Metro 2039, the latest entry from Ukrainian developer FourA Games, appears to be a deliberate return to the series' foundational elements, blending the claustrophobic tunnel exploration of Metro 2033 and Metro Last Light with select innovations from Metro Exodus. This hybrid approach aims to satisfy fans of the franchise's early installments while retaining some of the more open-ended design choices introduced in its predecessor.
The game casts players as a new protagonist, referred to as the Stranger, whose journey begins in Sevastopolskaya, an underground settlement rendered with the series' signature detailed and atmospheric environmental design. The surface world remains a desolate and dangerous place, filled with irradiated hazards and the ever-present dread evoked by ambient sound design, from whistling winds to the persistent Geiger counter.
While the core stealth and shooting mechanics are present, the preview suggests a degree of refinement in the gunplay, enhanced by impactful audio design. A new compressed air rifle stands out as a versatile addition to the arsenal, capable of silent takedowns and effective against mutant threats. However, much of the combat encountered in the demo reportedly echoes the corridor-based engagements found in Last Light, which, while functional, may not offer significant novelty.
One notable departure from the established combat loop occurred during a hallucinatory horror sequence set in an abandoned school. This segment prioritized puzzle-solving and psychological terror over action, a design choice the developers intend to explore further in the full game, aligning with the Stranger's more troubled psyche. The effectiveness of this particular scare, however, was found wanting, relying on common horror tropes.
Despite the linearity of some sections, Metro 2039 retains elements of Metro Exodus's level design, allowing for optional exploration. The surface demo featured a section of shattered Moscow that functioned as a miniature hub, offering side paths for foraging and discovery. It was revealed that the haunted school sequence and encounters with the light-sensitive, humanoid mutants known as Humanimals were entirely optional, providing opportunities for tense stealth gameplay and resource gathering.
Crafting and resource management remain central to the experience, with materials salvaged from the environment being crucial for survival. The preview highlights a scarcity of resources, particularly gas mask filters, forcing players into difficult decisions between replenishing vital supplies or acquiring ammunition. This system, while not entirely new, effectively stretches player resources and increases the stakes of exploration.
Beyond its grim atmosphere and survival mechanics, Metro 2039 also appears poised to address contemporary themes. Hints of political commentary, drawing inspiration from the Metro novel series' historical allegories and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, suggest the game may offer a more direct engagement with current geopolitical events than previous entries. This potential for a politically relevant narrative sets Metro 2039 apart, even if its core gameplay loop leans on established series conventions. The developers at FourA Games are embracing the series' roots, creating an experience that, while familiar, carries the weight of its atmospheric setting and the potential for meaningful social commentary.