4A Games overcame major hurdles to make Metro: Last Light, Rubin says

Metro: Last Light developer 4A Games overcame a series of seemingly unbelievable trials and tribulations to see the game through, according to former THQ president Jason Rubin.

In a report on Games Industry, Rubin stated the Ukrainian-based studio should be recognized for more than just its "creativity behind the ever frightening, dark, post apocalyptic environment" of Metro: Last Light. It needs to be credited for somehow getting past several unfortunate and unrealistic hurdles during the game’s development as well.

[The budget for Last Light was] less than some of its competitors spend on cut scenes,” Rubin claimed.

He described staff numbers and office space as significantly smaller than typical for most AAA games, adding that the issues were only compounded by crucial deadlines that had to be made at all costs.

"[Team members] sat on folding wedding chairs, literally elbow to elbow at card tables in what looks more like a packed grade school cafeteria than a development studio."

"All developers have deadlines, but I know of few that had to bring in construction generators to be able to work the weekend before final submission because an extra day meant missing shelf dates by weeks.”

Rubin likened 4A’s perseverance through it all to an underdog in a sporting competition.

Let’s be honest: 4A was never playing on a level field… If you care about the art of making games then you have to care about more than the final product. The struggle and the journey becomes part of the story. Like sport, you cheer when the underdog comes from behind, and triumphs in the face of incredible odds."

Following THQ’s liquidation, Deep Silver picked up publishing rights for Metro: Last Light. A representative told Polygon the company plans to issue a statement regarding Rubin’s claims once it receives input from 4A Games.