How Stalker 2’s Developers Persevered As Russia’s Invasion Of Ukraine Began

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In a stark turn of events, GSC Game World faced harder trials than most game studios or individuals typically encounter during the creation of Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl. Initially envisioned as a rejuvenation of a beloved FPS franchise, its development evolved into a symbol of resistance against an unscrupulous aggressor in 2022. On February 24, Russia falsely claimed pretexts for launching a comprehensive invasion of Ukraine, endangering the lives of hundreds of game developers and their families. Approximately 200 employees relocated to Prague, establishing a new base, but an astounding number opted to remain in Kyiv – around 230.

Despite not experiencing major battles since the initial phase of the conflict, this city has endured repeated assaults through drone attacks, missiles, and airstrikes. The team at GSC Game World has diverse reasons for remaining, but their resilience echoes that of Ukraine – Russia’s attempts to advance on the capital were halted early in the invasion, and Ukraine has persisted in fighting back for over three years now.

Maksym Hnatkov, the narrative designer, expressed to us during our TopMob Insider documentary on Stalker 2’s development: “I find it hard to depart. I can’t bear my own conscience if I do.” He added, “At that moment in time, I was enraged and upset. Quitting wasn’t an option, and staying didn’t seem terrifying.

People who stayed put continued working diligently on a project they started prior to the invasion, despite the fact that Russian motorized military units were observed destroying neighborhoods, executing captured Ukrainian soldiers in disregard for international law, and indiscriminately killing innocent civilians throughout this period.

For certain individuals who opted to leave, ultimately reaching Prague via Budapest, the initial stages of the war – when the Donetsk region was initially seized by pro-Russian separatists in 2014 – significantly influenced their choice. Lead community manager Yevhen Bazarov recalls the turmoil in the area during this timeframe.

Bazarov pointed out that it’s impractical to exist under these circumstances since everything around us seems to be ablaze. He reminded us of our past error during our stay in Donetsk in 2015, which lasted for three months. We were under the misconception that things would work out fine. However, we ended up living in the heart of the Donetsk conflict for three months, spending most of our time in bomb shelters.

Against all odds, with the team dividing into two parts and encountering numerous hurdles such as a major fire at their new headquarters, GSC Game World managed to release Stalker 2 towards the end of 2024. For a deeper look into the game’s development during that time, check out the entire TopMob Insider episode linked above.

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2025-03-19 19:39