After a long and tumultuous development journey, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl has finally launched on PC and Xbox Series X/S. Developed by GSC Game World, the game’s release marks the culmination of over seven years of work, overcoming numerous challenges including the pandemic, relocations, cyberattacks, a fire in their Prague office, and most notably, the ongoing war in Ukraine—the developers’ homeland..
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl launch trailer
Available now on multiple platforms
Players can now purchase S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl on PC via Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG, as well as on Xbox Series X/S through the Microsoft Store. Additionally, the game is available from day one for Game Pass subscribers, allowing a wider audience to delve into the hauntingly immersive world of the Zone.
A return to the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone
Set in a fictional version of the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone, Heart of Chornobyl imagines a second nuclear disaster occurring in 2006, transforming the area into a perilous landscape filled with mutated creatures, lethal radiation, and bizarre anomalous energies. Players step into the role of Skif, a lone stalker drawn into the Zone after unforeseen events. As Skif, you’ll navigate this treacherous environment, uncovering secrets, engaging with various factions, and making choices that will impact the outcome of the non-linear story.
With over three hours of scripted cutscenes, your decisions shape the epic tale. Utilising Unreal Engine 5, photogrammetry technology, and insights from the developers’ regular visits to the real Chornobyl Exclusion Zone, the game delivers an unparalleled level of authenticity and atmosphere that fans of the series have come to expect.
A message from the CEO
“It feels utterly surreal to say that, but after more than 7 years in the making, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 [Heart of Chornobyl] is now released. That’s totally wild. So was the whole development story.”
“What started as the most ambitious game by GSC eventually turned out to be an ultimate personal challenge. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 was always supposed to be a truly Ukrainian product, showing our culture to the world in the ongoing effort of the nation to be recognised. I truly believe the team we have consists of exceptional people, but I never actually thought they would be finishing the game under circumstances like these.”
“Despite all the odds, it’s there. Our biggest game, our own story, our love letter to Ukraine. All the time, effort and passion we put into this is about to be witnessed by players from all around the globe. After 15 years, the doors to the Zone will be opened once again,” says Ievgen Grygorovych, CEO and Game Director.
Documentary: War Game – The Making of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2
Heart of Chornobyl’s development amidst the backdrop of the Russian aggression towards Ukraine is captured in the full-length documentary “War Game: The Making of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2”, created in collaboration with Xbox. This poignant film offers deep insights into the challenges faced by the team and is highly recommended viewing before diving into the game to fully appreciate the context and the dedication behind its creation.
Supporting Ukraine
As the war in Ukraine continues, GSC Game World has been actively supporting their home country in every possible way. For those who wish to contribute, they recommend donating to the official charity fund of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy: United24
Final thoughts
The release of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is not just a significant moment for gaming enthusiasts but also a testament to the resilience and passion of its Ukrainian developers. It’s an invitation to step back into the eerie and compelling world of the Zone, a place where every decision matters and where the line between survival and demise is razor-thin.
Prepare yourself for an intense journey filled with mystery, danger, and profound storytelling. The Zone awaits.
For even more gaming news, click right here.