IF the original Metro 2033 game was influenced by survival horrors and the sequel Last Light was more of an action shooter then new adventure Exodus borrows from open world titles.

Originally adapted from Russian author Dmitry Glukhovsky’s novels, the story is set in Moscow where the last survivors band together after a nuclear war. The three games have kept the series fresh with slightly different gameplay styles but the things that bind them together are the post apocalyptic theme and the gritty combat which sees you in a desperate scrabble for resources and ammo to survive.

Exodus continues the story and ideally you should play 2033 and Last Light but it is not essential.

From an aesthetic point of view, fans of Fallout will feel right at home and there are also similarities to the Half-Life series where the story all unfolds in the game rather than in cutscenes. Exodus also particularly opens up the game’s world thanks to a twist which suggests there could be life outside of the claustrophobic tunnels of the Metro. You again play as Artyom who boards a train called Aurora in search of other survivors and opportunities, stopping along the way to complete missions and side quests in big spaces that beg to be explored. This provides a number of diverse settings as well as numerous encounters with everyone from cannibals to a technology-fearing religious cult.

Combat is particularly grisly where you can opt for either stealth or shoot outs where every bullet counts. And from the troubling gurgle of the Geiger counter to the patter of hard rain or straining creak of deteriorating walkways, the sound effects are excellent.

The only thing that lets Exodus down slightly is the unbearable loading screen when you start the game. You might as well stick the kettle on and make a brew while you wait because it takes that long.

There is also the odd glitch in the graphics here and there.

But Metro’s return is as immersive as ever with additions to the game’s world which really broaden the experience. Welcome to the wasteland.

RATING: 8/10

DAVID MORGAN