4A Games has revealed Metro 2039, the next entry in the post-apocalyptic shooter series based on the novels from Dmitry Glukhovsky.
In Metro 2039, players will step into the boots of The Stranger, who’s forced to undertake a journey back into Moscow’s Metro. In a change from previous Metro games, The Stranger will be a fully voiced protagonist, which 4A Games says will enhance the game’s immersion and storytelling.
“For a quarter century, the last survivors of nuclear war have been locked in bitter conflict deep in the Metro tunnels beneath the poisoned city of Moscow,” a description for the game reads. “Now, the underground factions are unified under one banner – the Novoreich, led by a new Fuhrer: the legendary Spartan, Hunter.”
“You play as The Stranger, a recluse haunted by violent waking nightmares, forced to undertake a harrowing journey back down to the Metro, a place he swore he would never return to.”
Here’s the official reveal trailer for the game:
4A Games says that the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has had a significant impact on how the Ukrainian studio has chosen to tell the game’s story.
“The full-scale russian invasion of Ukraine has also shaped how we want to tell the story of this game,” the developer said. “Our games explore what humans were before the world ended, what they became after, and what they are willing to do to live another day. The meaning has always been about preventing war. But now war is our reality.”
“The world has grown even darker, crueler, more unjust, and more ruthless – not only in real life, but in the world of Metro as well.
As a result, our message has shifted to be about the consequences; The Cost of Silence, The Horrors of Tyranny, and the Price of Freedom.”
“We are incredibly proud of the journey our team has been through – long, difficult, and at times truly exhausting. We can’t wait to tell you our new story – dark, brutal, and unforgettable.”
“To our fellow Metro community, our friends, our family, thank you. For the patience. For all the support and love we have seen in your messages, content, and replies.”
Metro 2039 is coming to Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5 and PC later this year, although no specific release date has been confirmed.