Eighteen years of silence, a complete development restart, and soaring fan expectations culminate today with the global release of 'Metroid Prime 4: Beyond'. The game lands as a major exclusive for both the original Nintendo Switch and the newly launched Nintendo Switch 2, marking a pivotal moment for the Japanese gaming giant.

For Kenyan gamers, this launch isn't just about a new title; it's a significant investment. The game itself is priced at $59.99 (approx. KES 7,760) for the Switch and $69.99 (approx. KES 9,050) for the enhanced Switch 2 version. Accessing it requires a console, with the new Nintendo Switch 2 retailing locally for between KES 63,000 and KES 72,000. This price point places it in direct competition with other high-end entertainment, forcing families to weigh its value carefully.

A Troubled Path to Launch

The road to today has been anything but smooth. Nintendo first announced 'Metroid Prime 4' way back in 2017. However, in a rare public admission of trouble, the company announced in 2019 that development was not meeting standards and was being completely rebooted, with the original series developer, Retro Studios, taking control. This reset, while welcomed by fans for its commitment to quality, created a long and anxious wait.

The final game transports players to the alien planet of Viewros, where bounty hunter Samus Aran must battle her rival, Sylux, and uncover the secrets of a lost civilization. New features for the series include:

• Psychic abilities for puzzle-solving and combat.
• A drivable motorcycle, the 'Vi-O-La', for traversing large environments.
• For Switch 2 players, enhanced graphics and the option to use a Joy-Con controller like a mouse for more precise aiming.

Early Reviews Are Divided

Initial critical reception for 'Beyond' is mixed, reflecting its complex development. Some reviewers have hailed it as a "masterclass in game design" and a "sci-fi masterpiece," praising its immersive exploration and stunning visuals on the Switch 2. They note that the game successfully recaptures the series' signature atmosphere of isolation and mystery.

However, other critics have pointed to a disjointed experience, alleging the game feels "cobbled together" due to its turbulent creation. These reviews suggest that new features, like the open-world elements and psychic powers, feel underutilized and that the game struggles to establish a cohesive identity, caught between its classic roots and modern gaming trends.

For now, as 'Metroid Prime 4: Beyond' enters the hands of players, its ultimate success remains to be seen. The question is whether the final product justifies not only its hefty price tag for Kenyan consumers but also its long, eighteen-year journey to their screens.