Metro 2033 is based on Russian novelist Dmitry Glukhovsky’s book about post-apocalyptic Russia, whereby the survivor’s of a devastating bomb blast have taken refuge in the metro stations of Moscow. Unfortunately, some really nasty creatures have emerged from the irradiated shadows and terrorized the underground, as well as the surface. Players take control of Artyom, who has to embark on a journey through the metro tunnels and above ground in order to scavenge resources and save his world from the dangers that lurk above and below. The story is a definite high-point of the game, and a lot of twists and turns will keep you guessing throughout the mysterious narrative.

Although Metro 2033 appears as a conventional FPS, there are a lot of different elements to the gameplay. For one, the game takes on a more survival-horror approach, whereby ammo is scarce and enemies leap out from anywhere. Thankfully, the player has some awesome weapons to use up that very limited ammo. Pistols, shotguns, machine-guns, knives and bombs can all be used, as well as different upgrades and versions of the guns, adding some variety and strengths to the weaponry. Upgrades can be bought by using military-grade ammo, which is different from your standard ammo. The military-grade rounds must either be kept in order to purchase some much needed firepower, or loaded into your gun to add an extra punch to your shots.

Set in the dark tunnels of Moscow, light plays in important role in the gameplay of Metro 2033. A twist on the conventional gameplay mechanics require the player to manually charge up their torch, as well as use and maintain their gasmasks where appropriate. There are also pressure-powered weapons that need to be pumped up, which adds a whole new element to the way you play.

The entire setting, surroundings and environments of Metro 2033 are nothing short of phenomenal. It’s incredibly atmospheric, and the whole world that has been created and integrated into the game shines as its main attraction. The graphics are impressive and lighting is used brilliantly throughout the game. There are some AI and animation bugs; however Metro still manages to please technically.

Metro 2033 is definitely a surprise coming into an already impressive 2010. The gameplay, visuals and mechanics are solid, and although there are some slight creases that need to be ironed out, Metro 2033 offers a frightening and unique experience like no other.

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