4A Games and Deep Silver have pulled back the curtain on the next mainline entry in the post-apocalyptic shooter franchise, confirming that Metro 2039 is currently in development. Following a brief period of speculation fueled by recent social media leaks, the developers officially verified the project’s existence today, marking the first major update for the series since the release of Metro Exodus and its subsequent expansions.
The full gameplay reveal is scheduled to take place during an Xbox First Look event on Thursday, April 16, at 10am PT. According to the early details provided by the studio, the title is being positioned as a direct “next chapter” for the franchise. While the previous game saw players venturing across the Russian wilderness on a locomotive, the official description for the upcoming showcase suggests a return to the series’ roots, inviting players to “journey into the dark heart of post-apocalyptic Moscow” for a conflict centered on the soul of the underground tunnels.
This shift back to Moscow raises significant questions regarding the narrative direction and the role of long-time protagonist Artyom. Metro Exodus offered multiple branching paths, and while a return to the capital was hinted at in certain story beats, it remains unclear if players will be stepping back into Artyom’s boots or if a new survivor will take the lead. Regardless of the lead character, the developer has confirmed that Metro 2039 will support the Xbox Play Anywhere initiative, ensuring cross-buy and cross-save functionality between console and PC.
The announcement comes at a busy time for the IP, following the launch of the VR-focused spinoff Metro Awakening late last year. Fans of the series have long awaited a return to the high-fidelity, atmospheric survival-horror elements that 4A Games is known for. With the April 16 showcase just days away, the community won’t have to wait long to see how the 4A Engine has evolved to handle the claustrophobic environments and mutant-infested ruins of a destroyed Moscow.
