A new rumor suggests that developer Retro Studios will begin development on Metroid Prime 5 shortly after the release of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, offering a glimpse into what may be next for the acclaimed sci-fi franchise. Though Metroid Prime 4 has yet to hit shelves, this insider leak has already sparked excitement among long-time fans of the Metroid series.
A Legendary Legacy
The Metroid series began in 1986 under Nintendo, following the journey of bounty hunter Samus Aran as she defends the galaxy against threats like the Space Pirates and Metroids. With eleven mainline entries and numerous spin-offs—including Metroid Prime Pinball and Metroid Dread—the franchise has cemented its place as a pillar of the action-adventure genre.
The upcoming Metroid Prime 4: Beyond marks the twelfth main entry and was officially revealed during E3 2017. The game will feature Samus wielding psychic abilities on the mysterious planet Viewros, and will pit her against the returning rival bounty hunter, Sylux. Scheduled for a general 2025 release, Prime 4 will launch on both the Nintendo Switch and the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2.
Insider Leak Sparks Prime 5 Buzz
Gaming insider Reece “Kiwi Talkz” Reilly recently commented on X (formerly Twitter), downplaying Retro Studios’ involvement with the Donkey Kong IP by labeling any expectations as “copium.” Instead, Reilly claimed that Retro Studios will transition directly into developing Metroid Prime 5 once work on Prime 4 is complete.
“I am not saying they are going to become the Metroid Prime studio,” Reilly clarified, hinting that Retro may eventually pivot to a different franchise due to possible franchise fatigue.
Interestingly, Metroid Prime 5 was already rumored earlier this year, when another leaker claimed that the game was in pre-production and could potentially become one of the early flagship titles for the Nintendo Switch 2.
What This Could Mean for the Franchise
If this rumor holds true, it indicates Nintendo’s renewed long-term investment in the Metroid brand. The shift toward multiple Prime titles could mark a new golden era for the series, especially as Nintendo prepares to roll out its next-gen hardware.
However, not all fans are on board with the idea of Retro being typecast as the “Metroid studio,” especially after their previous creative ventures like Donkey Kong Country Returns and Tropical Freeze. Still, a fifth Prime title could deliver more of the cerebral exploration and immersive sci-fi storytelling that fans crave.
While Nintendo has yet to confirm Metroid Prime 5, insider chatter and past leaks are fueling speculation that development may begin soon after Prime 4: Beyond is released. Whether it launches on the current Switch or the Switch 2, Samus Aran’s story appears far from over.
For now, fans should keep their eyes on Nintendo Directs and stay tuned for more official news. Until then, the galaxy waits.