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Metro Mystery

Game Progress: 100%
Achievement Progress: 49/49
Overall Rating: ★★★★☆

Personal Note
I recently picked up the Metro franchise bundle during a major sale, with little knowledge about the series. Unlike the first game, I had some expectations going into this sequel, especially after the high praise it received from friends. Having been thoroughly immersed in the world of the Metro, I couldn’t wait to dive back into Artyom’s shoes. And I was not disappointed.
While Metro: Last Light builds upon the foundation laid in its predecessor, it refines the setting, introduces more impactful mechanics, and expands on the story. I found myself just as captivated by the atmosphere, the tense combat, and the intriguing characters—this game is a great evolution of the Metro universe.

Story & Setting
Metro: Last Light takes place a year after the events of Metro 2033, following Artyom as he navigates the aftermath of his actions in the first game. The tension between the factions in the Metro system is escalating, and the surface, though still radioactive, presents new dangers. The game explores themes of survival, sacrifice, and the morality of war, all while Artyom wrestles with the weight of his past decisions.

The narrative feels more direct and refined compared to the first game. Last Light introduces new characters and factions, each with their own agenda, which deepens the intrigue of the world. The storytelling is still a mix of subtlety and direct exposition—overheard conversations, environmental storytelling, and narrative moments all help build a rich world filled with moral complexity. While it stays true to the tone and setting of Metro 2033, Artyom has a greater purpose in this game, as he is no longer saving his home, but all of Moscow's underground.

Gameplay & Mechanics
Metro: Last Light improves on the formula of Metro 2033, offering smoother mechanics while keeping the core survival elements intact. The game is still linear, but it introduces larger areas and more variety in environments, making the journey feel more expansive. The gameplay retains a balance between stealth and combat, giving players the freedom to approach situations however they see fit. The game has no multiplayer.


Combat and Stealth: You’re once again presented with the choice of how to approach encounters—whether through stealth, conserving precious ammo, or opting for a more aggressive, gun-blazing approach. The mechanics feel tighter in Last Light, with smoother controls and more varied weapons. However, many of the weapons are still cobbled together from scraps, maintaining the same gritty, makeshift aesthetic. The enemy AI has also improved, but there are still moments where enemies seem oblivious to your presence.
Survival Mechanics: Resource management remains a key element of Last Light, with even more emphasis placed on exploration. You’ll need to gather supplies such as gas masks, filters, ammo, and health packs. Like its predecessor, the game challenges you to make careful choices about when to fight and when to conserve resources. While vendors are available, the true value lies in scavenging—finding valuable items in lockers, stashes, and from fallen enemies. These survival mechanics feel more refined but still manage to retain that sense of danger and urgency.
Exploration: While still mostly linear, Metro: Last Light gives you a bit more freedom to explore your environment. Hidden collectibles, secret areas, and weapon upgrades are scattered throughout the world, rewarding those who take the time to search. Each level is carefully designed, with intricate details that make each area feel unique, and the game encourages exploration even as you move through tightly controlled environments.
Decision-Making: While not as extensive as Metro 2033, Last Light still offers some moral choices that influence how events unfold. Though these decisions don’t dramatically change the plot, they do impact your relationships with key characters and offer a sense of control over Artyom’s fate. The ending, in particular, is deeply tied to your actions, giving the game a similar personal touch as the first installment.


Graphics & Audio
I have only played the Redux version but have watched gameplay of the original. The graphics show some improvement compared to Metro 2033, but nothing mind-blowing. We have to keep in mind that, just like the previous installment, this game isn’t the newest release. That said, the environments are more varied, and the atmosphere in certain sections is more enhanced than in Metro 2033.

The audio design continues to impress. The ambient sounds of dripping water, distant screams, and the hum of electricity amplify the tense atmosphere. The soundtrack complements the action and builds tension beautifully. The voice acting is stronger than in Metro 2033, and Artyom’s character feels more developed, with more expressive dialogue despite his silent protagonist role.

Achievements
The achievements in Metro: Last Light are well-integrated into the gameplay. Most are earned through natural progression, whether it’s exploring every corner of the Metro or taking down enemies with specific weapons (quick saves are a life saver for some of these!). However, for the dedicated achievement hunter, completing playthroughs on different difficulty levels or unlocking alternate endings can take some time. The achievement list is satisfying and rewarding for those who enjoy a bit of extra challenge. This game offers DLC achievements that are not part of the main story.

Extra Content
Metro: Last Light comes with DLC levels that provide additional missions, allowing players to experience certain scenarios from the perspective of different characters. These missions give a fresh take on some of the game’s main events, offering a unique perspective on how these moments played out for other characters in the story. It’s a fun addition that adds depth and context, enriching the overall experience and providing a bit more insight into the Metro world. The DLC was included with the base game and did not cost any additional money.

Closing Thoughts
Metro: Last Light is a fantastic sequel that builds upon the foundations of Metro 2033, improving on the gameplay while expanding the story. The game’s attention to detail, atmospheric world-building, and improved mechanics make it a memorable experience. It addresses several potential issues from the first game, offering a more refined and polished experience. I moved straight into Last Light after finishing Metro 2033, and I found myself just as hooked. Definitely worth playing!