The Stranger
Deep Silver and Universal Studios Hollywood Hub have revealed the cinematic trailer for Metro 2039, the fourth installment in the post-apocalyptic series. Set in 2039, six years after the events of its predecessor, players will assume the role of a new protagonist known as 'The Stranger'. This character is distinct from Artyom, the long-time hero, featuring grey hair and aged skin. He wields recognizable equipment, including a helmet adorned with the 'M' logo of the Spartans, a modified Shambler shotgun, and a multi-function watch that includes a compass and Geiger counter, humorously set to 20:39.
Führer Hunter and The Novoreich
The trailer introduces a new faction called 'The Novoreich', led by the enigmatic Führer Hunter. Hunter, who has been absent since the first Metro game, returns with a sinister agenda. His troops, wearing grey uniforms, are seen rounding up children, a harrowing scene that echoes real-world atrocities, with notable visual references to the Shoes on the Danube Bank Holocaust memorial. This indicates a thematic depth that explores the horror of totalitarian regimes and indoctrination.
The Lost Children
In a chilling sequence, children are shown chained together, forced onto a train marked with the number 2039. They chant, 'The enemy must be destroyed,' showcasing the pervasive brainwashing under the Novoreich. One child, however, stands out, scribbling with crayons, hinting at innocence amidst the terror. This drawing becomes pivotal, as the trailer reveals its evolving nature through the Stranger's nightmares, illustrating the loss of innocence and the horrors inflicted by Hunter's regime.
The Dark Ones
The Dark Ones, pivotal to the Metro series, appear throughout the trailer, revealing their new design. These mutated beings possess psychic powers, allowing them to manipulate the Stranger's visions. Their presence serves as a reminder of humanity's past failures to communicate with them. The climactic moment in the trailer shows the Stranger mistakenly shooting the children he seeks to save, a tragic twist that leaves him in anguish, holding a dying child in his arms.
A Miserable Reality
As the nightmare concludes, the Stranger awakens to the grim reality of post-apocalyptic Moscow. The original crayon drawing remains in his pocket, suggesting a personal connection that complicates his journey. This raises questions about his motivations: is he searching for his own child, or confronting the past's horrors? The narrative hints at both personal and broader themes of loss and redemption.
The Playground
The trailer's imagery of a playground echoes themes from previous games, particularly the connection between children and the horrors of war. The Dark Ones' darker intentions suggest a shift from seeking peace to showcasing humanity's brutality. Given the events of Metro 2033, where Artyom launched an attack against the Dark Ones, their transformation into potential villains adds layers to the story's conflict.
New and Returning Weapons
The reveal also highlights new weaponry, including the Shambler shotgun and a new electric rifle. The trailer features various firearms, like the Kalash assault rifle, and points towards a blend of familiar and fresh combat experiences. Players can anticipate engaging with both innovative and classic weapon mechanics in this installment.
The Metro Mutants
The trailer concludes with glimpses of mutated creatures, including flying bat-like Demons and large mole-like mutants. These familiar threats hint at the return of beloved enemies from previous games while introducing new challenges for players to face. The setting, marked by destruction and chaos, reinforces the series' trademark atmosphere of dread.
Developer Easter Eggs
Subtle Easter eggs appear throughout the trailer, including drawings showcasing the logos of 4A Games and Deep Silver. Additionally, the old woman representing the Dark Ones features eyes that nod to the Ukrainian flag, a clever homage to the developer's roots. These details enrich the narrative, inviting players to uncover further layers of meaning.