Metro: Every Game In The Series, Ranked

Key Takeaways

Metro series blends FPS action with survival horror, immersing players in post-nuclear Russia.
Correct play-order: Metro Awakening, Metro 2033, Last Light, Exodus.
Metro Exodus successfully transitions to an open-world format, offering new elements and enhanced gameplay.

As a seasoned gamer with over two decades of experience under my belt, I must say that the Metro series has truly captured my heart and imagination. Each game offers a unique blend of storytelling, survival mechanics, and immersive environments that keep me coming back for more.

As I delve into Dmitry Glukhovsky’s Metro series, I find myself in a harrowing, post-apocalyptic Russia, scarred by nuclear devastation. My character, Artyom, starts as a humble tunnel-dweller of his station but transforms into a formidable Ranger over time. The games offer an adrenaline-pumping mix of first-person shooter (FPS) action, survival elements, and spine-chilling psychological horror. Known for their remarkable immersion in the FPS genre, these games seamlessly blend stealth and strategic gameplay with heart-stopping set-pieces and supernatural mutant battles.

If you’re a fan of the original books or realistic first-person shooting games, this series promises an array of captivating experiences, backed by a gripping narrative and diverse themes such as philosophy, religion, politics, and beyond. The appeal is broad, making it enjoyable for both casual and dedicated gamers, which has contributed to its growing cult status since its debut over a decade ago.

The correct play-order for the series in chronological is as follows:

– Metro Awakening

– Metro 2033

– Metro Last Light

– Metro Exodus

In simple terms, the “Redux” versions of Metro 2033 and Last Light have been visually upgraded but don’t change the original storyline or game mechanics.

4 Metro Awakening

A Highly Immersive & Terrifying VR Experience

Titled “Metro: Awakening,” this new installment sets itself apart as the only game in the series that necessitates Virtual Reality (VR) equipment for play. This technological marvel doesn’t just stand out for its innovation but also excels at recreating the settings, creatures, and eerie ambiance reminiscent of the original games. The narrative, penned by the original author Dimitry Glukhovsky, serves as a prequel to “Metro 2033,” deviating from the usual protagonist Artyom. Instead, it focuses on a station doctor named Serdar.

Beyond offering a top-notch VR gaming experience, comparable to the complexity of Half Life: Alyx, Metro Exodus: Awakening also broadens the game’s world significantly, delving deeper into themes of occultism and the supernatural, as seen in the original books. However, it should be noted that the game is limited by the very nature of VR technology. Despite these limitations, it manages to innovate and serves as a commendable addition to the series.

3 Metro Last Light (Redux)

A Perfect Sequel Expanding On The First Game

In essence, “Metro Last Light” serves as the follow-up to the initial “Metro 2033,” enhancing numerous aspects for some gamers who even consider it the peak of the series. However, for newcomers, it might be challenging to grasp due to its standalone nature. Situated between the incidents depicted in “Metro 2033” and “Metro Exodus,” the narrative focuses on Artyom’s journey as a more seasoned character within the SPARTA Rangers, having evolved from his previous appearances.

In comparison to other games within the series, Metro Last Light offers a number of standout moments and boasts a more user-friendly game structure. A significant portion of the narrative unfolds above ground rather than underground, leading to an emphasis on action over psychological survival-horror elements seen in other titles. Essentially, Metro Last Light serves as a transition between the stealth-focused gameplay of Metro 2033 and the surface-based exploration prevalent in Metro Exodus.

2 Metro Exodus

A Successful Pivot Into An Open-World Format

In a daring move, Metro Exodus deviated significantly from the closed-setting and story-centric approach of its predecessors by adopting an open-world format. Despite this risky transition, the game executed it admirably, maintaining the original’s mood while introducing fresh aspects, characters, and mechanics that enriched the overall play experience. Admittedly, the speed slackens a bit during the second act, but otherwise, it delivers some of the most impactful moments in the entire series.

As I stepped into the shoes of Artyom, the seasoned leader in Metro Exodus, it became clear to me that this game stood out among its predecessors when it came to character development and my bond with them. The diverse environments kept gameplay engaging, allowing me to navigate the map using vehicles, boats, and even zip lines. Even though it retained many of the survival aspects found in other games, such as the necessity for gas mask filters and powering up Artyom’s minimal electric light, Metro Exodus felt fresh and captivating.

1 Metro 2033 (Redux)

The Iconic Original Holds Up Today As A True Masterpiece

According to Dmitry Glukhovsky’s original novel, the game “Metro 2033” stands out as a defining title in the series, narrating Artyom’s transformation from a humble tunnel-dweller at VDNKh into a seasoned traveler amidst intense battles. The game also presents the major factions, societies, and creatures that persist throughout many parts of the series later on. Despite having been released over a decade ago, and the Redux version merely updating the graphics, the gameplay remains robust and is still considered one of the top-tier stealth shooters available today.

Metro 2033 stands out among the series for its exceptional moments, memorable characters, and what may very well be its most compelling storyline. The game also effectively captures the desperation of the in-game population. Unlike later games, weaponry and equipment aren’t as technologically advanced, creating nerve-wracking scenarios with uncertain resolutions. Additionally, there are several possible endings, although this isn’t explicitly stated. Whether you’re a new or returning player, there is still much to explore in this post-apocalyptic world.

2024-11-13 23:05