Do You Need to Play Metro Games in Order? And Why Does the Apocalypse Always Taste Like Canned Beans?

The Metro series, based on Dmitry Glukhovsky’s novels, has become a cornerstone of post-apocalyptic gaming. With its immersive storytelling, atmospheric world-building, and intense survival mechanics, the franchise has captivated players worldwide. But one question often arises: Do you need to play the Metro games in order? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think, and it opens up a broader discussion about narrative continuity, gameplay evolution, and whether irradiated mutants have a secret recipe for canned beans.

The Case for Playing in Order

1. Narrative Continuity

The Metro series is deeply rooted in its story. Starting with Metro 2033, followed by Metro: Last Light, and concluding with Metro Exodus, the games follow the journey of Artyom, a young survivor navigating the harsh realities of a post-nuclear Moscow. Playing the games in order allows you to experience Artyom’s growth, understand the world’s lore, and appreciate the emotional weight of his decisions.

For example, Metro 2033 introduces you to the Metro’s claustrophobic tunnels, the warring factions, and the mysterious Dark Ones. Skipping to Metro Exodus without this context might leave you wondering why Artyom is so determined to leave the Metro or why certain characters evoke such strong reactions.

2. Gameplay Evolution

The Metro series has evolved significantly in terms of gameplay mechanics. Metro 2033 focuses heavily on survival horror, with limited resources and a constant sense of dread. Metro: Last Light refines these mechanics, introducing more polished gunplay and stealth elements. Metro Exodus expands the scope, offering semi-open worlds and a greater emphasis on exploration.

Playing the games in order allows you to appreciate these advancements. Jumping straight into Exodus might make the earlier games feel outdated, while starting with 2033 gives you a sense of progression and innovation.

3. Emotional Investment

The Metro series is as much about its characters as it is about its world. By playing in order, you develop a deeper connection to Artyom, Anna, Miller, and others. You witness their struggles, triumphs, and losses, making the story’s climax in Exodus all the more impactful.

The Case Against Playing in Order

1. Standalone Stories

While the Metro games are connected, each title tells a self-contained story. Metro 2033 focuses on the Dark Ones, Last Light delves into the political tensions within the Metro, and Exodus explores life beyond the tunnels. If you’re more interested in gameplay than narrative, you can jump into any game without feeling lost.

2. Accessibility

Not everyone has the time or resources to play through the entire series. If you’re new to the franchise, starting with Exodus might be more appealing due to its modern graphics and open-world design. The game does a decent job of summarizing past events, allowing newcomers to enjoy the experience without prior knowledge.

3. Personal Preference

Some players prefer to start with the most recent entry to gauge their interest in the series. If you enjoy Exodus, you might be motivated to go back and play the earlier games. Conversely, if you start with 2033 and find it too dated, you might miss out on the later titles.

The Middle Ground: A Hybrid Approach

If you’re torn between playing in order and jumping straight into the latest entry, consider a hybrid approach. Start with Metro: Last Light, which strikes a balance between the survival horror of 2033 and the open-world elements of Exodus. It provides enough context to understand the story while offering a more polished gameplay experience.

Alternatively, you can watch recap videos or read summaries of the earlier games before diving into Exodus. This way, you get the best of both worlds: a solid understanding of the lore without committing to the entire series.

Why Does the Apocalypse Always Taste Like Canned Beans?

This brings us to the second part of our discussion: why does the apocalypse always taste like canned beans? In the Metro series, canned food is a staple of survival. It’s a practical choice, given its long shelf life, but it also serves as a metaphor for the monotony and desperation of post-apocalyptic life.

Canned beans represent the loss of variety and the struggle to find joy in a world stripped of its former luxuries. They remind us that survival isn’t just about staying alive; it’s about finding meaning in the mundane. Perhaps the real question isn’t whether you need to play the Metro games in order, but whether you can appreciate the beauty of a can of beans in a world gone mad.

Related Questions

1. Can I play Metro Exodus without playing the previous games? Yes, Metro Exodus is designed to be accessible to newcomers. While playing the earlier games enhances the experience, it’s not strictly necessary.

2. Which Metro game has the best story? This is subjective, but many fans consider Metro: Last Light to have the most compelling narrative due to its exploration of moral dilemmas and political intrigue.

3. Are the Metro games based on books? Yes, the Metro series is based on Dmitry Glukhovsky’s novels, starting with Metro 2033. The games expand on the books’ universe while staying true to their themes.

4. Why is canned food so prevalent in post-apocalyptic settings? Canned food is a practical choice for survival scenarios due to its long shelf life and portability. It also serves as a narrative device to highlight the scarcity and monotony of post-apocalyptic life.

5. Is Metro Exodus open-world? Metro Exodus features semi-open worlds, with large, explorable areas that offer a mix of linear storytelling and player freedom.

In conclusion, whether you need to play the Metro games in order depends on your priorities. If you value narrative continuity and character development, starting with Metro 2033 is the way to go. If you’re more interested in gameplay and accessibility, you can jump into Exodus without feeling lost. And if you’re still wondering why the apocalypse tastes like canned beans, well, that’s a mystery even the Dark Ones might not be able to solve.