MetroLand Switch Review

MetroLand, developed by Kiloo, the creators of Subway Surfers, brings the adrenaline-pumping world of endless running to consoles, aiming to expand its appeal from mobile screens to a broader gaming audience. While the game’s transition to consoles offers an experience with more polish and enhanced visuals, it also highlights both the strengths and weaknesses of the genre in this new setting.

Right from the start, MetroLand impresses with its vibrant, urban-themed environments. The console version presents bright and fluid graphics that are more refined than their mobile counterpart. Buildings and streets are alive with detail, and the game’s overall color palette pops on larger screens, delivering a visually engaging experience. Character models and animations also seem smoother.

Gameplay-wise, MetroLand retains its classic endless runner mechanics. Players dash through ever-changing metro lines, swiping left and right to avoid obstacles, jumping over barriers, and sliding under some others. The console version does add slight enhancements to controls, making them responsive and intuitive with gamepad support, which feels natural and precise. However, this console adaptation does little to evolve the core gameplay. The basic formula remains unchanged: run, collect coins, and survive as long as possible. While this simplicity is part of the genre’s charm, console players may find themselves wishing for deeper engagement or variety.

The game’s levels are procedurally generated, keeping every session feeling fresh, and there are power-ups like jetpacks and drones to spice things up. One standout feature on consoles is the integration of challenges and missions that provide more structured objectives. These challenges offer a break from the monotony of endless running and motivate players to experiment with different strategies. Yet, even with these objectives, the gameplay can become repetitive over time, especially when compared to other console games that offer richer narratives or more complex mechanics.

On mobile, the game was optimized for quick sessions, perfect for playing in short bursts on commutes or during breaks. The console version tries to replicate this bite-sized fun but struggles slightly in justifying longer play sessions. While the improved graphics and sound design make it appealing, the gameplay loop remains geared toward mobile sensibilities. Console players accustomed to deeper and more intricate gaming experiences might find MetroLand lacking in depth.

Moreover, the game incorporates features like building upgrades and character customization, which add a layer of progression. Collecting coins to unlock new outfits or upgrading the player’s home base feels rewarding, but these elements are not enough to fully compensate for the simplicity of the main gameplay loop. It is a solid effort but does not feel entirely adapted to the expectations of console gamers who may seek more substantial content.

In conclusion, MetroLand for consoles is a well-executed version of a beloved mobile game. It shines in its presentation and accessibility, providing fast-paced gameplay that can be enjoyed by players of all skill levels. However, it falls short of becoming a standout title in the endless runner genre. Fans of Subway Surfers or other endless runners will likely appreciate this polished console version, but those seeking a more engaging or innovative experience may find MetroLand a fun, yet ultimately shallow, offering.

The review code was provided by the publisher