Metro Exodus and Last Light: A Deep Dive into the Connection and Lore
Yes, Metro Exodus is unequivocally connected to Metro: Last Light. It serves as a direct sequel, continuing the story from the “Redemption” ending of Last Light, which is considered the canon ending. This connection extends beyond a simple continuation of the narrative; it’s deeply woven into the characters, world, and overarching themes of the Metro universe.
Understanding the Metro Universe
The Metro series is based on the novels by Dmitry Glukhovsky, and while the games take liberties and sometimes diverge from the books, they maintain the core essence of his post-apocalyptic vision of Moscow. To fully appreciate the connection between Exodus and Last Light, it’s important to understand the broader context of the Metro timeline.
The games, in order, are:
- Metro 2033
- Metro: Last Light
- Metro Exodus
Each game builds upon the previous one, expanding the scope of the world and developing the characters further. Exodus, in particular, takes Artyom and his companions out of the claustrophobic confines of the Metro tunnels and into the vast, irradiated landscapes of post-nuclear Russia.
Last Light’s Legacy in Exodus
The events of Last Light directly influence the beginning of Exodus. Artyom’s experiences with the Dark Ones, his moral decisions regarding their fate, and the political intrigue within the Metro itself all set the stage for his disillusionment and eventual departure.
Last Light’s “Redemption” ending sees Artyom choosing to spare the last of the Dark Ones, a decision that reflects his growing understanding of their nature and his rejection of the Metro’s ingrained prejudices. This act of mercy, while significant, leaves Artyom questioning the truth of the world he knows and the motivations of the various factions vying for control of the Metro.
Exodus picks up from this point, with Artyom continuing his search for signs of life outside of Moscow, fueled by the belief that humanity hasn’t been entirely wiped out. This hope, born from the events of Last Light, drives him and his crew to embark on their perilous journey across Russia.
Characters and Relationships
Key characters from Last Light, such as Anna, Miller, and other members of the Spartan Order, play crucial roles in Exodus. The relationships established in Last Light are further developed and tested as the crew faces new challenges and confronts the harsh realities of the outside world.
Anna, Artyom’s wife, is a particularly important link between the two games. Her bond with Artyom is strengthened by their shared experiences in Last Light, and her role as a sniper and key member of the Aurora’s crew is vital to their survival.
Miller, the stern but ultimately compassionate leader of the Spartan Order, continues to be a mentor figure to Artyom in Exodus. His dedication to the Order and his commitment to protecting his people are central to the game’s narrative.
Themes and Motifs
Many of the themes explored in Last Light, such as redemption, hope, and the search for truth, are carried over into Exodus. The games grapple with the moral complexities of a post-apocalyptic world, forcing players to make difficult choices that have lasting consequences.
The motif of hope is particularly prevalent in both games. Despite the bleakness of their surroundings, Artyom and his companions cling to the belief that a better future is possible, even if it means venturing into the unknown.
The Games Learning Society explores how games can foster critical thinking and empathy, themes that resonate deeply within the Metro series. The moral choices players face in these games can lead to profound reflections on their own values and beliefs. Check out more at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Understanding the Story Arc
Exodus benefits from playing Last Light, as you’ll have context around Artyom’s motivations, his relationship with Anna and other characters, and his past experiences. You will have a better understanding of the history that shapes his decisions.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into the Metro Connection
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the connection between Metro Exodus and Metro: Last Light:
1. Is Metro Exodus a direct sequel to Metro: Last Light?
Yes, Metro Exodus is a direct sequel to the “Redemption” (good) ending of Metro: Last Light. The story continues directly from the events of that ending.
2. Do I need to play Metro: Last Light before Metro Exodus?
While not strictly necessary, playing Metro: Last Light significantly enhances the experience of Metro Exodus. You’ll have a deeper understanding of the characters, their relationships, and the events that lead to their departure from Moscow.
3. Which ending of Metro: Last Light is canon for Metro Exodus?
The “Redemption” ending of Metro: Last Light is considered canon for Metro Exodus. In this ending, Artyom chooses to spare the last of the Dark Ones.
4. Does Metro Exodus reference events from Metro: Last Light?
Yes, Metro Exodus makes numerous references to events and characters from Metro: Last Light. Conversations, flashbacks, and environmental details all serve as reminders of the past.
5. Are the Dark Ones present in Metro Exodus?
While not as prominent as in Metro 2033 and Metro: Last Light, the Dark Ones still have a presence in Metro Exodus, albeit in a more subtle way. They represent Artyom’s past and his evolving understanding of the world.
6. How does Anna’s character connect Metro: Last Light and Metro Exodus?
Anna is a key connecting character. Her relationship with Artyom, which develops significantly in Last Light, is central to the story of Exodus. She remains a constant companion and confidante throughout their journey.
7. What happened to the other Spartan Rangers from Metro: Last Light in Exodus?
Many of the Spartan Rangers who fought alongside Artyom in Last Light also accompany him on the Aurora in Exodus. Their experiences in the Metro have shaped them, and they continue to serve as loyal companions.
8. Is the political situation in the Metro important to understanding Metro Exodus?
While Metro Exodus focuses on the journey outside of Moscow, the political climate within the Metro established in Last Light is relevant. Artyom’s disillusionment with the Metro’s factions is a major motivation for his departure.
9. Does Metro Exodus follow the Metro 2035 book after Last Light?
Metro Exodus is a sequel to both Metro: Last Light and the book Metro 2035, incorporating elements from both narratives.
10. How long after Last Light does Metro Exodus take place?
Metro Exodus is set in 2036, a year after the events of the Metro 2035 book.
11. Is Artyom still mute in Metro Exodus?
Artyom remains largely silent in Metro Exodus, with his thoughts and feelings primarily conveyed through narration.
12. Does Metro Exodus explain what happened to the Tower from Metro: Last Light?
The Tower, a significant location in Metro: Last Light, is not directly addressed in Metro Exodus. The focus shifts to the world outside of Moscow.
13. Are there any returning factions from Metro: Last Light in Metro Exodus?
While the specific factions from Metro: Last Light aren’t explicitly present in Exodus, the themes of authoritarianism, ideological conflict, and the struggle for survival continue to be explored through the various groups encountered on the journey.
14. How does the gameplay of Metro Exodus reflect the events of Last Light?
The gameplay of Metro Exodus emphasizes exploration, resource management, and stealth, reflecting the challenges and hardships faced by Artyom and his companions in both Last Light and their new journey. The moral choices also highlight the past events.
15. Will the upcoming Metro game continue the story from Metro Exodus?
While details are scarce, it is heavily expected that the new Metro game will serve as a sequel that continues and builds upon the events of Metro Exodus. The fate of Artyom, Anna, and the other Spartans in their new home is sure to be explored.
Conclusion
In summary, Metro Exodus is intrinsically linked to Metro: Last Light, serving as a direct continuation of its narrative and themes. While it’s possible to enjoy Exodus without playing Last Light, doing so will significantly enhance your appreciation for the characters, the world, and the overarching story of the Metro series. The decisions you make and the challenges you overcome as Artyom in Last Light directly influence his journey and his motivation for taking on the vast unknown of a post-apocalyptic Russia. By playing Last Light first, you’ll have a richer, more rewarding experience with Metro Exodus.