I played Stalker 2 on PS5. Performance mode is impressive on PS5 Pro, and DualSense is a game changer

by

During the demonstration, I utilized an advanced developer edition of the console, simulating the atmosphere of the PlayStation 5 Pro gaming system. This allowed me to experience a mission set in the swamps, which was from a somewhat later phase of the primary game’s storyline.

Efficiency and exclusive functionality of PS5 edition

In Stalker 2, I found myself darting through the Zone, my adrenaline pumping with the performance mode activated. This feature was designed to maintain a consistent 60 frames per second, and it truly delivered – whether I was deep in combat or trekking through swampy regions, the game ran smoothly without any discernible glitches. What’s more, the game didn’t shy away from visual excellence. Even on a large 4K TV, sitting just inches away, I was impressed by the clarity and sharpness of the graphics. The textures were crisp, never appearing blurry or low-resolution.

The second setting, which focuses on graphic quality, has a point or two I’d like to address more constructively. While the Quality setting does enhance visual aspects, particularly lighting effects, I believe the improvement is minimal when compared to the noticeable frame rate reduction it causes. Given that we’re dealing with a fast-paced game where quick reactions can mean the difference between winning and losing, this trade-off might not be ideal for everyone.

Additionally, in this setting, I encountered a few minor graphical glitches. These could potentially be due to testing an early, pre-release version of the game.

In the latest iteration of Stalker 2, an appealing enhancement was introduced, which involves a unique aspect tailored for the DualSense controller. Let me summarize the key updates in this version:

1. A fresh and improved game environment has been designed to deliver an immersive gaming experience.
2. The character customization options have been expanded, allowing players to create their perfect stalker.
3. New weapons and equipment have been added, increasing the variety of choices available for players.
4. Enhanced artificial intelligence (AI) makes enemies more cunning and unpredictable, creating a more challenging gameplay experience.
5. The storyline has been expanded, with new quests and missions to complete, enriching the overall gaming experience.
6. A dynamic weather system has been implemented, affecting not only the visual aspect but also the game mechanics and player strategy.
7. The audio design has been significantly improved, offering more realistic and atmospheric sounds that contribute to an immersive gaming experience.
8. Lastly, the unique feature related to the DualSense controller adds a new layer of immersion by providing haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, enhancing the overall sensation during gameplay.

  1. adaptive triggers – during shooting, the triggers provide a clear, pleasant resistance simulating the use of a real weapon. Impressions also vary depending on the type of a weapon;
  2. the speaker in the controller – some sounds (such as radio messages) come directly from the controller. I think this feature creates a nice sense of “spaciousness” in the sound, but I know that not everyone in the gaming community likes it;
  3. gyroscope aiming – probably my favorite element of the console port. When you aim, you can adjust your aim slightly by moving the controller. This technique significantly facilitates precise aiming.

Stalker 2 is still being developed

During the presentation, I also had a quick conversation with the developers about the progress of Stalker 2. The game’s launch on Sony’s console is an ongoing part of its development process. By the time the game releases (November 20, 2025), it will have already received a significant update, labeled as version 1.6. Future updates will include an upgrade to Unreal Engine version 5.5.4 and the introduction of an “immersive mode.” The developers also assure us that they’ll continually refine the A-Life system, which controls AI behavior in the game.

The game Stalker 2 has faced a challenging beginning due to its complicated development process and repeated delayed launches, leading to numerous problems in the final version. Yet, by adhering to a meticulous approach for fixing issues and improving the game, as well as considering ambitious endeavors like transitioning to an entirely new platform, I harbor a touch of optimism regarding Stalker’s future. I sincerely hope that GSC Game World will fulfill their pledges, ensuring players across all platforms can experience a more polished game with every update.

Read More

2025-08-28 10:05