But I am bummed as Metroid probably my fav Nintendo ip, right next to Zelda.
They need to port over the trilogy now, not in a year, next month kind of thing. That will keep fans happy and give them some more income for prime 4.
@Hoho Of course. Next Level Games are masters of developing online games. I really hope they are working on Luigi's Mansion 3
@TJM There's a Nintendo Direct about once every calendar month, regardless of what is going on. That said, Nintendo might decide that the Nindies Showcase counts for January and not hold one until February.
Are we taking bets on the release date? The previous Metroid Prime games were all developed in a 2-3 year period, so I'm going to guess early 2021 for the release, maybe Spring.
It is what it is, it's hard to care all that much any which way since they haven't showed any sort footage of it yet.
Just hope that the wait will be worth it in the end.
@purpleibby if you can wait years for Breath of The Wild (weather or not you were excited for that game remains to been seen), you surely can wait years for Metroid Prime 4.
do you really want a bad game? or a good game? because, i want Nintendo to have the time to make this into a better game.
This news doesn't affect me in any way. The Metroid series just isn't my cup of tea, so I was never looking forward to it in the first place. Kinda blows for all the people who have been hotly anticipating this one, though.
@Hoho I think development started as much as 2 years ago. Games like Metroid weren't all that popular. It might even have gotten a boosr after the succes of the Bloodstained kickstarter, which showed Metroidvania's were still popular and could sell well. So in total a 4 to 5 year development... I've seen worse... (WHERE IS THAT FINAL FANTASY 7 REMAKE??? And how long did it take for FF vs XIII to be launched as FFXV)
I am really depressed but I'd rather it be a better game.
I don't know what to think about Retro working on the game now.
What has Retro been doing all this time? Is Retro still Retro?
@impurekind
If only such quality was reflected by actual commercial success rather than just Internet hype :/
I'm hoping for the best.
@Barbara001 10 years, to answer your last question
@Hoho lol I was like seriously !?
@CartoonDan Retro's leaders left after Metroid Prime 3 was completed. Since then, Retro has worked on Donkey Kong Country and Mario Kart. Metroid Prime 4 was not initially given to them because the main developers of the first 3 games were no longer there. But now they found a new person to be the project head, and decided that it just makes sense to have the same people doing the "lower" work that did that work on the first 3 games
Let them take their time. We don't want MP4 to turn out like Fallout 76, Atlas, or Sea of Thieves right? (Although Sea of Theives at least is fixing some of its issues.)
But I stand by their decision. They did this with Breath of the Wild, and it turned out amazing.
I'm skeptical Nintendo understands what made Metroid popular. Other M was all about the character Samus Aran and it explored her maternal instincts. That is NOT what people want in a Metroid game. Hopefully, Nintendo won't go that route again.
I’m not bothered at all, probably because I’m not the biggest Metroid fan out there. Still cool that Nintendo is honest about it and wants it to be a great game.
@ALinkttPresent oefhhh, the pain of that is still real... And then they said, you'll get DLC with alternate endings, we're gonna save those for last and then they said, NOPES, WE'RE DONE, BYE BYE... So, looking at that, I'm realising that what Nintendo is doing now is quite decent compared to what Square Enix is able to do... Gosh I forgot how angry that company can make me 😜
@Barbara001 Square Enix is a big company that makes amazing games, but it isn't Nintendo.
I would much rather them take their time with this game to make sure it's good, vs pushing it out and it just being..meh.
I've waited this long, another year or so won't kill me if needed. Do what ya'll need to do. o7
Maybe I'm just being salty but I find the first party support for Switch to have really taken a nosedive since a really good first year. Smash is awesome don't get me wrong but 2018 had a lot of Wii U ports and games like Kirby which, while fun, aren't really major titles. Metroid getting delayed isn't a real surprise as a static image really isn't indicative of something coming soon but I do wonder what Nintendo had in store for the Switch as they haven't really announced all that much. I'm hoping the new Pokemon makes it this year as that would be a huge game for 2019.
