If you’re searching for the correct Metro games in order, you’re in the right place. The Metro franchise is one of the most atmospheric post-apocalyptic shooter series ever created, combining survival horror, immersive storytelling, stealth mechanics, and emotional world-building inside the ruins of nuclear-devastated Russia.
This guide explains the best Metro games in order, including release order and chronological timeline, so you can fully experience Artyom’s journey through the deadly Moscow Metro system and beyond.

Best Way to Play Metro Games
The best Metro games in order is release order because the trilogy follows a continuous storyline centered around Artyom.Each game builds directly on the previous entry, expanding both the world and gameplay mechanics while developing important characters and factions.Playing in release order also allows players to naturally experience the evolution from claustrophobic underground survival horror to larger open environments in later entries.
Metro Games in Release Order
- Metro 2033 (2010)
- Metro: Last Light (2013)
- Metro Exodus (2019)
This release order is also the official chronological order of the Metro trilogy.
Metro Games Chronological Order
- Metro 2033
- Metro: Last Light
- Metro Exodus
The Metro games in order timeline begins after nuclear war destroys much of humanity, forcing survivors to live underground inside the Moscow Metro tunnels.Metro 2033 follows Artyom as he travels through dangerous stations filled with mutants, hostile factions, and supernatural threats.Metro: Last Light continues directly afterward, exploring the consequences of the first game while deepening the political conflicts inside the Metro system.Metro Exodus later expands the franchise dramatically by allowing players to travel across post-apocalyptic Russia aboard the Aurora train.
Why Metro Became So Popular
The Metro series became popular because of its unmatched atmosphere and immersion.Unlike many traditional shooters, Metro focuses heavily on survival mechanics like limited ammunition, gas mask filters, stealth gameplay, and resource management.The dark tunnels, abandoned stations, mutant creatures, and psychological horror elements create constant tension throughout the games.
Why Metro Exodus Changed the Formula
Many players searching for Metro games in order eventually discover how different Metro Exodus feels compared to earlier entries.While Metro 2033 and Last Light mainly focus on underground environments, Exodus introduces larger semi-open regions across Russia.The game still keeps the survival-focused identity of the series while giving players much more freedom in exploration and combat approaches.
What About Metro 2039?
Metro 2039 is one of the most discussed future projects connected to the franchise.Although details remain limited, many fans expect Metro 2039 to continue Artyom’s story after the events of Metro Exodus and its DLC expansions.Because Metro Exodus ended with major changes for the characters and the future of humanity, expectations for Metro 2039 are extremely high among fans of the series.4A Games has already confirmed that a new Metro game is in development, which keeps speculation around Metro 2039 very active inside the community metro games in order.
Connection Between Metro and the Books
The Metro games are heavily inspired by Dmitry Glukhovsky’s Metro novels.Metro 2033 especially follows the original book closely, while later games expand the universe with more original storylines and characters.This connection gives the franchise a deeper and more grounded narrative compared to many other post-apocalyptic shooters.
FAQ
Should I play Metro games in release order?
Yes, release order is strongly recommended because the games directly continue the same storyline.
Which Metro game is the best?
Many fans consider Metro Exodus the best overall experience because of its larger scale and improved gameplay systems.
Is Metro a horror game?
The series combines FPS gameplay with strong survival horror and psychological horror elements.
Download Checklist
📥 Download Metro Checklist (Free PDF)
Final Thoughts
The Metro games in order delivers one of the most immersive post-apocalyptic experiences in gaming history. Whether you enjoy survival mechanics, atmospheric storytelling, or horror-focused FPS gameplay, the Metro trilogy remains essential for genre fans.For official information:Official Metro Website
Join the Discussion
Which Metro game is your favorite? Are you excited for the possible arrival of Metro 2039? Share your thoughts in the comments below!