Metro 2033 Redux
" Immersive action survival horror with tense atmosphere and stealth depth but dated graphics and clunky controls "
Metro 2033 Redux Review
Metro 2033 Redux is widely praised as a gripping, atmospheric survival shooter set in a post-apocalyptic Moscow metro system. Players appreciate its immersive world-building, tense gameplay that blends stealth and survival mechanics, and a haunting narrative that complements the bleak environment. The Redux edition improves visuals, performance, and gameplay polish, keeping the experience fresh even years after its original release. The game’s resource management and gunplay mechanics add depth to the survival horror experience, with many players highlighting the variety and feel of weapons.
However, some criticisms include the story being perceived as flat or less engaging compared to the novels it’s based on, occasional clunky controls, and dated facial animations. Hardcore difficulty modes can restrict gameplay options due to HUD removal. Localization quality and rare bugs or crashes were also noted. Despite these issues, the game remains a must-play for fans of atmospheric shooters and post-apocalyptic narratives, especially when purchased at a discount.
Highlights
Players praise the exceptional atmosphere and immersive world-building, which effectively convey desperation and tension. The sound design and audio ambiance are frequently noted as top-tier, enhancing immersion. The gunplay mechanics are regarded as solid and responsive, with a variety of weapons adding strategic depth. Visuals, while somewhat dated, still impress due to consistent art style and detailed environments. The resource economy balances tension without frustrating fail states. Lastly, the game’s survival and stealth elements create intense, high-stakes encounters that players find engaging.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include a storyline that some find flat or less compelling than the source novels. The controls and animations feel clunky or outdated in parts, impacting gameplay fluidity. The hardcore difficulty mode removes the HUD, which limits gameplay options and can frustrate players. Some players report localization issues and translation errors, especially in Ukrainian. Occasional bugs, crashes, and glitches were mentioned, though not game-breaking. Additionally, the linearity of the game and forced stealth segments were noted as potential drawbacks for some players.
Pros
- • Immersive atmosphere creates a tense, believable post-apocalyptic world.
- • Sound design and voice acting enhance the survival horror experience.
- • Resource management balances challenge without frustrating fail states.
- • Varied and satisfying gunplay with unique weapon mechanics.
- • Redux edition improves graphics and game performance noticeably.
- • Engaging stealth and survival gameplay mechanics add depth.
- • Characters are well-characterized despite limited screen time.
Cons
- • Storyline is considered flat and less rich than the original novels.
- • Clunky controls and outdated facial animations affect immersion.
- • Hardcore difficulty removes HUD, limiting gameplay and causing frustration.
- • Localization quality, especially Ukrainian, is poor with many errors.
- • Occasional crashes and bugs disrupt gameplay for some players.
- • Linear level design limits exploration and player freedom.
- • Stealth sections can feel forced and restrictive to gameplay pacing.
Rating Criteria
In 2013 the world was devastated by an apocalyptic event, annihilating almost all mankind and turning the Earth's surface into a poisonous wasteland. A handful of survivors took refuge in the depths of the Moscow underground, and human civilization entered a new Dark Age. The year is 2033.