STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl Review – Zone, How Much We Have Missed You!

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The Stalker series is one that hooks you in deeply and doesn’t easily let go. Long after you’ve finished playing, images of the ominous yet captivating ‘Zone’, along with the thrilling adventures within it, linger in your mind. Though none of the games – Shadow of Chernobyl, Clear Sky, or Call of Pripyat – were seen as gaming’s savior, they still offered a unique and immersive experience that made revisiting this ‘last artifact hunt’ a joy. Furthermore, an enthusiastic community continues to produce new mods, literature, LARPs, and analyses about specific aspects of the Zone, keeping the series alive and intriguing.

Fans rejoiced when Stalker 2 was first announced in 2010, looking forward to exploring once more the intriguing world crafted by GSC Game World. But as swiftly as the announcement arrived, the enthusiasm of stalkers everywhere seemed to fade. One problem after another arose for the studio, eventually causing news about Stalker 2 to fall silent for several years.

Until next time! The second announcement about the continuation of the post-apocalyptic hit from 2018 has sparked excitement once more, and finally, the release date – one I’ve been looking forward to as a longtime fan of the series – is here.

To clarify, I have two queries: Who exactly is this game designed for? Is there anything for seasoned series veterans in this title? On the other hand, would a novice stalker enjoy exploring the Zone and find entertainment within it? Let’s delve into these points.

Game difficulty – how to start, Stalker?

At the outset, we select the default challenge setting. Here are the three choices available: Rookie (for those who just want the story), Intermediate (Stalker), or Advanced (Veteran).

In this game, the storyline and battles are interconnected. As the difficulty level increases, encounters become progressively harder, necessitating strategic moves like hiding or sneaking. We inflict more damage but also take more, with crucial moments often boiling down to precise shots that could mean life or death for both us and our humanoid adversaries. Planning for the expedition becomes increasingly significant at higher levels. A poorly timed reload on “Veteran” can lead to swift defeat, whereas such mistakes might be overlooked at lower levels like “Rookie” or “Stalker.” Additionally, a careless Veteran is easily overwhelmed by anomalies.

For which difficulty setting would be ideal? I strongly suggest the “Veteran” mode for long-time enthusiasts of the series as it offers a tough yet familiar experience. The adversaries are robust and persistent, requiring strategic thinking rather than brute force.

Newcomers might find the “Stalker” mode intriguing, as it offers a blend of storyline and combat that helps players grasp the Zone’s rules. Don’t be intimidated by its level of challenge; instead, approach with a thoughtful and alert mindset. This means being cautious, vigilant, and ready to adapt to this unique game world.

It’s important to mention that the developers suggest choosing the “Stalker” difficulty level for newcomers. While “Rookie” (Story) mode gives you an introduction to the world in controlled circumstances, it only scratches the surface of its full potential. The struggle for survival is a key element throughout the series, so the tougher difficulty setting offers a more authentic experience.

Game Premise – what happened to you, Stalker?

We kick off “Stalker 2” by experiencing… a blast. Inside the residence of our protagonist, Skif, a blast occurs that leaves half of the apartment in ruins. Amidst this chaotic scene, there’s an odd, pulsating item – an artifact – that will be our constant companion throughout our journey.

In a series of scenes, the game gradually reveals the powerful and stunning landscape of the Zone, where an intense red storm swirls above the power plant – extremely hazardous for those caught within it. The radio broadcast we overhear offers insights into the scientific and political perspectives on the Zone, as well as details about the incident that involved us. What steps did we take following such an event? We chose to delve deeper into the enigmatic artifact found in this area filled with them.

Accompanied by our friend Hermann, who doubles as our driver, we are en route to the boundary dividing the Zone from the outside world. Since military activities have sealed off the region with a security perimeter, we’re forced to infiltrate it stealthily due to lack of other options. Hermann firmly believes that the artifact we’ve brought along is exceptional and its mysteries will unravel once we properly charge it with energy.

Armed with a scanner, an artifact, essential survival gear, and a leap over the fence, we embark on the authentic part of our adventure.

