Nintendo has announced Metroid Ravenous, a new 2D entry in the series for Nintendo Switch 2. Launching on January 28, 2027, the game sends Samus Aran to an unknown moon and introduces a new gameplay system that allows her to use Metroid powers to drain energy from enemies.
A New 2D Metroid After Dread
Ravenous is positioned as the next major 2D Metroid adventure following Metroid Dread.
Nintendo's official announcement does not directly call the game "Dread 2," so it remains unclear exactly how much of the previous game's ending will carry into the new story.
The first trailer shows Samus' spacecraft crashing on an unknown moon before she is surrounded by five fast-moving Space Ninjas.
The game's labyrinth-like level design, backtracking with newly acquired abilities, and large boss encounters continue the core structure of the series.
Nintendo Switch 2 hardware is being used to deliver more detailed backgrounds, smoother animations, and denser particle effects.
Official resolution and frame-rate targets have not yet been announced.
Metroid Powers Are at the Center of the Gameplay
Samus' new "Ravenous" mechanic is based around consuming energy from enemies to restore her own resources.
In the trailer, the ability appears to connect combat, healing, and environmental interaction.
It is not yet clear whether the power can be used without limitations, whether it relies on a separate resource meter, or how it will be balanced during boss fights.
The new mechanic could also change the series' traditional energy-recovery loop.
If players are encouraged to regain health by fighting more aggressively, the chase-and-escape tension of Dread could shift toward a more offensive rhythm.
However, that interpretation is based only on early footage, and the final balance will become clearer through more extensive gameplay demonstrations.
The Developer Has Not Been Officially Confirmed
Metroid Dread was developed by MercurySteam, and the studio's reaction to the Ravenous announcement on social media has led to speculation that it may be involved again.
However, Nintendo has not yet named the developer of Ravenous on the official product page.
For that reason, MercurySteam should not currently be treated as the confirmed developer.
Standard and Special Editions
Nintendo has announced a Special Edition alongside the standard physical release.
The special package includes the game card, a SteelBook, and additional collectible items.
A new amiibo based on Samus' updated Metroid Suit design has also been revealed separately.
Package pricing and regional stock availability may vary by retailer.
Players placing preorders should check whether the amiibo is included in a particular package or sold separately.
What Should Players Wait to Learn Before Preordering?
Nintendo has not yet explained exactly what the new amiibo will unlock in the game.
Until it is confirmed whether the figure provides health recovery, cosmetics, additional missions, or another type of benefit, players should not assume that it offers meaningful gameplay advantages.
Limited Special Edition stock could also cause second-hand prices to rise significantly above the official retail price, so official stores and authorized retailers should be prioritized.
Separate resolution and frame-rate targets are also expected for handheld and docked modes.
For a fast-paced 2D action game, a stable frame rate may be more important than maximum resolution.
Accessibility options, difficulty settings, and full control remapping could also be important for players who found the intense chase sequences in Dread challenging.
Players should avoid drawing firm conclusions about the game's chronology from visual clues in the trailer alone.
If Nintendo announces bonuses for Metroid Dread save data, a recap of previous games, or guidance features for new players, those details should be listed separately on the official product page.
Collectors should also confirm whether the physical edition contains the entire game on the cartridge, the total file size, and whether a mandatory download is required.
Nintendo Account region settings may affect preorder bonuses as well.
Once the review embargo lifts, handheld-mode performance will be particularly important to examine.
What Does This Mean for Players?
Ravenous is shaping up to be one of the first major Switch 2 exclusives of 2027.
Players who enjoyed Dread may find a similar sense of speed and level design combined with more aggressive new mechanics.
However, because the developer, performance targets, and overall game length have not yet been revealed, players may want to wait for longer gameplay demonstrations before placing a preorder.
Itemgold Commentary
Samus draining energy directly from enemies is more than just a new visual effect. It has the potential to significantly change the game's risk-reward balance.
If Nintendo successfully integrates the mechanic into exploration and boss design, Ravenous could become more than simply a visual continuation of Dread.
Metroid Ravenous launches exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2 on January 28, 2027.
New Metroid powers and the Space Ninja threat have been revealed, while the developer, technical targets, and edition pricing remain important details to watch.
You can follow the Itemgold Blog for Metroid Ravenous preorder details, amiibo availability, and new gameplay information.
FAQ
When will Metroid Ravenous be released?
The game launches on January 28, 2027.
Is there a Nintendo Switch 1 version?
No. The game has only been announced for Nintendo Switch 2.
Is it a direct sequel to Metroid Dread?
It is the next 2D Metroid game after Dread, but Nintendo has not yet revealed the full story connection.
Is MercurySteam developing the game?
The developer has not officially been announced. Current speculation does not count as confirmation.
Is there a Special Edition?
Yes. Nintendo has announced a Special Edition as well as a new Samus amiibo.
