GoKawiilThe new game looks like an evolution of Metroid Dread. While it’s still a 2D game, it features 3D graphics, lots of cinematic action shots, parrying enemies, and Samus rolling around in Morph Ball form. What’s new for this game is that Samus also appears to somehow absorb energy from enemies to survive — Nintendo’s marketing copy for the game uses the line “eat or be eaten.” There are also many fearsome-looking foes, including some giant creatures and a group of futuristic, caped fighters that attack Samus with blades and spinning metal hats.
The Switch 2 is getting a 2D Metroid called Ravenous
Why This Matters
Nintendo is extending the 2D Metroid line onto Switch 2 with Ravenous, a follow-up in spirit to Metroid Dread that adds a new energy-absorption mechanic. It signals continued first-party support for the new console's library and shows Nintendo iterating on a series that has proven commercially viable in 2D form.
Key Takeaways
- Ravenous is a new 2D Metroid for Switch 2, building on Metroid Dread's formula with 3D graphics and cinematic action.
- A new survival mechanic has Samus absorbing energy from enemies, framed by Nintendo's "eat or be eaten" pitch.
- New enemy types, including giant creatures and caped blade-wielding fighters, suggest a combat-heavy design with parrying.
Worth a Look
Metroid Dread (Nintendo Switch) — If Ravenous looks like an evolution of Metroid Dread, there's no better warm-up than playing Dread itself. It's the 2D Samus adventure that introduced the slick parries, EMMI chases, and speedy Morph Ball traversal the new game builds on test and it plays on Switch 2 too.
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