New players embarking on their journey with Stalker might ponder: “Is it often the case that we have more questions than answers?” Indeed, this query usually finds a yes in this game world. Following the traditional pattern established in prior versions, we’re given minimal information, and we must make do with what we have. Our character learns alongside us, frequently uncovering not only his own identity but also the hidden truths behind objects or missions he encounters. Much like Skif, our protagonist is in the dark about his mission, just as the main characters of previous installments – Major Degtyarov (Call of Pripyat) probing the helicopter crash mystery, Scar (Clear Sky) investigating pollution sources, or the Marked One (Shadow of Chernobyl) attempting to fulfill his mission as detailed on his PDA.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that Skif often acknowledges his minimal involvement in stalker activities beyond occasionally peddling what he calls “dummy items,” which are essentially depleted artifacts taken from the Zone. His military background and weaponry protect him from persecution, but little else, as the Zone is a distant memory for him. This friendly approach towards newcomers makes them feel less isolated in their exploration of the Zone – they share the same novice status as Skif. It’s natural to ask questions and not know everything about anomalies or mutants, as many here view you as a newbie.

For veterans of the series, it’s much like past games – another ordinary day in the Zone, where it summons you whenever it sees fit, neither too soon nor too late. Personally, I believe that despite my prior experience, the game still has the potential to catch me off guard, introducing fresh anomalies or adversaries.

Additionally, it’s important to note that the game starts with a tutorial which covers essential aspects like controls, stealth techniques, and how to avoid abnormalities. These instructions are all conveniently accessible through our PDA in the “Tutorial” section if we need to revisit them later. As the game progresses, guidance from characters like Hermann or other NPCs helps navigate us to new locations, introducing fresh challenges that gradually ready us for the expansive world of Stalker. In this journey, we encounter our first mutants and learn about gathering artifacts from abnormalities, as well as the significance of shooting and escaping for survival.

At this particular juncture, it is highly unlikely that the veterans will find themselves feeling bored. To put it simply: during the initial learning phase, we encounter familiar faces, which might appear peculiar for a tutorial setting. However, these characters serve a dual purpose – they evoke a sense of nostalgia in seasoned players while providing an effective learning experience for novice stalkers.

World and story – the most dangerous gem of the world, Stalker!

Without a doubt, one of the most compelling aspects of the Stalker series lies in the intricately crafted worlds it presents. For years, GSC Game World has meticulously built “The Zone”, making it an irresistible destination for exploration, teeming with captivating characters and narratives. This quality is evidently carried over into Stalker 2, as it maintains the legacy established by its predecessors.

Initially stepping into this Zone, immediately following a leap over the barrier, reveals both its awe-inspiring perilousness and charm. The breathtaking nightscapes, auroras, and the moon cast a spell on you. Yet, it’s crucial to be cautious, as it’s uncertain when encounters with mutants or outlaws might occur. Similarly, while examining abnormalities, appreciate them, admire them, but maintain a safe distance. A stalker in the initial location left an indelible impression on me as he stood on the bridge, scanning the landscape through binoculars under the setting sun. This sensation of breathtaking beauty amidst danger is likely to linger for those who embark on Stalker 2.

For newcomers, be prepared for a gritty, distinctly Slavic environment in Stalker 2. You’ll encounter dilapidated homes, factories, forests, and even bus stops while traversing roads, which bear a striking resemblance to Eastern Europe. The insides of buildings might feel eerily familiar to players from these regions, as if they were exploring remnants of their grandparents’ houses where they spent their holidays. There’s a profound nostalgia here, and perhaps it drives the urge to explore similar locations in real life. GSC Game World has skillfully blended the familiar with the surreal, creating a world that mirrors reality but is subtly changed by the Zone’s events. Intriguingly, many of the game’s locations have real-world counterparts!

In the world of Stalker, I’ve emphasized its beauty is tinged with danger numerous times. While it’s easy to be captivated by the Zone’s aesthetic charm, it’s crucial not to overlook the hazards lurking in the form of mutants or anomalies. Interestingly, each of these threats has a distinct character and many are unforgettable, particularly the mutant creatures. Their terrifying abilities aren’t the only thing that makes them alarming; their chilling appearances can strike fear as well. For instance, stumbling upon a Leech in the dark recesses of a building – a common occurrence in this game – is sure to induce a heart attack!

