What Order to Play Metro Games: A Journey Through the Tunnels of Time and Chaos

The Metro series, developed by 4A Games, is a gripping narrative-driven first-person shooter that plunges players into the post-apocalyptic world of the Moscow Metro. Based on the novels by Dmitry Glukhovsky, the series has garnered a dedicated fanbase for its atmospheric storytelling, immersive gameplay, and hauntingly beautiful environments. But with multiple entries in the series, newcomers often find themselves asking: What order should I play the Metro games in? And while we’re at it, let’s ponder this: If time travel were possible, would Artyom still choose to save the Metro, or would he just binge-watch cat videos instead?

The Chronological Order: A Linear Descent into Darkness

The most straightforward way to experience the Metro series is to play the games in the order they were released. This approach allows you to follow the story as it was intended, with each game building upon the events of the previous one.

1. Metro 2033 (2010)

The journey begins with Metro 2033, the first game in the series. Set in the aftermath of a nuclear war, humanity has taken refuge in the Moscow Metro system. You play as Artyom, a young survivor who must navigate the dangers of the Metro, including mutated creatures, hostile factions, and the ever-present threat of radiation. The game introduces players to the world of Metro, its lore, and its characters, setting the stage for the sequels.

• Why start here? Metro 2033 lays the foundation for the entire series. It introduces key characters like Artyom, Hunter, and Khan, as well as the moral dilemmas that define the Metro universe. Playing this first ensures you understand the stakes and the world-building.

2. Metro: Last Light (2013)

The sequel, Metro: Last Light, picks up where Metro 2033 left off. Artyom is now a seasoned survivor, but the Metro is still a dangerous place. The game delves deeper into the politics of the Metro, exploring the tensions between different factions and the lingering threat of the Dark Ones. The story is more complex, with multiple endings depending on your choices throughout the game.

• Why play this next? Last Light expands on the themes and characters introduced in 2033. It’s a natural progression in terms of both story and gameplay, with improved mechanics and a more refined experience.

3. Metro Exodus (2019)

The latest entry in the series, Metro Exodus, takes a bold step by moving the action above ground. Artyom and a group of survivors embark on a journey across post-apocalyptic Russia, searching for a new home. The game features open-world elements, allowing players to explore vast, desolate landscapes while still maintaining the series’ signature tension and storytelling.

• Why save this for last? Exodus represents a significant departure from the previous games, both in terms of setting and gameplay. Playing it after 2033 and Last Light allows you to appreciate the evolution of the series and the culmination of Artyom’s journey.

The Narrative Order: A Deeper Dive into the Metro Universe

For those who want to fully immerse themselves in the Metro universe, there’s another way to approach the series: by incorporating the novels and additional content into your playthrough. This method provides a richer understanding of the world and its characters.

1. Read Metro 2033 (Novel)

Before diving into the games, consider reading Dmitry Glukhovsky’s Metro 2033. The novel provides a more detailed backstory and deeper insights into the Metro’s history, factions, and characters. While the game adaptation is faithful, the book offers additional context that enhances the experience.

• Why read first? The novel provides a more comprehensive understanding of the Metro universe, making the games’ events and characters more meaningful.

2. Play Metro 2033 (Game)

After reading the novel, play Metro 2033. You’ll notice how the game adapts the source material, bringing the story to life with its atmospheric visuals and immersive gameplay.

3. Play Metro: Last Light

Next, move on to Metro: Last Light. The game continues Artyom’s story, exploring new themes and introducing new characters. The connection to the novel is less direct, but the game still benefits from the foundation laid by Metro 2033.

4. Read Metro 2034 (Novel)

While not directly tied to the games, Metro 2034 provides additional lore and explores other characters in the Metro universe. It’s a worthwhile read for fans who want to delve deeper into the world.

5. Play Metro Exodus

Finally, play Metro Exodus. The game’s departure from the Metro system and its exploration of new environments make it a fitting conclusion to Artyom’s journey. The added context from the novels enhances the emotional weight of the story.

The Chaos Order: For the Bold and the Curious

For those who enjoy a bit of chaos, there’s always the option to play the games out of order. This approach can lead to a unique experience, as you piece together the story in a non-linear fashion.

1. Start with Metro Exodus

Why not begin with the most recent entry? Metro Exodus offers a fresh perspective on the series, with its open-world elements and above-ground exploration. Playing this first could give you a different appreciation for the earlier games when you eventually circle back to them.

2. Jump to Metro 2033

After Exodus, dive into Metro 2033. The contrast between the claustrophobic tunnels of the Metro and the vast, open landscapes of Exodus can be striking. You’ll also gain a deeper understanding of Artyom’s origins and the world he’s trying to escape.

3. Finish with Metro: Last Light

Finally, play Metro: Last Light. By this point, you’ll have a fragmented understanding of the story, but the game’s narrative will help tie everything together. This approach can be rewarding for players who enjoy piecing together a story from different perspectives.

The Philosophical Order: A Journey Through Themes

The Metro series is more than just a collection of games; it’s a meditation on survival, morality, and the human condition. Playing the games in an order that emphasizes these themes can provide a unique and thought-provoking experience.

1. Metro 2033: The Struggle for Survival

Start with Metro 2033, which focuses on the basic struggle for survival in a hostile world. The game’s themes of fear, hope, and resilience set the tone for the series.

2. Metro: Last Light: The Weight of Morality

Next, play Metro: Last Light, which delves into the moral complexities of the Metro. The game forces players to make difficult choices, exploring the consequences of their actions and the nature of humanity.

3. Metro Exodus: The Search for Redemption

Finally, play Metro Exodus, which shifts the focus to redemption and the search for a better future. The game’s themes of hope and renewal provide a fitting conclusion to the series.

FAQs

1. Do I need to play the Metro games in order?

While it’s not strictly necessary, playing the games in order provides the most coherent narrative experience. Each game builds on the events of the previous one, so playing them out of order may lead to confusion.

2. Should I read the Metro novels before playing the games?

Reading the novels can enhance your understanding of the Metro universe, but it’s not required. The games do a good job of introducing the world and its characters on their own.

3. Can I start with Metro Exodus?

Yes, you can start with Metro Exodus, but be aware that it assumes some familiarity with the series’ lore. Playing the earlier games first will provide a richer experience.

4. Are the Metro games connected to the novels?

The games are based on the novels by Dmitry Glukhovsky, but they take some liberties with the source material. While the games follow the general storyline, they also introduce new elements and characters.

5. Which Metro game is the best?

This is subjective and depends on personal preference. Metro 2033 is praised for its atmosphere and storytelling, Last Light for its improved gameplay and deeper narrative, and Exodus for its open-world exploration and emotional depth.

In the end, the order in which you play the Metro games is up to you. Whether you choose to follow the chronological order, dive into the novels, or embrace the chaos, one thing is certain: the Metro series offers a hauntingly beautiful journey through a world that is as dangerous as it is captivating. So grab your gas mask, load your rifle, and prepare to descend into the tunnels of the Metro. Just remember: in the Metro, every choice matters—even the order in which you play the games.