3.5/5 ★ – Itsgrimsby's review of Metro Exodus.

I’m very conflicted on Metro Exodus. I think compared to 2033 and Last Light it’s a very different experience and in many ways not for the better. The big change is the open zone style levels that allow you to explore and survive the harsh world on the surface while taking on side objectives and scavenging. The downside to this is that what I really enjoyed about the Metro franchise was how well it guides you through its levels. They’re usually tight and claustrophobic, whereas Exodus is the opposite. I found myself being frustrated by getting lost, or not realising something would be the end point of the level. There is a good gameplay evolution to these sections, but I don’t think it’s as good as its predecessors which is what disappoints me. Having said that, Exodus still does feature levels more akin to the Metro that fans are familiar with, and also has linear sections within the open world. I think these are great and are definitely the highlight of the game. In terms of story, I enjoyed seeing the world expand and learning what different groups on the surface have done to survive. Though I felt the actual story was a little bit weak, and a lot of the dialogue felt quite poorly written and performed. The last thing I want to mention are the two dlc packs. The Two Colonels is classic metro and a really tight couple of hour experience that I really really liked. Sam’s Story on the other hand is a longer experience that takes place in a big open zone. I was enjoying Sam’s Story until I got lost and couldn’t figure out where to go. It’s also a map that is covered in water that requires you to find a boat to get around and I just didn’t really enjoy that all that much. All in all I’d still recommend this one to fans of the series, but I’d say to go into expecting something different.