▶ Tap to play — it follows you as you read
Nintendo just pulled the curtain back on Metroid Ravenous, a brand-new entry in the Metroid series headed exclusively to Switch 2, and it’s set to launch on January 28, 2027. After years of fans wondering what’s next for Samus, this is the first real confirmation that the franchise is getting a fresh, full-scale outing built specifically for the new hardware.
What Happened
The announcement came out of nowhere, with Nintendo confirming both the game’s existence and a concrete release date in the same breath. That’s notable — plenty of big Nintendo reveals come with a vague “2027” window and nothing else, so locking in January 28, 2027 right away signals the game is further along in development than a typical teaser would suggest. Metroid Ravenous is being positioned as a Switch 2 system exclusive, which lines up with Nintendo’s pattern of using the Metroid series to show off what its newest console can actually do.
Why It Matters
The headline feature here is the new “Metroid absorption” mechanic, layered on top of the series’ classic exploration-and-upgrade formula. Metroid games have always been about isolation, atmosphere, and slowly unlocking new abilities as you explore a hostile world — if absorption lets Samus actually take on properties of the Metroids themselves, that’s a real twist on a formula that hasn’t fundamentally changed since the Prime and Dread eras. It’s the kind of mechanic that could reshape combat and traversal simultaneously, rather than just being a cosmetic gimmick bolted onto the same old gameplay loop.
What to Expect
Don’t expect a ton of concrete details yet — Nintendo’s reveal leaned more on the concept and the date than on gameplay specifics, screenshots, or a full trailer breakdown. Given how strong Metroid Dread’s reception was, expect Nintendo to drip-feed information over the coming months: a proper trailer showcasing the absorption mechanic in action, then probably a demo or gameplay deep dive closer to launch. My take: pairing a new mechanic with classic Metroid DNA is a smart way to hook longtime fans while still making the game feel like a genuine evolution, not just a re-skin.
FAQ
When does Metroid Ravenous release? Metroid Ravenous is scheduled to launch on January 28, 2027, exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2.
What is the Metroid absorption mechanic? It’s a new gameplay system that lets Samus absorb Metroids, adding a fresh layer on top of the series’ traditional exploration and ability-upgrade gameplay; Nintendo hasn’t detailed exactly how it works yet.
Is Metroid Ravenous a Switch 2 exclusive? Yes, based on Nintendo’s announcement, Metroid Ravenous is being developed specifically for Switch 2 with no other platforms mentioned.
🎁 Claim your FREE gift card codesLimited drops · takes 30 seconds →
