The “Metro” game series, based on Dmitry Glukhovsky’s novels, is not just another post-apocalyptic shooter; it is a true masterpiece that immerses players in a dark, grim, and entirely unique world where every detail, every line of dialogue, and every sound is crafted to deliver an intense survival experience in the aftermath of a nuclear catastrophe.

The first game in the series, Metro 2033, was a true revelation. The powerful storyline, based on Glukhovsky’s novel, and the incredibly detailed world of the Moscow metro laid the foundation for a successful franchise. The atmosphere of a terrifying future, where people live in tunnels beneath the earth while radiation and mutants rule the surface, is palpable at every turn. The game skillfully combines elements of horror, survival, and shooter gameplay, pushing the player not only to fight for survival but also to care about the fates of characters who, despite their brief appearances, become real friends.

Metro: Last Light builds upon and develops the ideas of the first installment, becoming a more layered and refined project. The game offers a deeper story, new mechanics, and enhanced graphics. The theme of morality and choice once again plays a significant role, with the player’s decisions about how to act in certain situations affecting the outcome. The world is even more varied, and the “everything-is-precious” mechanic—where ammunition and resources are scarce, and keeping your equipment in working order is essential—adds a unique atmosphere of desperation and the constant fight for survival.

Metro Exodus, the third and most ambitious project in the series, takes the franchise to new heights. It is no longer just a game about survival in the Moscow metro but a full-scale journey across post-apocalyptic Russia. Open locations, the ability to choose your routes, and a wealth of side quests create a true sense of adventure, while the dramatic story of Artyom and his companions continues to captivate from the very beginning. The atmosphere, as always, is irresistible, and elements of stealth and survival make the game not only visually stunning but intellectually engaging as well.

What makes the “Metro” series truly unique is not just its mechanics and settings, but the profound philosophical undertones embedded in Glukhovsky’s books and translated into the games. Questions about humanity, morality, the meaning of life, and the tragedy of war and its aftermath are posed with such strength and conviction that they continue to resonate long after the game is over. Artyom, the protagonist, becomes a symbol of all humanity struggling for its fate despite all the horrors and hardships.

The “Metro” series is an example of how a game can transcend entertainment and become true art. It makes you feel, fear, hope, and reflect. The visual design, sound design, well-crafted plot, and charismatic characters combine to make “Metro” one of the best creations in the post-apocalyptic genre, and it rightfully continues to capture the hearts of players around the world. If you haven’t yet immersed yourself in this world, I highly recommend doing so, because “Metro” is not just a game—it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve finished playing.