In Stalker 2: Heart of Chernobyl, the game’s setting presents a dramatic landscape filled with grotesque creatures, perplexing abnormalities, and individuals struggling to exist amidst it all for various reasons – some straightforward, while many others remain enigmas even to them. Each character has their unique purpose within The Zone.
Despite its frequent respawning characters, disappearing enemies, glitches, and technical issues that are characteristic of ‘eurojank’ games, Stalker 2 stands out as a highly ambitious project with moments of true brilliance that captivate a specific audience. This audience is willing to overlook, or even appreciate, the game’s flaws when they contribute to an immersive survival sandbox atmosphere. It is not surprising that Stalker 2 has found popularity in its native country, and the series has traditionally had a strong fanbase in Eastern Europe. However, I must admit that I did not anticipate Stalker 2 would appeal to Japanese octogenarians who are presidents of adult-themed game studios.
As a dedicated admirer, I can’t help but express my enthusiasm for GSC Game World’s Stalker 2 – a remarkable survival game, though it’s not without its challenges. While some enthusiasts work tirelessly to mend the game’s troubled A-Life simulation, an equally passionate group is diving headfirst into revamping its Factions.
There’s a situation where you find common ground between a Manhattan socialite and a stalker, and it’s when both of them struggle with that very familiar dilemma: the indecision over what to wear while everyone else is already waiting for them.
In Stalker 2, there are numerous brain-teasers scattered throughout the game, though they aren’t simple to solve. However, solving these puzzles can yield some exceptionally valuable benefits, such as unlocking the Lisovyi door.
In Stalker 2, regardless if you’re navigating a perilous minefield of mysteries guided by your device, or seeking refuge in a bombed-out Soviet installation, it skillfully rekindles the raw, adrenaline-fueled feeling of survival that the original trilogy achieved so masterfully.