Metro Games in Chronological Order: Best Way to Play the Series
Introduction
What is the best way to experience the Metro game series? If you’re new to the franchise or returning after years, figuring out the metro games in chronological order can make the story far more powerful.
The Metro series is known for its immersive storytelling, atmospheric environments, and emotional narrative. Inspired by the novels of Dmitry Glukhovsky, the games follow a survivor named Artyom navigating a post-apocalyptic Russia.
Since the release of Metro 2033, the franchise has grown into one of the most beloved narrative shooters ever created. But because of remasters and expanded versions, many players wonder:
Should you play Metro games by release date or chronological story order?
In this guide, you’ll learn:
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The metro games in chronological order
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The best order to play Metro games
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How each title connects to the overall story
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Which versions you should actually play today
Let’s explore the tunnels of Moscow in the correct order.
Metro Games in Chronological Order
If you want to follow the timeline of Artyom’s journey, the chronological order is the same as the main game release order.
1. Metro 2033
Release Year: 2010
Developer: 4A Games
Metro 2033 is the beginning of the entire story.
The game takes place in the Moscow Metro system after nuclear war devastates the surface world. Survivors live in underground stations that have turned into small societies.
You play as Artyom, a young man from Exhibition Station who is sent on a dangerous mission across the Metro to warn others about a mysterious threat called the Dark Ones.
Key highlights:
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Strong narrative driven by exploration
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Survival mechanics with limited resources
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Atmospheric horror elements
The game is based on the novel Metro 2033, which helped define the series’ dark tone.
Play Tip:
Most players today should play **Metro 2033 Redux instead of the original because it has improved graphics and mechanics.
2. Metro: Last Light
Release Year: 2013
Metro: Last Light continues the story directly after Metro 2033.
After the events of the first game, Artyom becomes a Ranger — an elite soldier protecting the Metro.
But when a surviving Dark One child appears, Artyom must decide whether the creatures are enemies… or the key to humanity’s future.
Major improvements in this game:
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More refined gunplay
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Deeper character interactions
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Expanded world-building
The narrative explores themes of fear, redemption, and moral choices.
Again, most players should play the improved version:
Metro: Last Light Redux
3. Metro Exodus
Release Year: 2019
Metro Exodus dramatically expands the scope of the series.
Instead of staying underground, Artyom and his companions leave Moscow aboard a train called the Aurora to search for life beyond the Metro.
This game introduces:
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Semi-open world environments
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Seasonal progression
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Day/night cycles affecting gameplay
Unlike the first two games, which are mostly linear, Exodus allows players to explore large regions across post-apocalyptic Russia.
The story concludes Artyom’s arc and provides some of the most emotional moments in the franchise.
Metro Exodus received major praise from critics and currently holds strong ratings on platforms like:
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Metacritic
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IGN
External references:
Best Order to Play Metro Games
Technically, the best order to play Metro games is the same as the chronological order.
Recommended Play Order
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Metro 2033 Redux
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Metro: Last Light Redux
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Metro Exodus
This order works best because:
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The story continues directly between games
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Character relationships develop over time
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Gameplay evolves naturally
Starting with Exodus would spoil key events from the earlier titles.
Should You Play the Redux Versions?
Yes — almost everyone should play the Redux versions.
What the Redux Versions Improve
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Better graphics
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Improved AI
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Enhanced lighting
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More stable performance
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Updated gameplay mechanics
The **Metro Redux bundle includes both remastered games.
It’s often the cheapest and best way to start the series.
How Long It Takes to Finish the Metro Games
Here is the average completion time:
| Game | Main Story |
|---|---|
| Metro 2033 Redux | ~9 hours |
| Metro Last Light Redux | ~10 hours |
| Metro Exodus | ~15 hours |
Total time to finish the series: ~34 hours
Data sources:
Why the Metro Series Is So Popular
The Metro games stand out because they combine storytelling, survival, and atmosphere.
Unlike many shooters, Metro focuses on:
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Slow exploration
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Environmental storytelling
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Moral decisions
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Resource management
The world-building is heavily influenced by the original novels and Russian culture.
Many critics compare the atmosphere to other narrative-heavy games like:
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S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl
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The Last of Us
FAQ: Metro Games in Chronological Order
1. What is the chronological order of Metro games?
The metro games in chronological order are:
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Metro 2033
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Metro: Last Light
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Metro Exodus
The story follows Artyom’s journey from surviving in the Moscow Metro to exploring the outside world.
2. What is the best order to play Metro games?
The best order to play Metro games is the same as the release order: Metro 2033, Metro Last Light, then Metro Exodus. Each game continues the story directly, so playing them in sequence gives the best narrative experience.
3. Are Metro 2033 and Metro 2033 Redux different?
Yes. Metro 2033 Redux is a remastered version of the original game with improved graphics, lighting, AI behavior, and smoother gameplay. Most modern players should start with the Redux version instead of the 2010 release.
4. Do you need to play Metro 2033 before Exodus?
Yes. While Metro Exodus can technically be played alone, many characters and story events reference earlier games. Playing Metro 2033 and Last Light first helps you fully understand Artyom’s journey and emotional decisions.
5. Will there be another Metro game?
Yes. Developer **4A Games has confirmed that a new Metro game is currently in development. While details remain limited, the next title is expected to continue the universe created by Dmitry Glukhovsky.
Conclusion
The metro games in chronological order are simple but incredibly rewarding to experience.
Start with Metro 2033, continue with Metro Last Light, and finish with Metro Exodus to follow Artyom’s complete journey from the underground tunnels of Moscow to the open wastelands of Russia.
If you want the best experience, choose the Redux versions of the first two games.
The Metro series remains one of the most atmospheric and story-rich shooters ever created — and it’s absolutely worth playing from beginning to end.
So here’s a question for you:
Do you prefer the dark tunnels of Metro 2033 or the open world of Metro Exodus?
