New Rating Reveals Unannounced Metroid Game

The next Metroid game might be arriving sooner than many anticipated. A member of the Famiboards forum has uncovered what seems to be a leak from Brazil’s Ministry of Justice and Public Security, which handles game ratings, revealing the upcoming title: Metroid Ravenous.

If the rating information is correct, there are two major surprises: first, Nintendo is ramping up its focus on Metroid after years of minimal attention (with an 11-year gap between Metroid: Other M and Dread), and second, this new installment is reportedly set to launch in 2026. Brazilian journalist “Necro” Felipe Lima noted that the documents reference around 41 minutes of gameplay, and the game has a recommended age rating of 12 due to its violent content (weapons, blood, death) and some light sexual themes.

Given that Nintendo is set to release Metroid Prime 4: Beyond in 2025 after a lengthy development process, it seems likely that Ravenous will be another 2D entry rather than a 3D one. The title itself—Ravenous—suggests a possible connection to the horror elements of Metroid Dread, hinting at a direct sequel. The subtitle could refer to the parasitic Metroids, a new threat, or perhaps even to bounty hunter Samus Aran herself, especially considering the events of Dread. With nearly five years since Metroid Dread’s release, there’s certainly been ample time to develop a sequel.

In terms of the series ranking, where does this latest entry fit among the 15 games?

It’s important to mention that after working on Dread, MercurySteam faced controversy over a toxic workplace culture, with current and former employees alleging enforced 10-hour workdays and dismissals for taking planned time off. The studio recently laid off staff following the underperformance of its latest title, Blades of Fire.

The Ravenous leak comes amid ongoing rumors of a Super Metroid remake in development at Nintendo. The company has also announced a remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, scheduled for release this year. If Metroid Ravenous is indeed on track for 2026, Nintendo will need to juggle both titles in what is shaping up to be a crowded holiday season. The impending release of Grand Theft Auto 6 on November 19 has already made September and October one of the busiest months for gaming in years.

Nintendo has been contacted for comments regarding Metroid Ravenous, and updates will follow once a response is received.

Samus Aran’s backstory is definitely worth exploring.