Metro 2039 hits 1 million wishlists, launches late 2026

4A Games' Metro 2039 has crossed 1 million Steam wishlists. The studio confirmed a late 2026 release with day-one XGP availability.

Where does that rank for a single-player FPS? Cyberpunk 2077 hit around 2 million wishlists pre-launch. Elden Ring peaked near 1.5 million. Metro 2039 still has eighteen months to go and it's already cleared seven figures—the series has a loyal base. Metro Exodus earned solid reviews, and the post-apocalyptic Russia setting with hardcore survival mechanics carved out a niche that few others occupy.

The technical hook is new ray tracing tech. Exodus already delivered impressive RT visuals; if 4A pushes further while opening up Moscow's ruins for exploration, the atmosphere could be a real draw. Gas masks and crafted ammo—core mechanics from previous entries—are staying, so the gameplay loop won't drift.

Day-one Game Pass is a win for console players. No need to buy at full price; subscription access lowers the barrier. PC players can wait for Steam optimization reports and launch discounts. 4A typically drops gameplay footage a few months before release, so there'll be time to judge performance and visuals before committing.

Late 2026 timing is strategic—if the schedule holds, it lands right in the holiday sales window and year-end media roundups. Whether 4A can stick the landing without delays is the real question.