It just kind of feels similar to the Wii U situation at times with the major games seemingly coming out every couple months instead of almost weekly on the other consoles. While the third party support is much, much better the Switch still isn't getting most big third party games and the first party library isn't quite picking up the slack.
In addition, I wonder if Metroid might be a launch title for the Switch successor as 2021 would give the Switch a 5 year life and I doubt they'll let the Switch ride that long given how there are already rumors of a Switch Pro as it were.
Metroid Prime 4 is going to be a Switch game. Don't know why people believe it will be pushed exclusively to the Switch's successor. At most, it will be a cross-gen title.
Even Breath of the Wild was still released on the dead Wii U.
It's okay to be disappointed but never let fear-mongering get the better of you. smh to some comments.
Back to the topic, If Nintendo wants to make it even better by restarting it and this time putting Retro on board then let them.
I am good with the delay. It means they are looking to give us a great game. The fact that it is back in Retro's hands means that some of the team that made the originals great will have a hand in the new one.
If Nintendo wants to make their customers happy, they could release an HD updated version of Metroid Prime Trilogy for the Switch.
I'm disappointed. Announcing a game with just a title screen is amateur hour. The video apology is pathetic. I expect better from Nintendo.
Mixed feelings, but I guess I'm OK with it. Better wait for a good game than getting a bad game sooner.
It's truly impressive that more people are on the moon than actually mad about this.
@JDORS That's mainly Sakamoto. Tanabe doesn't really care about that.
@Devlind If you try to really sieve through every comment, you'll eventually find the salt.
Makes me wonder what was Retro doing during this time anyway.
Anywho. A major disappointment but if it's to make it better along with Retro at the helm, I'm game.
Huh, Quite surprised that the peeps are taking this rather well.
@Leuke The previous Prime games weren't in HD and Retro doesn't seem to be big enough to handle the project quickly. 4-5 years seem more likely.
I wasn't pining for this to begin with, simply happy that it was "coming eventually" as I've been too busy playing everything else anyway. For me personally, I will have plenty to play in it's 2019 stead (Assuming it was ever going to release this year anyway). As far as what this means to me going forward, I'm glad Retro will be heading it up, but unless they can salvage any of the progress that was made (assuming there is any to salvage), I expect this title to now be either a swansong title for the Switch, or a next gen title (barring the conversation about mid-life refresh version Switch to prolong it's life which is a different conversation).
@Wesjedker I know, but I was talking about the poll results.
@Devlind I guess Retro's name gave people hope to cling on and the fact that Nintendo even made a video dedicated to this announcement/update just shows that they care.
@DayOfLavos Well, they has been rumblings about Retro's management and morale being sub par at best so that might have been a reason.
@WOLF13 Metroid’s sales number are oft neglected, especially on ign
Can't really say I'm surprised or disappointed. Honestly, I never believed Metroid Prime 4 would be a 2019 title, even without a troubled development cycle. As long as they get it right, I can wait another 3 years or so.
@electrolite77 I hope so.
And because I never played a Metroid Prime game (I was in college at the time and too busy) and didn't pick up the trilogy on Wii, I am so looking forward to a trilogy port. A must have this year!
As I said in the initial news post, I'm definitely happy about this. Retro Studios' involvement means only great things for Metroid Prime 4. Of course, now I'm looking forward to the game even more, so it's going to be a very long 2-3 year wait.
@Devlind Good point, the development of Tropical Freeze took 4 years, longest gap between games (not counting whatever the heck they've been doing SINCE Tropical Freeze). So 2021 is possible but probably a little too optimistic.
@BradC40 Yes please! They can easily fill the void with a HD remake of Metroid Prime Trilogy. I'd be happy to buy it again.
Metroid is my all time favourite game franchise but it's rather scary to see how nintendo gets a pass on everything from fans. They had no business announcing a logo and now when they scrap the project you guys still applaud them. If this was Square or another publisher, all of you would be flaming.
