Amazon has recently begun canceling pre-orders for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, reaching out to customers via email to inform them of the changes. This development has sparked concerns among fans about the game's future, but it's important to understand the implications and what this means for the anticipated 2025 release.
On January 11, 2025, reports surfaced on platforms like Reddit and Resetera about Amazon canceling pre-orders for Metroid Prime 4. Screenshots shared by users reveal that Amazon cited "a lack of availability" as the reason for the cancellations. Despite the disappointment, Amazon has assured affected customers that their reservation charges will be refunded within 1-2 business days.
The news has left some Metroid fans disheartened, especially those who pre-ordered the game following its announcement at E3 2017. However, it's crucial to note that this cancellation does not signal the game's cancellation; rather, it indicates that Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is currently unavailable for pre-order on Amazon.
For more detailed insights into Metroid Prime 4, be sure to check out our comprehensive article on the game!
Metroid Prime 4 was first unveiled during E3 2017, with Nintendo America's director of product marketing clarifying that Retro Studios, the developer behind previous Metroid titles, would not be involved initially. At that time, the identity of the developer working on this new installment remained undisclosed.
Two years later, in 2019, Nintendo announced a significant shift in the game's development. In a YouTube video, senior managing executive officer Shinya Takahashi revealed that development had been restarted under Retro Studios due to the project not meeting the expected standards for a Metroid Prime sequel.
Fast forward to June 2024, Nintendo showcased a full gameplay trailer during its Nintendo Direct, confirming the game's title as Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and setting its release for 2025. The trailer introduced the antagonist, Sylux, leading a group of Space Pirates in an unnamed facility.
In a reassuring move, Nintendo reaffirmed the 2025 release window for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond in a news post dated January 3, 2025. Despite Amazon's pre-order cancellation, this statement should ease fans' concerns about the game's release this year.
As the gaming community eagerly awaits the official announcement of the Switch 2, it remains to be seen whether Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will launch on the original Switch or its anticipated successor.