Samus Aran finds herself suddenly as prey in Metroid Ravenous, coming exclusively to Nintendo Switch 2 starting January 28, 2027. Developed by MercurySteam in collaboration with Nintendo EPD and published by Nintendo, this 2D Metroidvania action-adventure game was unveiled at the Nintendo Direct on September 9, 2026. The trailer drops the heroine on an unknown moon, where an ambush forces her to explore an underground world and pick up new abilities to climb back to the surface.
The first trailer alternates between narrative sequences and side-scrolling gameplay. It shows Samus navigating underground facilities, taking on a variety of creatures with her beam and missiles, then draining energy from her foes after immobilizing them.
The video also spotlights five assassins described by Nintendo as space ninjas. These foes lurk for the bounty hunter in several corners of the labyrinth, promising standalone showdowns that hinge on close-quarters fighting and timing counters. Big, hulking creatures also show up among the bosses you’ll face.
The synopsis released by Nintendo opens with: "After the crash of her ship on a moon, Samus Aran falls into an ambush staged by a mysterious group of assassins". Wounded badly in the assault, the bounty hunter finds herself in an unfamiliar underground realm. She will need to gain new abilities and find a route back to the surface.
The progression will follow the classic Metroidvania blueprint, with an interconnected world of corridors, abilities to acquire, and several obstacles that gate access to certain areas. Samus will retain part of her arsenal, including her beams, missiles, and the Morph Ball—visible in the trailer.
The main new feature unveiled centers on her Metroid-related abilities. Samus will be able to counter certain attacks to stun a target, then quickly drain its energy to restore her strength. This mechanic will be used both against ordinary foes and in encounters with the five assassins.
Nintendo confirms a solo-only adventure. The full map layout, the number of abilities on offer, and the exact progression mechanics have not yet been detailed.
Two physical editions have been announced. The Standard Edition will include the game, while the Special Edition bundles a physical copy, a SteelBook case, and a Samus Amiibo in her Metroid suit. Pre-orders have been open since the game's reveal.
Two other amiibo from the collection will accompany the launch: Samus and a Chozo statue, the latter being larger than a typical amiibo figure. Nintendo will announce details on their in-game functionality later.
The technical sheet notes French-language text, compatibility with TV, tabletop, and handheld modes, and an estimated 20.2 GB of storage for the digital version. The title is PEGI 12-rated.
The layout of the subterranean world, the extent of Samus's new abilities, and the impact of amiibo remain to be clarified. Future presentations will offer a closer look at the choices shaping the series' evolution in its 2D form.
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