FFS give them criticism when it's needed, that's how you better a company.
It's a great thing,if they had release an other disappointing Metroid game after Other M and Federation Force we would have been even more angry and messing up a Metroid Prime game would have been unexcusable,the Metroid Prime Trilogy is a masterpiece.
I think the whole restart from begining would mean we wont see it anytime soon, which is the hardest part to take.
There has been worse delays, I hope this doesn't fall into the same timeframe.
@Isaix I agree at some extent. Other M was exciting when they presented it, but disappointing once released. Federation Force was disappointing when they first presented it, but quite fun and enjoyable once you get your hands on it. Both were disappointing, yes, but for different reasons IMO.
@MrMetroid
Creative changes and delays happen all the time, in every industry. Should we be outraged (as if there isnt enough of that in the world)? Would you have us boycott Nintendo because they decided to shift directions and take more time to develop one of their main franchises?
They didn't rip anyone off, mislead, or outright lie (like recent EA and Bethesda controversies).
As for "Nintendo get a pass ON EVERYTHING from fans," I would encourage you to look at most threads on this site. Nintendo is routinely slayed here (and elsewhere) for their Online Service, lack of VC, etc., so not sure what universe you've been inhabiting.
The delay is fine so long as they port the Metroid Prime Trilogy and other games in the Metroid series over to Switch.
It was the release I was hoping for most this year. So this stinks.
Good they don't release it if not ready, and the honesty is really nice, but I can't help but feel Nintendo needs to have more development resources. They are fortunate, in a strange way, that Wii U did poorly and so many of us never played it because if we were just going by original Switch games they developed the game output would feel quite a bit more dry (and lets be honest, Nintendo will always depend on first party titles more than Sony or MS). They would probably be wise to buy Platinum games and other studios for example (most likely Japanese).
Did a bit of digging about this...
> Metroid Prime 4 was developed by multiple studios across the globe
> Development was smooth in some studios, while it was a dumpster fire in other studios
> Retro approached Nintendo with a demo that Nintendo really liked
So here we are now...
@Tsurii I assume you're talking about yourself, if you actually expect a game being redeveloped from scratch will be out anytime soon. That, or you also don't know what a hyperbole is.
@Mallow To be fair, its not as much this site as something like Reddit where it's circlejerk central.
Obviously I exaggerated "Nintendo gets a pass on everything" but to an extent it is true. Nintendo does not have basic social features such as achievements and you have fans actually say stuff along the lines of "Good I don't want achievements, thank you nintendo"
@purpleibby
there are literally 1,000 other Switch games
@DayOfLavos I know! Will we ever know what they were doing this whole time? Maybe they just finished a game for 2019 and are now free for Metroid?
Anyone else wish they showed us how bad Bandi Namco messed it up?
Maybe they should release a 2D Metroid for Switch in the meantime, or like an HD version of Samus Returns perhaps
I actually really appreciate their honesty over this. I'd rather they done this than release some half-hearted attempt for the sole purpose of a cash in on the Metroid name.
I'll wait guys, I'll wait.
Said this earlier but I’ll say it again-
It’s comforting they have faith in their property and Retro Studios and we will be receiving a potentially better game because of it. Heartbroken for the delay but elated for the new prospects of the game. Especially knowing Retro is behind it once again.
Honestly if they release it next year, I would be find only if the release the Train WiiU port.
BTW Metroid Prime Trilogy HD is done and was supposed to be announced last month (December 2018, presumably at the Game Awards).
Metroid Prime 4's reboot probably delayed that.
I JUST watched it. I had class. I gotta say, was I the only one that was disappointed when it was originally announced that Bandai Namco was developing this instead of Retro? Is ANYONE really surprised Bandai couldn't cut the mustard? Sigh... anyway, time o start the clock over again. I guess a refreshed Switch will launch before MP4☹ Gosh darn it all to heck😡
I'm always in favour of delaying a game to make sure it's good, instead of releasing rubbish.
