Metro 2039: Release Window, Gameplay, Trailer, and More

The masters of post-apocalyptic first-person shooters, 4A Games, recently announced Metro 2039 – the latest and darkest entry in the fan-favorite franchise. Set in the frozen and irradiated ruins of Moscow, the upcoming title will add new characters, mutants, and even a Neo Nazi faction to the series’ lore. It also promises to be the “most shocking Metro adventure” yet, so the devs clearly aren’t pulling any punches. If you’re looking forward to the game, here’s everything we know about Metro 2039 so far.

Metro 2039 Release Window and Platforms

Metro 2039 will be released in Winter 2026. The devs haven’t committed to a strict release date just yet, but that window automatically makes it one of the biggest upcoming games of 2026. As for platforms, the title will be available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC (via Steam and the Epic Games Store).

It’s quite brave of 4A and Deep Silver to even think of releasing the game this Winter. Publishers, big and small, are keen on avoiding the Q4 slot to steer clear of GTA 6’s seismic launch. A Winter 2026 release could only mean November or December, and you’d imagine that consumer attention will be dominated by Rockstar’s title during both months.

Metro 2039 Price and Editions

Metro 2039’s pricing is yet to be confirmed, but the game will likely cost $69.99 for the base edition. As for editions, 4A will likely unveil three different versions – Base Edition, Gold Edition, and Collector’s Edition. Keep in mind that this is speculative for the time being, and we’ll be sure to update this section once new details are revealed.

Metro 2039 Story Details

Metro 2039 picks up six years after the events of Metro Exodus. Its events are set in a post-apocalyptic iteration of Russia that was devastated by nuclear bombs during World War II. All human survivors had to retreat into the dark and dingy metros, where they eventually established a civilization that mirrored the old world.

As showcased throughout the Metro trilogy, humanity quickly fell back to its primal instincts and formed factions with competing political ideologies. This led to war, of course, and in Metro 2039, we’ll learn about the winning faction – the Novoreich regime.

The name paints a pretty clear picture. The Novoreich is a fascist order that has managed to unite the metro using propaganda and fear. Led by a former Spartan named Hunter, the faction aims to wage a war for the surface against a “dark and terrifying enemy.”

You’ll play as the franchise’s first voiced protagonist, known only as The Stranger. A recluse plagued by his violent nightmares, The Stranger is forced to undertake a harrowing journey back down to the Metro, which he once swore never to return to. We see glimpses of his past in the reveal trailer, as well as a potential link to the Dark Ones. These psychic beings appear to have taken control of the Stranger’s mind, and they will undoubtedly play a central role in the story.

Metro 2039 Gameplay Details

Just like its predecessors and the STALKER games, Metro 2039 is a first-person, survival horror shooter. Both the surface world and the metro are cruel and miserable places where resources are scarce. This is reflected in the gameplay, as you’ll have extremely limited ammo, crafting resources, and medical syringes. You’ll have to manage all three resources carefully, while also keeping track of your radiation levels and ensuring your flashlight is always charged.

We’re happy to report that the diegetic UI of Metro Exodus returns in Metro 2039. Instead of having bars or meters on screen, all essential information is communicated through in-game elements such as the Stranger’s watch or the Geiger counter taped to his wrist. Familiar weapons from the franchise are also set to return, including the classic Kalash, the ramshackle Shambler, and an SMG that looks a lot like the Bastard.

Lastly, the game is confirmed to feature new enemy types, but there’s no info on the kinds of atrocities that we can look forward to seeing. With that being said, the trailer did confirm that Nosalises (mutated moles) will return.

Metro 2039 Trailer

The only Metro 2039 trailer released thus far is the six-minute reveal trailer. It is largely packed with cinematics that give us a glimpse at the Stranger and his mental turmoil, as well as a look at the Novoreich and the good ol’ metro. There’s also an Xbox First Look episode dedicated to Metro 2039, which doesn’t feature any new footage but offers insights from the devs.

And that covers everything you need to know about Metro 2039 so far. We’ll be updating this article regularly, so be sure to revisit. Also, let us know if you’re excited for the game in the comments.