At the Xbox Showcase, Metro 2039 was finally unveiled as the fourth main installment in the legendary shooter series. The trailer already showcases the game’s dark atmosphere and announces a return to the dark tunnels of the Moscow underground.
What was revealed?
The developers at 4A Games promise a handcrafted single-player campaign with a focus on story, monsters, a claustrophobic atmosphere, and horror and survival elements—exactly what most fans of the series would want!
In the short gameplay sequence at the end of the video, the typical equipment from the Metro games can also be seen—including the wristband with a timer for the gas mask filter.
What is Metro 2039 about?
In Metro 2039, the factions of the Metro are united under a new banner, the Novoreich—a brutal and tyrannical dictatorship that consolidates its power through violence and propaganda. The Novoreich is led by Hunter, a well-known ex-Ranger from Metro 2033.
Since the Ukrainian developers behind Metro 2039 are directly affected by the brutal Russian invasion, they have deliberately addressed themes related to war and incorporated them into the game’s plot. As a result, the game is set to be the “darkest” installment in the series to date.
Will Artyom return?
Artyom does not return as the protagonist. This leaves it open to interpretation as to which ending of Metro Exodus is official canon. Instead, we take on the role of a nameless (but this time fully voiced) fighter named “The Stranger,” who had retreated into exile in the wilderness. When demonic dreams begin to plague him, he must return to the Metro.
It therefore stands to reason that Metro 2039 will once again move away from the sprawling surface levels of its predecessor and be set primarily within the confined tunnel system. The release is planned for winter 2026 on PC (via Steam and Epic), PS5, and Xbox Series consoles.