All this has shown is that Nintendo actually respect their customers and want to produce quality in exchange for our hard-earned money.
Really honestly I’m concerned about Switch 2019. I like Animal Crosaing, bit it’s not a must for me. Pokemon doesn’t do it for me.
2019 seems quite barren foe me so far.
$^&# This!
They may as well rebrand Retro to "Prime Studios" cause clearly that's all what the community wants. Just chug out MP games.
Also, no MP5 was announced to satiate? Metroid is dead.
I'm glad. Metroid is the most important Nintendo IP to me. I'd rather wait for perfection then get a turd like BOTW & Odyssey...
wow how incompetent are they? they just spent 2 years and have nothing to show for it. was Sakamoto involved, that would explain a lot. clearly Nintendo doesnt know how to make Metroid, with the previous Sakamoto debacles, Federation Force and now this. Is the Metroid franchise about to become like the Fzero franchise?
First things first, it's quite telling how, at the time of this writing, the news article has twenty more comments than the actual Talking Point.
I predicted this drama bomb would prove to be divisive and I was, sadly, right. There's a "Nintendo dug up their own grave" camp and a "no, wait, better delayed than forever bad" camp, with little to no middle ground at all, barring the guys who, like me, wanted this project to be helmed by Retro Studios ever since its inception.
That said, however, regardless of whether I'm a Metroid fan or not, I can't really complain: for starters, I'm even more curious now to see what Nintendo will have in store for this upcoming E3. If anything, this makes a Mario Maker sequel/port even more of a necessity now, especially if it's an easy-to-develop port. I mean, new game drought, coupled with an actual reason for the Online Service thanks to a game with online as its backbone? Sounds like Builder Mario can't go to retirement as soon as Nintendo wants him to.
However, I can't shake off the feeling that Nintendo knew about this back in November: that colossal sale was suspiciously generous by Nintendo standards, and unprecedented in the sheer size of the library involved. It looked like Nintendo wanted us to expand our backlog, rather than giving us reassuring news for this upcoming year...
... and I guess you can tell, judging by today's recap, it worked for me. I'm still looking forward to more curveballs in the future, but as far as games for me to play are confirmed, my hands are pretty busy for the foreseeable future.
That said, I really appreciated how humbly they said "we bluntly admit we f#%ked up" to us. Admit it: other companies, should they have had a similar situation in their hands, would rather have swept the whole thing under the rug.
Of course, had they just asked Retro to do it from the get-go, we'd have the game by now - not to mention, this puts any possibility of an announcement concerning the mysterious Retro project back to square one. Maybe reverse-engineering the New Play Control treatment they gave to the Metroid Prime formula in the Corruption/Trilogy era to give us a Classic Play Control Metroid Prime Trilogy to ease our wait would be as good a good place to start as any.
@koekiemonster It's January!
Congrats Nintendo. For a second I was sad, now I'm grateful for assuring quality and for being honest. Thanks. Proud.
While it's sad that the game is getting deleyed, I think it is actually good. This shows that Nintendo actually cares about the quality of their products, unlike alot of companies. (Like seriously, I don't want metroid prime four to launch like bethesda launched fall out 76) It is also great that Retro-Studios is going to make the game, so in the end as sad as it may be now, it is honestly for the best.
@IHateTombs
It’s not good news, but it’s the best news possible in the circumstances. Far better than pushing out a bad game hat would kill the franchise. It’s teetering on the brink anyway. The next game needs to be good.
Let me guess. Yoshio Sakamoto doesn't know how to make a Metroid game, as proven by the horrible Metroid: Other M? Now reiterated by this scrapped game. I'm honestly not surprised at all
@purpleibby How the hell is a delay of one game equivalent to a bad console?
Stop being a dramatic ass, the Switch is a great portable system with a very large library of both released and upcoming games.
