How to Play Metro Games in Order: A Journey Through Post-Apocalyptic Moscow and Beyond

How to Play Metro Games in Order: A Journey Through Post-Apocalyptic Moscow and Beyond

The Metro series, based on Dmitry Glukhovsky’s novels, is a gripping narrative-driven first-person shooter franchise that immerses players in a post-apocalyptic world. To fully appreciate the story, it’s essential to play the games in the correct order. This guide will walk you through the sequence, offering insights into each installment and how they connect to create a cohesive experience.

1. Metro 2033 (2010)

Overview

“Metro 2033” is the first game in the series, setting the stage for the entire narrative. Players assume the role of Artyom, a young survivor living in the Moscow Metro system after a nuclear apocalypse. The game introduces the bleak, oppressive atmosphere that defines the series, with a mix of survival horror and first-person shooter elements.

Key Themes

  • Survival: Resources are scarce, and every bullet counts.
  • Moral Choices: The game presents moral dilemmas that affect the ending.
  • Atmosphere: The claustrophobic tunnels and the surface’s irradiated wasteland create a tense environment.

Gameplay Mechanics

  • Stealth and Combat: Players must balance stealth and combat to survive.
  • Resource Management: Ammo doubles as currency, adding a layer of strategy.
  • Exploration: The Metro’s labyrinthine tunnels and the surface’s ruins offer plenty of exploration opportunities.

2. Metro: Last Light (2013)

Overview

“Metro: Last Light” continues Artyom’s story, picking up after the events of “Metro 2033.” The game delves deeper into the Metro’s political landscape, introducing new factions and characters. The narrative explores themes of hope, redemption, and the human condition.

Key Themes

  • Political Intrigue: The Metro’s factions vie for power, adding complexity to the story.
  • Redemption: Artyom seeks to atone for past actions.
  • Hope: Despite the bleak setting, the game offers glimpses of hope and humanity.

Gameplay Mechanics

  • Enhanced Stealth: Improved AI and stealth mechanics make for more challenging encounters.
  • Expanded Arsenal: New weapons and equipment provide more tactical options.
  • Moral System: Choices continue to influence the game’s outcome.

3. Metro Exodus (2019)

Overview

“Metro Exodus” marks a significant departure from the previous games, taking players out of the Metro and into the vast, open world of post-apocalyptic Russia. Artyom and a group of survivors embark on a journey across the country, seeking a new life beyond the Metro.

Key Themes

  • Exploration: The game’s open-world segments encourage exploration and discovery.
  • Survival: The harsh environment and mutated creatures pose constant threats.
  • Hope and Despair: The journey is fraught with challenges, but the promise of a better life drives the characters forward.

Gameplay Mechanics

  • Open-World Elements: Large, explorable areas with dynamic weather and day-night cycles.
  • Crafting: Players can craft and modify weapons and equipment.
  • Narrative Depth: The story is more personal, focusing on Artyom’s relationships and motivations.

4. Metro 2033 Redux (2014) and Metro: Last Light Redux (2014)

Overview

The Redux versions of “Metro 2033” and “Metro: Last Light” are remastered editions that enhance the original games with improved graphics, gameplay mechanics, and additional content. These versions are ideal for newcomers or those looking to revisit the series with a fresh perspective.

Key Enhancements

  • Visual Upgrades: Higher resolution textures, improved lighting, and better character models.
  • Gameplay Tweaks: Refined mechanics, including a unified stealth system across both games.
  • Additional Content: New weapons, levels, and story elements.

Why Play the Redux Versions?

  • Consistency: The Redux versions provide a more consistent experience across the series.
  • Accessibility: Improved mechanics make the games more accessible to new players.
  • Enhanced Experience: The visual and gameplay upgrades enhance the overall experience.

5. Metro Exodus: The Two Colonels (2019) and Sam’s Story (2020)

Overview

These are the two story DLCs for “Metro Exodus,” offering additional content that expands on the main game’s narrative. “The Two Colonels” provides a glimpse into the life of Colonel Khlebnikov, while “Sam’s Story” follows the journey of Sam, an American marine, as he seeks a way back to the United States.

Key Themes

  • Character Development: The DLCs delve deeper into the backstories of secondary characters.
  • New Environments: Each DLC introduces new locations with unique challenges.
  • Narrative Expansion: The DLCs add layers to the main story, enriching the overall narrative.

Gameplay Mechanics

  • New Challenges: Each DLC introduces new gameplay elements and challenges.
  • Exploration: The new environments offer fresh opportunities for exploration.
  • Storytelling: The DLCs focus on narrative-driven gameplay, with a strong emphasis on character development.

Conclusion

Playing the Metro games in order is essential to fully appreciate the series’ rich narrative and immersive world. From the claustrophobic tunnels of “Metro 2033” to the vast, open landscapes of “Metro Exodus,” each game builds upon the last, creating a cohesive and compelling story. Whether you’re a newcomer or a returning fan, the Metro series offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Q1: Can I play “Metro Exodus” without playing the previous games?

A1: While “Metro Exodus” can be enjoyed as a standalone game, playing the previous installments will provide a deeper understanding of the story and characters.

Q2: Are the Redux versions necessary if I’ve already played the originals?

A2: The Redux versions offer significant improvements, but if you’re satisfied with the originals, they are not strictly necessary. However, they are recommended for a more polished experience.

Q3: How long does it take to complete the entire Metro series?

A3: The total playtime varies depending on playstyle, but on average, it takes around 50-60 hours to complete all three main games and their DLCs.

Q4: Is the Metro series suitable for casual gamers?

A4: The Metro series can be challenging, especially for casual gamers. However, the Redux versions offer easier difficulty settings, making the games more accessible.

Q5: What platforms are the Metro games available on?

A5: The Metro series is available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox platforms. “Metro Exodus” is also available on next-gen consoles with enhanced features.