In the game Stalker 2, the value of human connections within the Zone, an otherworldly realm with unique regulations, is heavily underscored. The recurring theme is that we should prioritize our own well-being and no one will come to Skif’s aid if he encounters trouble. However, our heroic acts of helping a wounded stalker during conflict are seldom rewarded more than a grateful nod from the person rescued, and these altruistic actions may even cost us a first aid kit or put us in harm’s way. The potential consequences—death or loss of precious ammunition—make one ponder if it’s wise to act at all. Perhaps it would be safer to feign ignorance when gunfire is heard?

Occasionally, Skif responds to such events and can share his thoughts and opinions on them. For instance, consider a scene in the initial zone of the game where we hear gunfire and discover a farm. Suddenly, a horde of dangerous, mutated pigs attack from beyond a fallen stalker’s body. Following the battle, Skif interacts with the remaining survivor, who admittedly shut the door on his fallen comrade during the assault. The survivor justified his actions by calling the deceased a fool and stating that he was wise not to open it for him. Skif has the choice to scold the stalker, which angers him or acknowledge that survival is paramount. As one of the game’s characters puts it: “The greatest threat in the Zone isn’t mutants, but other humans.

In Stalker 2, the game emphasizes the bond between newcomers in the Zone, which is evident during downtime in stalker villages like Zalissya. Here, they swap tales, reminisce about shared experiences, and even strum guitars or crack jokes to ease their tension. Moreover, missions to locate lost stalkers are fueled more by concern than just profit motives. Many of them pay tribute to their fallen comrades by placing makeshift grave markers in their memory. This unique sense of community is a remarkable aspect of Stalker 2, drawing players back to this world to delve deeper into its heavy, melancholic atmosphere.

Stalker 2 effectively evokes these emotions, even if many of these situations aren’t directly linked to the game’s missions but are simply a supplement on our journey.

Game Mechanics – keep your weapon checked, Stalker!

In the game “Stalker 2“, careful and thoughtful exploration is highly rewarded. Players who prioritize speedy shooting and reckless charging might find themselves swiftly outmaneuvered by the Zone. Interestingly, a pack of dogs could overpower an over-equipped stalker, if he allows them to encircle him, and a hasty retreat could lead to a fatal fall into an anomaly. Regardless of the chosen difficulty setting, “Stalker 2” is designed for those who are open to heeding advice from fellow stalkers and understanding that the Zone is a treacherous environment that requires respect. Immersion in the game certainly enhances survival chances.

Our hero must ensure he’s well-prepared, carrying suitable clothing, weapons, provisions of food and medicine. We should be mindful not to burden him excessively, as extra weight slows him down and exhaustion sets in quicker. Consequently, challenging dilemmas emerge: “Should I carry fewer bullets or medications?”, “Is that particular weapon truly necessary?”, “What if I come across artifacts but lack storage space?” This gameplay style necessitates a survival mentality.

Here, we refer to “stashes” as hidden caches. Your character possesses a private cache in the locations where stalkers rest, but you can also seize other stalkers’ caches in the wilderness. We discover these by conducting searches on their bodies and personal devices.

Apart from gathering missions on the specified PDA device, we also scrutinize maps or notes with it. It’s advisable to check it only when absolutely certain of safety, as the game continues even while you’re examining the tablet. Additionally, prolonged exposure to the PDA’s bright light during nighttime can temporarily affect your vision, requiring a brief adjustment period to darkness.

As an avid fan, I can’t help but marvel at the crown jewel of mechanics in Stalker, which remains artifact hunting. We don’t just gather these relics for resale, but also to enhance our adventures. Some of them shield us from harm or boost our vitality, yet they may also expose us to radiation.

In the eagerly anticipated “Stalker 2”, I’ll have the opportunity to delve deeper into the intricate details of the artifacts, truly savoring their unique designs up close.

In Stalker 2, as with its earlier versions, the focus lies on strategically equipping your weapons for various scenarios. It’s impractical to lug around an entire arsenal or excess ammo, but choosing the right tools for the job is crucial. The developers at GSC Game World have done a great job of making the weapon feel tangible – each shot has an impact on our actions, there’s a realistic recoil, and handling the weapon, whether drawing it or reloading, isn’t something that happens instantly.