Stop trying to convince people to be disappointed just because these news didn't fit your schedule. Nintendo never announced a release date for MP4 and thus they didn't owe you anything. You bought the Switch on your own merit.
At this point I predict it will be a launch title for Nintendo’s next system.
@Retupmocnin Why does everyone hate that game? ;n;
Nintendo scrap games constantly and all the time. We just don’t hear about it because they usually wait until they’re much further along before they announce them
@avocadopear Judging by his Twitter feed, he was so distracted by T&A Samus all the time it's no wonder this went nowhere.
Retro isn't second party. They're 100% owned and managed by Nintendo. That's first party.
While delay is a slight passing disappointment, it's great news longer term. It gives us more to look forward to longer term.
Some particularly keen Metroid fans will seriously take this as a reason for living years longer to pay the game. Me, I'm just looking forward to an awesome game.
Perhaps we might see Metroid Prime 4 in 3D or VR!
I'm kinda glad that they made a disappointment news sooner for good reason.
Would you imagine what happen if this announcement was shown or still remain silent about Prime 4 on next E3 event?
So Retro are doing this now, what on earth have they been doing for the last 5 years? Will we ever know? 😂
Now Nintendo can focus on making an Advance Wars game while Retro makes the next Metroid game.
Disappointed sure but as a developer you know when what you have is garbage and sometimes you just have to start over. To tide us over release the Prime Trilogy on Switch for $19.99. Or even better an HD version for $39.99. That would keep me busy.
I’m gutted... I don’t want a poor game but a ‘few years’? I love my Switch but sounds like the next Metroid game could miss it altogether?
If delaying the game makes it better, then I'm all for it.
It's disappointing that they're essentially only starting now, but sounds like it would be for the best. Retro know how to make a Metroid Prime game, and I was always a little iffy about this being made in Japan.
I also don't think they made a mistake announcing it so soon. You need to give people a road map of the next couple of years to keep them excited about your console. I think Sony has absolutely nailed that with the PS4. There are only about 3-4 games out on Switch I want right now, but I'm excited about it because I know stuff like Fire Emblem and Pokemon is coming, Luigi's Mansion 3, Bayonetta 3, and of course Metroid Prime 4.
In 2017 Nintendo was a golden god that learnt from past mistakes. But by now it's clear we're back to business as usual, pre-2017. Mismanagement here is the issue all around.
@Claytonbob no way will they do less than 60.
Yeah im disappointed, but what can you do.
Would be a great time to release a HD Trilogy collection. Do it Nintendo...please!
As we have seen nothing of the supposed original development, I question if it actually existed, or if it did, how much resources were put into it before it was "scrapped".
I'd rather have to wait for a great game than get a mediocre one now. Nintendo obviously know it is just not good enough. I wish other companies had the same integrity. I'm thinking about Colonial Marines right now.
Strangely wasn’t surprised and I’m not worried or bothered about the big delay I know they are doing the right thing and it will be awesome when it comes.
@Lizuka
Donkey Kong Country fansite DK Vine would like you to know you're not alone. They used to have random rotating backgrounds including, occasionally, Samus flailing around in the water, or Samus' Gunship crashing in the background.
@TDOG
BoTW and Odyssey are two different beasts altogether, in that they belong to two very different genres. So I can assume one of them could be potentially, entirely unappealing to someone.
Comparing the both of them to fecal matter, on the other hand, is just plain lack of taste in games and art in general.
@Misfit410 Let’s be clear here: it was never confirmed that Bandai Namco was the developer behind Prime 4, only rumored.
@Medic_alert (bit off topic)
or in the case of Fzero, a finely tuned, polished and loved by Nintendo game and Nintendo only let Falcon out for smash
@Wak_mbpt I think we will definitely get the Prime Triolgy now
Gonna stick my neck out and say I don't think development of Metroid Prime 4 will take too long... I predict a Christmas 2020 release.
