In an era where remakes are the norm, Nintendo’s handling of some classics is frustrating gamers. Many disappointments center around Metroid Prime and The Legend of Zelda titles that have yet to appear on the Switch. Unfortunately, NateTheHate has bad news for fans of Metroid Prime 2, Metroid Prime 3, The Wind Waker, and Twilight Princess. The insider, who has predicted Nintendo developments, believes emulated versions for Nintendo Switch Online are more likely.
The lack of imminent Metroid Prime Switch or Switch 2 releases is especially puzzling. Metroid Prime Remastered appeared in 2023, modernizing the inaugural entry in the popular series. With Metroid Prime 4: Beyond scheduled for later in 2025, it would seem logical to expect remakes of its predecessors. Contradicting earlier reports, NateTheHate and journalist Jeff Grubb think Nintendo has changed its plans.
Intentions to expand the Nintendo Switch Online subscription service could explain the delays. The network offers titles dating back to the original NES. Typically, players download these games before they run with official emulators. The hope is that NSO evolves to include GameCube titles Metroid Prime 2: Echoes, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, and Twilight Princess. Metroid Prime 3: Corruption is a Wii-era game, which complicates matters.
Nintendo relying more on NSO would make sense, considering the rising popularity of digital gaming. An FCC filing for a potential Switch 2 GameCube controller also suggests a greater emphasis on the retro console. Still, for some gamers, Nintendo Switch Online isn’t the ideal place to revisit Metroid Prime or The Legend of Zelda favorites. The Switch 2 could arrive within months, boasting more horsepower and upscaling abilities. Even if Zelda or Metroid Prime remastered versions are costly, players could benefit from improved visuals.
Metroid Prime and Zelda fans should at least monitor the April 2nd Switch 2 Direct for developments. Even without remasters, gamers could hear about a growing Nintendo Switch Online library.
I became interested in technology at a young age and enjoyed discovering the latest innovations. While earning college degrees in publishing, I created several PC hardware and gaming websites. My passion has always been to guide readers on what products can truly improve their lives. After many years as a Tech Writer for Game Rant, I’m anxious to share my knowledge with a new audience at Notebookcheck.