Maintaining our weapons and armor is vital since regular maintenance can help avoid frequent jams in combat, saving crucial seconds we don’t want to waste on unloading a stuck shell. Armor, over time, loses its protective qualities, diminishing our chances of survival. We can upgrade these tools either by seeking assistance from Technicians in villages (like lightening the weight or allowing us to carry more beneficial items) or by making improvements on-the-go, such as attaching a silencer to a pistol.

During our discussion about enhancements and maintenance, let’s bring up the game’s economic system. It’s important to understand that goods in this area are isolated from the rest of the world, which means prices at local vendors might appear high or unaffordable to us. Additionally, improving items requires financial investment, as well as strategic decisions about equipment lifespan. But don’t fret! There are multiple chances to generate income or obtain valuable items. Side quests from non-player characters offer a source of earnings, we may sometimes rescue someone in trouble and receive credits, and artifacts can always be sold for profit.

The game encourages you to venture around as you’ll discover lots of intriguing objects by wandering, accomplishing tasks, and investigating hidden spots. At present, I’m engrossed in Stalker 2, playing on the “Veteran” level, and I’m not grumbling about the scarcity of ammo or medical supplies. Instead, I get to strategically allocate them across various caches that I’ve set up.

Problems and bugs – be careful out there, Stalker!

Unfortunately, there’s usually a snag when it comes to how a game plays, and this is especially true for the Stalker series, including Stalker 2. While the Stalker series has never been one of the flawless games, neither does Stalker 2 fit into that category.

The game is full of bigger or smaller bugs. Some examples of them are:

1. inability to complete quests, because the item I needed didn’t appear under the marker or the key character didn’t want to talk to me;
2. from the accounts of colleagues from the editorial office: the complete disappearance of underground locations, which hindered further exploration;
3. disappearance of sounds or HUD elements;
4. disappearance of visible tags and replacing them again with question marks;
5. levitating dead characters in the air;
6. occasional game crashes;
7. NPC getting stuck in doors;
8. models are sometimes stuck into the ground.

In the game Stalker 2, enemies tend to reappear frequently. This meant that I had to tread carefully along the road and keep a constant lookout in all directions. More often than not, a gang of soldiers or stalkers would suddenly materialize behind me, making me wonder how they managed to appear out of nowhere. Is it some sort of Zone magic at work or something else? While these situations can occasionally be used to our advantage, they usually just leave me feeling puzzled.

In some instances, the AI experiences glitches while loading the game, causing enemies to momentarily freeze, as if they’ve forgotten about your presence until you get closer. But make no mistake, when the AI functions optimally, it exhibits a keen sense of caution and strategy. To put it another way, opponents are constantly on alert, seeking to pinpoint your location with grenades, and attempting to trap you by surrounding you when they have the chance. Moreover, many mutants intelligently take cover behind obstacles when they can’t easily reach you, biding their time for the perfect moment to strike.

It’s no surprise to seasoned gamers that there are bugs in Stalker. Here’s hoping GSC Game World addresses these issues promptly by releasing frequent updates, ensuring a smoother gaming experience as we traverse the Zone.

Music and sound – do you hear it, Stalker?

In the earlier versions of the series, the sound design and special effects stood out as notable features. This continues to hold true in Stalker 2, yet it’s made even more pronounced in this installment.

Right from the start, the game envelops us in an orchestra of noises. Unusual hums echo, nature whispers and crackles, and the creatures dwelling within the Zone announce their presence with growls, roars, or buzzing. At times, these natural sounds can be misleading, creating the sensation that a mutant is hot on your heels. This adds to the sense of danger. Additionally, Skif’s sounds adapt realistically – walking on a wet surface gives off the sensation of soggy footsteps.

In addition, I’ll point out that it’s an advantage that most mutants have distinct sounds, which are clear enough to identify what you’re encountering as soon as you enter the building. Navigating cautiously through the wilderness, you’ll swiftly pick up on the barks of dogs or the grunts of wild boars, and the roar of a Leech is unmistakable. Furthermore, gunfire sounds will help you pinpoint their location instantly.

During gameplay, there’s a soothing background soundscape that harmoniously mixes with natural sounds. This works particularly well in subterranean locations or tunnels, where the setting of Stalker 2 leans towards horror. **The developers skillfully created an atmosphere of apprehension**, making each step we take feel unusually loud, especially when we accidentally kick a metal can or wire – at such moments, it feels like every action is amplified and could potentially be heard.