@Lionyone Oh man, wouldn’t that be a thing
@CharlieSmile What major first party's are coming out this year? Cause all I have seen is Some Wii U ports and yoshi doesn't really count as a major first title.
@electrolite77 To be fair, Samus Returns (3DS) was excellent. It just got bogged down in difficulty at the end.
@mowerdude Pokémon and Fire Emblem, if they’re on track; perhaps Animal Crossing
A great game delivered later is preferable to a poor game delivered sooner.
GIVE US AN F-ZERO!!!!!
@Radima They’re completely starting over development with a ‘new’ studio so it will take significantly longer than that if it’s going to reach AAA standards and any form of exploratory length
I've never played a Metroid game so this wasn't much of a letdown for me. I hope they drop a HD trilogy though so I can get into it before 4 comes out. Also my respect for Nintendo has gone up several notches for their transparency and openess. This probably the last thing they wanted to happen especially with that lofty hardware sales goal for this fiscal year.
@JudgeMethos It was never officially announced that Bandai Namco was involved, only rumored.
@westman98 Where’s your sources?
It is fine. I want a great game when it is ready, not a mediocre one quickly.
@Antraxx777
Imran Khan, a senior editor at Gameinformer.
@Antraxx777
Yeah true
Another plus-I now expect a Direct soon. They’ll have wanted to get this out of the way so nobody is disappointed when MP4 isn’t shown.
The one glimmer of hope from this is they could push for an MP Trilogy HD Switch version to be released in the next year or 2 to hold fans over and prep those who have never played the series. I'm not talkin a full fledged HD remake, just an up-res version, audio, gyro controls, etc for porting. Hell, I'll even take the Wii trilogy version being ported just to replay these games.
@UmbreonsPapa (Fallout 76)
@hcfwesker The incredible art direction still shines on the Prime games, so actually a 2-year window to remaster them fully in HD (with HD textures and models) is completely plausible. But I too would just take a simple uprez if the Wii trilogy
I for one am super happy. I always felt Nintendo need to to have Retro Studios work on it from day one. Now that's happening.
So at Retro studios pace it's a 4-5year wait!
Nintendo getting all quality control now!
After years of trash like;
Starfox zero
Hey pikmin
Federation force
Colour splash
Lazy mario party's ......
As the man Miyamoto once said "A delayed game is eventually good, but a rushed game is forever bad."
And I got a big backlog so no hurry.
'How is MP4 progressing'
Reggie 'really well it's looking great'
All lies......reggie your all lies!
I saw a shocking video headline as if the game was cancelled.
I’m sad no Metroid this year, but I’d much rather have a great Metroid Prime 4 from Retro Studios than a sucky one that isn’t.
Remember Metroid: Other M? Or Federation Force? Or Hunters?
3D Metroid hasn’t worked well except in Retro’s capable hands.
Let’s be happy for a great game coming.
Hopefully Nintendo can get us an HD-2D remake of Super or Fusion between now and then.
As a ultra Metroid fan, I am dissapoint... But happy!
Glad Retro Studios is back but I'm worried about the fact is this game even coming to Switch??? Could it come to Nintys next console if it's 2+ years away... They had better give us Metroid Prime Trilogy for Switch this year lol
Honestly, I'm a little disappointed, but I think that this is for the best. Either we could get a terrible game, or we could get something really great. I'm glad Nintendo decided to turn to Retro Studios to bring the game to their quality standards.
Hopefully, we'll get a Switch port of an existing Metroid game (Prime Trilogy?) to tide us over until Prime 4 releases.
Some of the melodrama here is eye-roll worthy.
It's a bummer that the game has been delayed, but if it was so bad that they felt the need to throw everything out and start over from scratch I'd rather wait.
Also, as much as I love Metroid, the Switch was never going to sink or swim based on a Metroid game. The series has never exactly been a major seller compared to other major Nintendo franchises(especially in Nintendo's home country).
The Switch is not "dead".
It's fine. Now I'm looking forward to the Unseen64 piece on "the original version".
