Metro Exodus is the third chapter in this stellar series.  This installment tells the story of post apocalyptic Moscow, left in ruin after a nuclear explosion that nearly wiped out all humanity. Not more than a few thousand were able to escape the near extinction level event and now reside underground, waiting out the horrors that reside on the surface.

Tension is always present and builds as you push further and further into the unknown.  Welcome to Metro Exodus  

The surface is a cold and unforgiving wasteland, riddled with mutated creatures that are incredibly aggressive.  Evolving from the nuclear fallout, they have morphed into unnatural beasts that fear nothing.  You have to be ever vigil and aware of your surroundings.  Ammo is scarce and there is a great number of threats outside the underground bunkers; whether it be in the skies or stalking you from a distance in packs.  It’s a highly volatile and violent world ready to swallow you up in a moments notice. Tension is always present and builds as you push further and further into the unknown.  Welcome to Metro Exodus.

Exploration is a thrilling experience, as you have no idea what may lurk around the corner

The story once again follows Artyom (from Metro 2033 and Metro: Last Light) , who is a ranger that is flat out determined to find other survivors, regardless of what it costs him.  After a few close calls, you eventually make your way to a robust locomotive called the Aurora.  This will allow you to travel to distant locations in search of any other survivors and most importantly a new place to call home.  The Aurora is also packed with your fellow comrades.  Players can learn more about all of them in between stops.  It’s one of the very few safe havens for our protagonist during this journey.  

The areas Artyom visits is brimming with detail, from the vast frozen landscapes to the dimly lit caverns that hosts some truly nightmarish mutations

Exploration is a thrilling experience, as you have no idea what may lurk around the corner and deep within the shadows.  The campaign is wonderfully immersive as you wipe the condensation away from your mask to get a better view of the terrain, walking cautiously with your finger resting lightly on the trigger. The areas Artyom visits are brimming with detail, from the vast frozen landscapes to the dimly lit caverns that hosts some truly nightmarish mutations.  The world itself seems that much more alive as 4A Games has implemented excellent day/night cycles, plus some fantastic dynamic weather effects.

Being ready and prepared for what you may run into out in the wild is crucial to surviving .  Even when you are locked and loaded with full health, an ambush in numbers can quickly deplete your ammo on hand, making your odds of survival slim in these deadly environments.  Thankfully there are numerous difficulty settings to accommodate newcomers and Metro vets alike.  

Weapons, Filters and Workbenches

There is a healthy selection of weapons and some interesting customization at hand in Metro Exodus.  Attachments can be added at workbenches to make your Kalash or VSV unique and more to your liking.  The Shambler and Bastard guns are two great choices for dealing out some serious damage.  As you travel and with use, all firearms require cleaning and regular maintenance.   Another thing to keep in mind is the importance of clean filters for your mask.  Run out of these and it’s absolutely game over.  I felt these little touches made my gaming experience feel that much more immersive and believable.  

Conclusion

Metro Exodus is a post apocalyptic masterpiece that paints the horrors and aftermath that follows a nuclear war.  It also shows there is always light and hope for those willing to march forward into the unknown.  The campaign is a visual tour de force that will keep you engrossed in the characters, story and world throughout the entire venture.

Review Copy provided by Deep Silver