What is the planet setting of Metroid Dread?

The planet setting of Metroid Dread is ZDR. Samus Aran travels there after the Galactic Federation receives evidence that the supposedly extinct X parasites may still survive on the remote world.

ZDR is the home of the Chozo warrior Raven Beak and contains several distinct regions, including the hot volcanic area of Cataris, the watery Burenia, the frozen Ghavoran, and the Chozo ruins of Ferenia. The planet's varied environments support the game's emphasis on movement, escape, and environmental exploration.

Samus is sent to investigate the X and the loss of contact with seven E.M.M.I. robots. Raven Beak has secretly reprogrammed the machines and uses the mission to lure Samus to ZDR, where he hopes to exploit the Metroid DNA in her body. The planet therefore becomes both an investigation site and the stage for the conflict's larger revelation.

ZDR is easy to confuse with other Metroid locations. Aether is central to Metroid Prime 2, Tallon IV is the setting of Metroid Prime, and Zebes is the original game's main planet. Metroid Dread was released for Nintendo Switch in 2021.