It’s important to note that the authentic voices of the characters in Stalker are noteworthy, especially since I prefer playing this game in its original language, Ukrainian. In the upcoming Stalker 2, these characters have unique and distinct voices with varying tones and sounds, making it possible to identify them or even predict their character or intentions. These voices are not caricatured but rather realistic, akin to what one might hear on the street. The actors’ delivery of lines conveys the characters’ emotions effectively, creating suspense even in scenes that demand a touch of theatricality. Skif’s voice is particularly convincing and well-suited to his character. His gruff tone suggests a tough man who may be weary of life.

In English, much like the original, individual performers delivered commendable performances. Many of them utilize accents that add richness to their voices. These accents are generally well-selected, they sound appealing, and they’re pleasing to the ear. Additionally, these accents tend to be slightly higher pitched than those used by Ukrainian voice actors. To me, Skif’s voice in the English version seems more youthful. This could just be a subjective perception; I encourage you to listen for yourself and make your own judgment!

One key strength of the upcoming game, “Stalker 2”, lies in its revival of timeless and cherished guitar tunes, a feature that will delight long-time series followers who recall the nostalgic melodies from games like “Shadow of Chernobyl” and “Clear Sky“. Novice players can also look forward to discovering these songs for the first time. It’s advisable to take a brief pause and appreciate them, as they blend harmoniously with the game’s intense Zone ambiance. Interestingly, these tunes exhibit a certain degree of imperfection, with occasional off-key notes or rough string plucks. However, this imperfection subtly enhances the human element within the music.

A captivating feature introduced in the sequence is a portable radio, enhancing our ability to enjoy a wider range of tunes and broadcasts. Frequently, its audio contributes significantly to the chilling ambiance, such as when it’s heard broadcasting eerily in solitude amidst a deserted shipwreck.

Visuals – there’s beauty here, Stalker!

I’ve emphasized several times that the Zone is both breathtakingly beautiful yet perilous, and the visual design truly brings this to life. Earlier versions of Stalker managed to convey a desolate feeling but stuck to the same dull tones of gray, brown, and faded yellows. However, Stalker 2 offers a more captivating use of color and contrasts, while maintaining its distinctive and familiar color scheme.

Forests, as well as the interiors of buildings or houses, carry an unusual sense of familiarity yet elegance. This is particularly noticeable in locations frequently visited by Non-Player Characters (NPCs), such as bars, shops, and command centers. Additional details like posters, furniture, and carpets contribute to a cozy ambiance, effectively mirroring the eastern setting of the game.

It’s equally captivating to witness the various weather occurrences. A sunset when perfectly timed is awe-inspiring, while storms carry an immense power that can be particularly intimidating in open spaces. In heavy rain at night, visibility is limited to just beyond your nose tip. Therefore, it’s worthwhile to occasionally find a secure spot and spend some time observing the weather.

A great enhancement is portraying the “corporeality of the character.” The earlier installments of the series were brimming with weapon-related interactions, and these instances intensified the protagonist’s “emotional resonance.” Scenes depicting actions like eating canned food or bread, self-treatment, or hand gestures might appear as unnecessary moments consuming valuable screen time, but they serve as a captivating visual element that lends character not only to the game but also to Skif.

When considering the characters’ physical appearance in our discussion, it’s important to note the models chosen for each character. These models align well with the overall atmosphere, particularly regarding their outfits or looks, but it’s hard to ignore that they appear somewhat rigid by today’s standards. Despite this being a significant advance from earlier versions, it might take some new players by surprise, as they may be accustomed to certain graphic effects. However, the scenes, almost like watching a movie, are incredibly lifelike and believable.

The developers additionally emphasized on making graphical elements more distinct, particularly those associated with specific dangers like bleeding. Meanwhile, as we exit a contaminated zone, the screen’s edges will subtly pulsate until the radiation level is reduced using medication or alcohol. In case of bleeding, the screen appears to have droplets of blood splattered across it, momentarily disrupting our gaming experience.

Just like its predecessors, Stalker 2 makes skillful use of its graphic designers’ work, adorning loading screens and journal pages with distinctive concept art. Each piece captures the essence of the Zone and the journey perfectly, making me wish I could display a few of them on my wall above my computer.

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2024-11-20 17:04