Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl Delayed for Good Reason

The upcoming survival horror game, Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl, has been delayed, but is it really a bad thing? As I spent some time playing the demo at Gamescom 2023, I began to understand why GSC Game World decided to push back its release date. While the game looks promising, there are several areas that need improvement before it's ready for prime time.

Rough Edges and Unrealistic AI

The demo showcased the game's graphics, mechanics, AI, and systems, but unfortunately, these elements need more polishing. Enemies run blindly out of cover, fail to take shelter from shrapnel, and ignore environmental hazards, making them feel unrealistic. Combatants also don't seem to take damage at all, or if they do, they don't flinch at point of impact. These issues are crucial to address before the game's release.

Environmental Details Lacking

Visually, the environments are a little flat, flora and fauna lack definition, and there's a surreal lack of detail outside of pistols, rifles, and shotguns. This is disappointing considering that Stalker 2 will be the first in the series to launch on console. The game may not live up to expectations with its Unreal Engine 5 visuals, at least not yet.

Customization System a Bright Spot

On the positive side, the weapons feel solid, and there's a tidy customization system that allows players to modify guns while out in the field. An attractive animation occurs when feeding an extended magazine into an assault rifle, which is a nice touch.

Xbox Game Pass and High Expectations

Stalker 2 will be available on Xbox Game Pass, which will bring it massive exposure. Expectations are already running sky high, but with good reason. The Stalker series has a dedicated fan base, and the game's unique blend of survival horror and open-world exploration is exciting.

While Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl still has some rough edges, GSC Game World is working hard to optimize its elements. The demo provided a snapshot of the game's graphics, mechanics, AI, and systems, but more refinement is needed before release. With Xbox Game Pass on board, expectations are high, and it's crucial that the developers focus on artificial intelligence and environmental details in the coming months.

File Size: As the game's release date approaches, fans will be eager to dive back into the world of Stalker 2. With a solid foundation already in place, GSC Game World just needs to iron out some wrinkles before delivering a top-notch survival horror experience.

Stalker 2 file size