Prepare to once again brave the chilling, irradiated wastes and claustrophobic tunnels of post-apocalyptic Russia, as 4A Games has officially announced Metro 2039. The long-anticipated next chapter in the acclaimed Metro saga has been confirmed, with developer 4A Games and publisher Deep Silver partnering with Xbox to deliver the world's first look at the game later this week.
Following earlier leaks that correctly predicted its existence, Metro 2039 will receive its full unveiling during a dedicated Xbox First Look stream this Thursday, April 16th. Fans eager for a glimpse into the next iteration of the grim survival-horror series should mark their calendars for 6 PM UK time (that's 10 AM PST / 1 PM EST).
The partnership underscores a long-standing relationship, as an official post on Xbox News Wire noted, "Xbox has always been a home for the franchise, and we’re honored to continue that relationship by bringing you a first look at this next exciting chapter." As of now, 4A Games and Deep Silver have remained tight-lipped on any specific story or gameplay details, leaving the community buzzing with speculation ahead of the event.
The Metro series first captivated players in 2010 with Metro 2033, lauded for its atmospheric storytelling and brutal survival mechanics. This was followed by the equally well-received Metro: Last Light in 2013, and the expansive Metro Exodus in 2019. Exodus notably broke new ground, transitioning from the series' signature subterranean confines to a vast, semi-open-world surface journey across a ruined Russia. Our review at the time praised it as "an atmospheric, characterful voyage across a ruined Russia," proving that the Metro formula could thrive above ground.
Development on a new Metro title was first confirmed by 4A Games in November 2020, meaning Metro 2039 has been brewing for nearly six years. This extended development cycle hints at the potential for significant innovation and refinement, possibly pushing the series further in terms of mechanics or narrative scope, much like Exodus did by evolving the setting.
Rooted in Dmitry Glukhovsky's acclaimed series of novels – the last of which was Metro 2035 published in 2015 – it remains to be seen whether Metro 2039, as the fourth mainline entry, will adhere closely to existing lore or forge an entirely original narrative path, further distancing itself from its literary foundations.
All eyes will be on Xbox's broadcast this Thursday as the gaming world awaits the first official glimpse of what challenges await in Metro 2039. Stay tuned for our full coverage following the reveal!