Nintegrity.
Nintendo as a whole is obviously not perfect, but this is another example of why they're probably the best video game makers in the business. Certain other big companies would have just cancelled it outright, laid off the dev team for good measure and then start churning out yearly Mario Kart sequels and loot boxes for Splatoon and Animal Crossing.
@MrMetroid To be fair, it’s not like Nintendo promised us a 2019 release date. They promised us a new Metroid Prime game and that was it. As far as we know, we’re still getting one
I also can’t speak to how other companies are treated in comparison to Nintendo. I will say this. Nintendo was in a no win situation. If they didn’t acknowledge Prime 4 was coming, they would have been raked over the coals for that.
I'm glad that most people are having a level headed approach to this. Of course you'll always have the folks that'll act like the Switch sucks now that one game got delayed, but it's nice to know that hyperbole nonsense is not the norm here.
It sucks that we'll have to wait longer, but patience is a virtue. Nintendo wasn't satisfied, but are now putting the project in capable hands. They realize that after Other M, FF and the hiatus that the series went on during most of the 3DS/Wii U era, that they really should put out a high quality Metroid title.
They have changed to use unreal engine 4
Consolation Switch exclusive 2D Metroid while we wait? Please?
Retro has been great and reliable but I hope they are planning on bringing some original team members back or something. It’s just a different company now.
This is a mature move by Nintendo forecasting the kind of backlash of not showing Metroid in the next Direct.
@Mailman better put extra seasoning on your hat.
@aaronsullivan Retro still has original members, just not the "senior staff". All the people doing the behind the scenes programming and planning and all that will be mostly the same
@NintyNate In 2 years, the Switch will be 3 years old. Most Nintendo systems last a minimum of 5 years. I doubt we have to worry about it moving systems
Well, Pikmin 4 is going to be great then!
I wish we could see har far they got, I imagine that would be so interesting.
@smashboy2000 I completely agree that Retro is now available that means their game is done. This is pure conjecture, but here is what I feel might have happened.
Retro was working on this game that is now finished. They were not available when Nintendo thought they needed to get news out for E3 2017. Nintendo wanted to maintain momentum so they mocked up a logo, and they announced it.
The further you get into how this was being developed the weirder for Nintendo this seems. It sounds like a disaster on paper. I can’t imagine how this got off the ground. Of course, I guess it didn’t.
@ALinkttPresent maybe but we don't know what's going on eh ... MP4 could have like a 2023 release or something
I am not a Metroid fan. However, I think any delay is great if it means a high quality product. Good on Nintendo for making the right call.
@brunojenso not sure its essential at all now, why try to hype up a series when the next game is now 4-5 years away?
Do good retro
I can wait if delay = great things
@shgamer .........You have a cynical but not inaccurate point. There has just been so much mismanagement and so many failed projects and that has decimated many good development teams. There used to be a fairer (in terms of control and profits) balance between devs and publishers but the pendulum swung to the publishers and now too many decisions about game creation and direction are not made by the creative devs, but instead but the profit minded pubs. Its why so many good devs/directors have gone indy which is great because they have more freedom but not so great because less budget.
I am a huge fan of legacy gaming, but honestly I just think too much energy and focus is being put on that (industry wide) because its easier money and less risk. Really when you look at previous generations output of quality games this generation is just lacking. We had three awesome ME games last generation and one meh one this, we had multiple great rockstar games (as you noted) and now get our first developed for this generation 5 years in with RDR2 (it is a thing of wonder). Bethesda has been repacking Skyrim for 8 years now. No new Dragon Age since Inquisition which was not as good as 1/2. So yeah things have taken a nose dive, even though hardware unit sales have stayed high.
