The Metro games have never drummed up business akin to juggernauts like Call of Duty or Halo, but since the first game’s debut in 2010, the series has developed a loyal following all the same.
Still, not ready to rest on its laurels, Metro Exodus developer 4A Games is aiming to switch up the formula by doing away with strictly linear level design and taking its action outside of the titular Metro to focus on life above ground.
During my recent hands-on with the game, I spent most of my time in the Caspian Desert – a sprawling danger-filled environment that wouldn’t look out of place in a Mad Max film.
Considering the past two games were almost exclusively focused below the ground, the level of freedom on offer was refreshing – as was the brighter, more vibrant colour palate. But don’t go thinking you’re any safer outside the Metro. It wasn’t long before my exploratory adventures were violently interrupted by a creepy collection of mutated zombie-like foes.
Watch the story trailer below:
After hurriedly fumbling my way through the encounter, I was painfully reminded of one of Metro’s core concepts. Ammo is scarce, so choosing when and how to engage in firefights should always be in the forefront of your mind.
I had already wasted an entire weapon, so this continued scarcity helped ratchet up the tension going forward, especially when things got hairy. Unlike previous entries, however, you’ll no longer have to decide whether to use ammo as currency – an understandable trade-off considering the underground markets of the Metro no longer really exist.
Yet what was most fascinating about my time with Exodus, were the times that 4A took the focus away from firing my weapon. In a modern landscape where most developers aim for large bombastic Hollywood setpieces, Metro Exodus seems to have the confidence to rely on the deeply atmospheric world it is crafting.
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As I delved deeper into the demo and was sent into a desolate, spider-infested bunker, the game’s dark and grimy halls never had me feeling at complete ease. I was instead constantly waiting for a shoe that might never end up dropping.
I have no doubt there will still be plenty of things to shoot when Metro Exodus does finally release, but it’s these quieter, more subtle moments that really have me excited.
Metro Exodus will be available for PS4, XBO and PC on February 15.
