How Well Did Metro Exodus Do?
Metro Exodus achieved a commendable level of success, both critically and commercially, despite facing some initial controversy surrounding its distribution. While precise sales figures remain somewhat fragmented due to the game’s complex release history across different platforms, it is generally agreed that Metro Exodus performed well enough to be considered a commercial success for both 4A Games and Deep Silver. It revitalized the franchise and set a new benchmark for the Metro series.
Critical Reception and Awards
Metro Exodus received largely positive reviews from critics upon its release. Reviewers praised its stunning graphics, immersive atmosphere, engaging story, and improved gameplay mechanics compared to its predecessors. The game was lauded for its non-linear levels, allowing for greater exploration and player choice, a significant departure from the more linear nature of previous Metro titles. Its crafting system and resource management elements also contributed positively to the overall experience.
The game earned several awards and nominations, including:
- Game Critics Awards: Best PC Game
- Golden Joystick Awards: Best Audio
- Visual Effects Society Awards: Outstanding Visual Effects in a Video Game
These accolades indicate that Metro Exodus resonated strongly with critics and was recognized for its technical achievements and artistic merits. This positive reception undoubtedly contributed to its commercial success.
Commercial Performance and Sales
While official sales figures are not entirely transparent, estimations suggest that Metro Exodus sold over 6 million copies across all platforms by late 2020. This figure is likely to have increased since then, considering the game’s continued availability and presence on various digital storefronts.
Several factors contributed to the game’s commercial success:
- Strong brand recognition: The Metro franchise already had a dedicated fanbase established by Metro 2033 and Metro: Last Light.
- Positive word-of-mouth: The favorable reviews and enthusiastic player feedback generated significant interest in the game.
- Post-launch support: 4A Games continued to support Metro Exodus with DLC expansions and patches, enhancing the player experience and encouraging further sales.
However, the game’s commercial performance was also influenced by a controversial decision:
The Epic Games Store Controversy
Shortly before its release, Deep Silver announced that Metro Exodus would be a timed exclusive on the Epic Games Store (EGS) for its PC release. This decision sparked considerable backlash from some PC gamers who preferred Steam. While the exclusivity deal secured better revenue terms for Deep Silver, it also alienated a portion of the potential audience.
Despite the controversy, the EGS exclusivity likely contributed to the game’s overall profitability. Epic Games reportedly offered a substantial guarantee to secure the exclusive rights, offsetting any potential losses from disgruntled Steam users. The game eventually returned to Steam a year later, further boosting its sales.
Legacy and Impact
Metro Exodus is widely regarded as the most ambitious and visually impressive game in the Metro series. It successfully expanded upon the established formula, offering a more open and dynamic world for players to explore. The game’s success has solidified the Metro franchise as a prominent player in the post-apocalyptic shooter genre. It paved the way for future installments, and the positive reception it garnered has likely influenced the direction of upcoming Metro projects. The game also showcased the technical capabilities of 4A Games, enhancing their reputation as a talented and innovative development studio.
Future of the Metro Franchise
The success of Metro Exodus has undoubtedly secured the future of the franchise. 4A Games has confirmed that a new Metro game is in development, although details remain scarce. The next installment is expected to further refine the gameplay mechanics and storytelling elements introduced in Metro Exodus, potentially expanding the world and lore of the Metro universe even further. Given the track record of the series, fans have high expectations for the next chapter in the Metro saga.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
H3 1. What platforms was Metro Exodus released on?
Metro Exodus was released on PC (Epic Games Store initially, then Steam), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Google Stadia.
H3 2. Was Metro Exodus a commercial failure?
No, Metro Exodus was not a commercial failure. Despite the Epic Games Store controversy, it sold well enough to be considered a commercial success.
H3 3. How many copies of Metro Exodus have been sold?
Estimates suggest that Metro Exodus has sold over 6 million copies across all platforms.
H3 4. Why was Metro Exodus exclusive to the Epic Games Store?
Deep Silver chose to make Metro Exodus a timed exclusive on the Epic Games Store due to more favorable revenue terms offered by Epic Games.
H3 5. When did Metro Exodus return to Steam?
Metro Exodus returned to Steam on February 15, 2020, a year after its initial release on the Epic Games Store.
H3 6. What were the critical reception scores for Metro Exodus?
Metro Exodus generally received positive reviews from critics. Scores varied depending on the platform and publication, but the game typically scored in the 75-85% range on review aggregator sites like Metacritic.
H3 7. Did the Epic Games Store exclusivity affect the game’s sales?
While the EGS exclusivity generated controversy, it is believed that the guaranteed revenue from Epic Games offset any potential losses from alienated Steam users. The eventual Steam release further boosted sales.
H3 8. What awards did Metro Exodus win?
Metro Exodus won several awards, including Best PC Game at the Game Critics Awards, Best Audio at the Golden Joystick Awards, and Outstanding Visual Effects in a Video Game at the Visual Effects Society Awards.
H3 9. What are the DLC expansions for Metro Exodus?
Metro Exodus has two main DLC expansions: “The Two Colonels” and “Sam’s Story.”
H3 10. Is Metro Exodus a linear game?
Metro Exodus features a mix of linear and non-linear levels. While some sections follow a more traditional linear structure, others offer open-world environments with greater freedom of exploration. This was a significant departure from the previous Metro games.
H3 11. What is the gameplay like in Metro Exodus?
Metro Exodus combines first-person shooting, stealth, exploration, and survival horror elements. Players must scavenge for resources, craft equipment, and manage their health and ammunition. The game also features a dynamic weather system and a day-night cycle that impacts gameplay.
H3 12. Who developed Metro Exodus?
Metro Exodus was developed by 4A Games.
H3 13. Who published Metro Exodus?
Metro Exodus was published by Deep Silver.
H3 14. Is there a sequel to Metro Exodus planned?
Yes, 4A Games has confirmed that a new Metro game is in development. Details are currently scarce.
H3 15. What is the story of Metro Exodus about?
Metro Exodus follows Artyom and his Spartan Rangers as they leave the Moscow Metro in search of a new life in the East. They travel across post-apocalyptic Russia aboard a heavily modified locomotive called the “Aurora,” encountering new factions, dangerous mutants, and harsh environments along the way. The story explores themes of hope, survival, and the search for a better future.