As for N, well I know a delay doesn't mean a good game, but their track record is a bit different than everyone else. They have a long history of delaying their top IPs and then delivering genre defining content. I think MPrime4 problem was more likely about style and content. The Prime games had a certain flavor because of their western developed influence. They were likely not 'capturing' that with the Jap internal team. I doubt it was technical issues in that they likely developed a nice engine already (and maybe the project will inherit that despite what they said). I think it was more likely the game just wasn't looking/feeling like previous efforts. Its hard to remember many major property that N has really screwed up ever, but other M comes to mind and I am sure they remember it as well. It was not a bad game at all, it just was a bad Metroid game and thats why it was a market and critical failure. MP4 was likely not 2019 anyways, so maybe now we see it in 2021.
19 looks awesome, I want FE so bad I can hardly wait for just a date announcement. Truly Nintendo has a lot announced right now so if most of whats known comes this year its going to be banner. Truly I would love to see them make a racing game that isn't MK. Everyone in the world wants a new Fzero, but once upon a time Waverace was the best game of its sort and Excitebike64 and Excitetruck were great as well. My main frustration has been with what IPs that choose to work, but I feel they are listening to fans more and bringing game like MP4, and AC after years of dormancy.
So happy about this - bless Nintendo for accepting nothing but the best!
@ValhallaOutcast I don't believe it will take that long. I think there will be a VERY focused team on this now – 3 years absolute tops.
I am angry that Retro studios will lose time on Meteoid. They should really focus on Donkey Kong
What people really don't consider is this: Since 2014, Retro was developing something, and then the "new game" it's a port from DKC:TF. I don't believe they spent 4 years making a port of their latest game: My theory is that they wasted 4 years, cancelled their project, offered Nintendo a quick port of TF, which thankfully sold better than it did on Wii U, this bought them some time to "look" for another project, and then Kensuke Tanabe appears and saves the day, and saves Retro, literally. This puts a huge weight on their shoulders, this has to be the best game on the series.
Looks like delay is the only thing nintendo fans want
While the restart is ultimately very disappointing, I believe Nintendo when they say they didn’t like what they were seeing. Unfortunately they felt the need to show a prime 4 logo after Federation Force was such a disaster commercially and financially, to try and instill some good-will again with the fan base.
But ultimately, this is why you never just show a logo at the very beginning of development. But it is what it is, it’s just how things turned out this time. The prime games have been on hiatus so long, this one has got to be done right if the series is to continue. I just hope the new Retro can live up to the old Retro. I’m sure most of the old guard is gone at this point. Best of luck to Retro, I’m sure they’re quite capable and have lots of talent at their disposal.
I don't give a toss.
We hadn't seen anything, a release date hadn't been promised, and we didnt even know who was making it. It was still just a fanservice reveal for the time.
I don't worry to wait, but why not a remake of Metroid: samus returns for switch! =D
@JackEatsSparrows
Wait, does the acronym mean what I think it means?
@AlexSora89 yup. Boobies and Booties
Prior to it being rebooted, Nintendo apparently pushed for Metroid Prime 4 to be a major title and increased the scope + budget of the game in accordance with what one would expect from an AAA game.
Seems like Nintendo was and still is taking Prime 4 very seriously, which is surprising given the mostly "meh" commercial performance of past Metroid games. I guess they are relying solely on the franchise's immense legacy and positive word-of-mouth to carry the series forward.
I don't care. I'm not fond of FPS games and I didn't like Metroid Prime 3 at all. I also don't like Retro's games.
But I hope the fans will enjoy playing it when it does come out.
@sketchturner happy birthday
@westman98 "Build it and they will come". Nintendo's policy has always been to make very good games and then even if not a lot of people buy them, it improves their company image.
I am devastated. But oh well...
@ALinkttPresent How sure are you about this? Also, it sounds like all the key decision makers are gone, so I'm still concerned.
My dream scenario is that Rare has been working on the Trilogy remaster for Switch and did such an amazing job, that Nintendo decided to give it to them and the new blood at Retro is capable and excited to give it a go.
Just don't know it.
@JackEatsSparrows
So I take it the mastermind behind Other M is into Samus a bit too much?
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