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

The Metro series, based on the novels by Dmitry Glukhovsky, is a gripping collection of first-person shooter games that immerse players in a post-apocalyptic world. The games are set in the Moscow Metro, where survivors of a nuclear war have taken refuge. The series is known for its atmospheric storytelling, intense gameplay, and moral choices that affect the outcome of the story. If you’re new to the series or looking to revisit it, you might be wondering what order to play the Metro games. This article will guide you through the recommended sequence and explore the nuances of each installment.
The Recommended Order to Play the Metro Games
- Metro 2033 (2010)
- Metro: Last Light (2013)
- Metro Exodus (2019)
1. Metro 2033: The Beginning of the Journey
Metro 2033 is the first game in the series and serves as the foundation for the entire narrative. Based on Dmitry Glukhovsky’s novel of the same name, the game introduces players to the bleak world of the Moscow Metro. You play as Artyom, a young survivor who must navigate the dangers of the Metro tunnels, including mutated creatures, hostile factions, and the ever-present threat of radiation.
The game is a masterclass in atmospheric storytelling. The claustrophobic tunnels, the eerie silence, and the occasional bursts of action create a tense and immersive experience. The moral choices you make throughout the game also play a significant role in shaping the ending, adding a layer of depth to the narrative.
2. Metro: Last Light: The Continuation of Artyom’s Story
Metro: Last Light picks up where Metro 2033 left off, continuing Artyom’s journey through the Metro. The game delves deeper into the political and social dynamics of the Metro, exploring the tensions between different factions and the struggle for survival in a world where resources are scarce.
The gameplay in Last Light is more refined than its predecessor, with improved gunplay, stealth mechanics, and a greater emphasis on exploration. The story is equally compelling, with new characters and plot twists that keep you engaged from start to finish. Like Metro 2033, the game features multiple endings based on the choices you make, encouraging replayability.
3. Metro Exodus: A New Chapter in the Wasteland
Metro Exodus marks a significant departure from the previous games in terms of both setting and gameplay. While the first two games are confined to the Metro tunnels, Exodus takes players above ground, exploring the vast, open-world landscapes of post-apocalyptic Russia.
The game follows Artyom and a group of survivors as they embark on a cross-country journey aboard a train called the Aurora. The open-world environments offer a new level of freedom, allowing players to explore, scavenge, and engage in combat at their own pace. Despite the shift in gameplay, Exodus retains the series’ signature atmosphere and storytelling, with a narrative that ties together the events of the previous games.
Why Play in This Order?
Playing the Metro games in the order of release allows you to experience the story as it was intended, with each game building on the events and themes of the previous one. The character development, world-building, and narrative arcs are all designed to be experienced in this sequence, providing a cohesive and satisfying journey through the Metro universe.
Additionally, playing in this order allows you to appreciate the evolution of the series’ gameplay mechanics. From the linear, tunnel-based levels of Metro 2033 to the open-world exploration of Metro Exodus, each game introduces new elements that enhance the overall experience.
Alternative Play Order: Chronological vs. Release Order
Some players might consider playing the games in chronological order, starting with Metro Exodus and then moving on to Metro 2033 and Last Light. However, this approach can lead to confusion, as the story is not presented in a linear fashion. The events of Exodus are deeply connected to the previous games, and playing them out of order can diminish the impact of certain plot points and character developments.
Conclusion
The Metro series is a must-play for fans of post-apocalyptic storytelling and first-person shooters. By playing the games in the order of release—Metro 2033, Metro: Last Light, and Metro Exodus—you’ll experience a rich, interconnected narrative that spans the depths of the Moscow Metro to the vast, open landscapes of post-apocalyptic Russia. Each game offers a unique experience, with its own set of challenges, moral dilemmas, and unforgettable moments.
Related Q&A
Q: Can I play Metro Exodus without playing the previous games? A: While Metro Exodus can be enjoyed as a standalone game, playing the previous installments will provide a deeper understanding of the story and characters.
Q: Are the Metro games available on all platforms? A: Yes, the Metro games are available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox platforms.
Q: Is there a multiplayer mode in the Metro games? A: No, the Metro series is primarily a single-player experience, focusing on narrative and atmosphere.
Q: How long does it take to complete each Metro game? A: On average, Metro 2033 and Metro: Last Light take around 10-12 hours to complete, while Metro Exodus can take 15-20 hours, depending on your playstyle.
Q: Are there any plans for future Metro games? A: As of now, there has been no official announcement regarding a new Metro game, but the series has a dedicated fan base, and future installments are always a possibility.