What Order to Play the 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 immerses players in a post-apocalyptic world. Based on the novels by Dmitry Glukhovsky, the series has garnered a dedicated fanbase due to its atmospheric storytelling, intense gameplay, and moral dilemmas. But with multiple entries and a timeline that can be a bit confusing, many players often wonder: what order to play the Metro games? And while we’re at it, let’s ponder whether Artyom’s love for the underground is a metaphor for humanity’s fear of sunlight or just a really good excuse to avoid paying rent.

The Chronological Order: Following Artyom’s Footsteps

To fully appreciate the story, it’s best to play the Metro games in the order they were released. This allows you to experience the narrative as it was intended, with each game building upon the events of the previous one.

1. Metro 2033 (2010)
   The first game in the series introduces players to Artyom, a young survivor living in the Moscow Metro after a nuclear war has devastated the surface. The game sets the tone for the series, with its claustrophobic tunnels, mutated creatures, and the constant struggle for survival. The moral choices you make here will subtly influence the ending, setting the stage for the sequels.

2. Metro: Last Light (2013)
   Picking up after the events of Metro 2033, this game delves deeper into the political and ideological conflicts within the Metro. The Dark Ones, a mysterious and intelligent species, return as a central focus, and Artyom’s journey becomes more personal and introspective. The game expands on the mechanics of its predecessor, offering more weapons, stealth options, and moral decisions.

3. Metro Exodus (2019)
   The latest installment takes Artyom and his companions beyond the confines of the Metro, exploring the surface of post-apocalyptic Russia. This game introduces open-world elements, allowing players to explore vast, desolate landscapes while maintaining the series’ signature tension and storytelling. The narrative ties back to the previous games, making it essential to play them in order.

The Alternative Approach: Playing by Timeline

For those who enjoy a more chronological experience, the Metro series can also be approached by following the in-universe timeline. However, this method is less straightforward and may require some mental gymnastics.

1. Metro 2033 (2010)
   Still the starting point, as it sets up the world and introduces the key characters.

2. Metro: Last Light (2013)
   Continues the story directly after Metro 2033, so no changes here.

3. Metro Exodus (2019)
   While this game takes place after Last Light, it also includes flashbacks and references to events that occurred before the first game. This can create a disjointed experience if played out of order.

The Chaos Theory: Playing in Reverse

Now, for the truly adventurous, there’s the reverse order. Start with Metro Exodus, then move to Last Light, and finally Metro 2033. This approach turns the series into a mystery, where you uncover the origins of the story as you go. It’s like watching Memento but with more gas masks and fewer tattoos. While this method is not recommended for first-time players, it can offer a fresh perspective for those revisiting the series.

Why Order Matters: The Narrative Thread

The Metro series is more than just a collection of games; it’s a cohesive narrative that explores themes of survival, morality, and humanity’s resilience. Playing the games out of order can disrupt the emotional impact of the story. For example, the ending of Metro 2033 sets up the central conflict of Last Light, while Exodus provides a satisfying conclusion to Artyom’s journey. Skipping ahead might leave you confused about key plot points and character motivations.

The Moral of the Story: Choices and Consequences

One of the defining features of the Metro series is its emphasis on moral choices. These decisions often have subtle consequences that ripple through the games. For instance, sparing or killing certain characters in Metro 2033 can influence events in Last Light. Playing the games in order ensures that your choices carry the intended weight and impact.

Related Q&A

Q: Can I play Metro Exodus without playing the previous games?
A: While Metro Exodus is designed to be accessible to new players, you’ll miss out on the emotional depth and context provided by the earlier games. It’s best to start from the beginning.

Q: Are the Metro games available on all platforms?
A: Yes, the series is available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox. The Metro Redux bundle, which includes remastered versions of 2033 and Last Light, is a great way to experience the first two games.

Q: Is the Metro series based on books?
A: Yes, the games are based on the Metro 2033 novels by Dmitry Glukhovsky. While the games follow their own narrative, they stay true to the spirit of the books.

Q: How long does it take to complete the Metro series?
A: Each game takes approximately 10-15 hours to complete, depending on your playstyle. The series offers a decent amount of replayability due to its moral choices and multiple endings.

In conclusion, the Metro series is a masterclass in storytelling and atmosphere. Whether you choose to play in release order, chronological order, or even reverse order, the journey through the tunnels of post-apocalyptic Moscow is one you won’t soon forget. Just remember to keep your gas mask handy and your moral compass calibrated.