A document leaked from Brazil’s National Secretariat for Digital Rights has identified a previously unannounced game titled Metroid Ravenous. According to the regulatory filing, the title is published and distributed by Nintendo of America and carries a production year of 2026. While Nintendo has not confirmed the project, the filing suggests the title is aimed at players aged 12 and older.
What is the status of Metroid Ravenous?
The information originated from an accidental publication by Brazil’s Ministry of Justice, which oversees the regulation of digital products. The document lists Metroid Ravenous as a registered title for 2026. As of now, it remains unclear whether the game is scheduled for release before the end of the calendar year. The leak, which first gained traction via social media reports, positions the title as a Nintendo-backed project, though the company has maintained silence regarding its development roadmap beyond existing 2026 plans.
The Metroid series has a history of external partnerships. Metroid Dread, the most recent 2D entry, was developed in collaboration with Spanish studio MercurySteam, which also worked on Metroid: Samus Returns for the Nintendo 3DS.
Could this be the rumored 2D Metroid project?
Industry observers speculate that Metroid Ravenous may be the long-rumored 2D project reportedly in active development. If the title follows the gameplay style of Metroid Dread, it would align with Nintendo’s recent strategy of alternating between 3D Prime entries and 2D side-scrolling adventures. MercurySteam is frequently cited by fans and analysts as the most plausible developer for such a project, given their established technical proficiency with the franchise’s 2D engine.
When will Nintendo officially confirm the title?
Nintendo typically hosts a general Direct presentation toward the end of the summer season. While expectations are currently focused on the upcoming The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time re-release, industry precedent suggests that major, unannounced titles often appear during these showcases. If Metroid Ravenous is indeed slated for a 2026 window, a late-summer reveal would provide the necessary lead time for a holiday or early-year marketing campaign.
Keep an eye on official Nintendo Direct announcements in the coming months. Nintendo rarely comments on regulatory leaks, preferring to use their own presentation platforms to unveil new software.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Metroid Ravenous confirmed for the Nintendo Switch?
The Brazilian regulatory document identifies the title as a Nintendo product, but it does not explicitly specify the hardware. However, given the 2026 production date, industry expectations are that it would target current or next-generation Nintendo hardware.
Who is developing Metroid Ravenous?
Nintendo has not named a developer. Speculation points toward MercurySteam based on their previous work on the series, but this remains unverified.
What does the 12+ rating mean?
The 12+ classification from the Brazilian authority suggests the game will contain mild fantasy violence, consistent with the standard tone of the Metroid franchise.
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