S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl on PS5 Could Be the Best Way to Play

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The release of STALKER 2 has been challenging for GSC Game World, with several delays and a rocky start. Despite this, the developers have successfully delivered a game that lives up to the standards of the beloved STALKER series, offering an experience that feels true to its origins.

As STALKER 2 approaches its one-year anniversary, it’s gaining momentum with its upcoming release on PlayStation 5 and PS5 Pro. Developers at GSC Game World are leveraging the PS5’s advanced features, including the DualSense controller, and have planned updates that promise to deliver an immersive and compelling single-player experience – potentially making this the best installment in the series yet.

The PlayStation 5 version of STALKER 2 could be the best way to play, judging by how well the game runs on other top-performing titles. But what makes playing on PS5 different? Let’s take a closer look!

A Potent Platform

Let’s start with the PlayStation 5. Since its release in 2020, Sony’s latest console has become known for delivering incredibly immersive gaming experiences. It can display games in stunning 4K resolution, or run them with a remarkably smooth 60 frames per second.

This capability alone has empowered skilled developers to create games far more expansive and detailed than anything possible on the PS4, giving the PS5 a significant advantage over other consoles. The PS5 Pro then took things further, balancing visual quality and speed so players could enjoy games in sharp 4K resolution with consistently smooth performance.

The PS5 has significantly improved many games, especially with enhanced versions from skilled developers that showcase the console’s impressive capabilities. However, the console is just one piece of the puzzle – the DualSense controller is also key to Sony’s vision for the future of gaming.

The DualSense controller really pulls players into games thanks to its impressive features. These include realistic vibrations, responsive triggers, a useful touchpad, precise motion sensing, good sound quality, and a comfortable feel. It’s a great choice for gamers who want a truly immersive experience.

The PS5 Pro’s real-time upscaling technology and ability to deliver high-resolution, ray-traced graphics make it a compelling choice for game developers. These features help create immersive worlds that keep players engaged for extended periods, making the PS5 and PS5 Pro an attractive platform for ambitious game projects.


 

Many games have successfully leveraged console capabilities, and STALKER 2 on the PS5 has the potential to really shine. GSC Game World is aiming to make this version special, taking full advantage of the console’s power. So, what exactly are they doing to create a unique experience?

Familiar But Fresh

If you missed the announcement trailer for STALKER 2 on PS5, it showcases how the game will take full advantage of the DualSense controller’s features. The trailer includes a clever moment where the game seems to acknowledge the player directly. The developers at GSC Game World are really focusing on making the experience of exploring the game world unique and different on PlayStation 5 compared to other platforms.

I’ve been hearing a lot about how much effort the team at GSC Game World put into making the weapons feel amazing in the game. Apparently, during Gamescom 2025, they were really excited to talk about how their weapon experts used the controller’s special features – like the adaptive triggers – to make each weapon feel totally unique and different from everything else you’ll find in the Zone. It sounds like they really focused on making sure every gun feels powerful and distinct!

Each gun in the game will feel unique when you fire it, making the experience more realistic. Plus, STALKER 2 features a lot of in-game conversations. Now, those conversations will come through the controller’s built-in speaker, which is a cool addition.

As a huge STALKER fan, I was really impressed with how the PS5 version uses the DualSense controller. The Zone has so much different terrain, and GSC really took advantage of that! You can feel the difference under your feet – the controller vibrates in unique ways depending on whether you’re walking on dirt, metal, or something else. It doesn’t sound like a huge deal when you read about it, but actually playing on PS5 feels totally different and more immersive than on Xbox or PC. It really pulls you into the world!

In a Tech Radar Gaming interview, Technical Producer Evgeniy Kulik explained that the team meticulously considered each weapon in the game, particularly the Gauss Rifle. They focused on creating a realistic trigger feel and are prioritizing digital features designed to be truly immersive, even to the touch.

Beyond DualSense integration, the upcoming PS5 version of STALKER 2 will also include all major game updates and a visual upgrade thanks to an updated Unreal Engine. This should significantly enhance the game’s graphics, making it look fantastic on both the PS5 and especially the PS5 Pro, potentially creating a truly immersive and captivating experience in The Zone.

The PS5 Pro could dramatically improve the game’s visuals. Although the developers haven’t shared specific plans yet, it’s likely they’ll offer a ‘Pro’ mode that combines realistic ray tracing with smooth framerates. Players who prioritize detail might also get a high-quality mode with incredibly sharp resolution, letting them fully appreciate the beautiful environments in The Zone.

Beyond the extras already planned for deluxe versions on PlayStation, the game might receive even more new content. It’s clear that STALKER 2 will be a significant experience for PlayStation players, as the developers are really focusing on features that make it special on the platform.

This is a clever move that lets the studio keep a game they’ve invested a lot of time and effort into relevant for longer. It also gives them the chance to refine a game they’re passionate about, and have consistently supported throughout its development and challenging launch.

As a huge fan, I’m really hoping the PS5 version of STALKER 2 delivers. It feels like this game could be the peak of a comeback for a series I absolutely love – it’s easily one of my favorites in recent gaming history!

New Ways To Play A Familiar Tune

If you’ve enjoyed STALKER 2 on PC or Xbox and are thinking of playing it on PlayStation, you’re in for a treat next month. While the core game is the same, GSC Game World has added special features just for PlayStation that will make it feel like a fresh experience. This focus on console-exclusive features is one of the new version’s biggest strengths.

We’re thrilled to be playing the incredibly engaging gameplay again, now on a new platform. Plus, the latest version of STALKER 2 looks fantastic! Now we just need to wait for the official launch!

Please be aware that the opinions shared in this article are solely those of the author and do not reflect the official stance of GamingBolt.

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2025-10-29 19:14