S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl, released in 2007, became a phenomenon in the post-Soviet space. Its aesthetic resonated with many, helping to accept the supernatural themes the game explored. The prequel, S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky, and the sequel, S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Call of Pripyat, expanded the game's universe and lore, while the fans, who fell in love with the series, created a huge number of mods. The series became a cultural touchstone.
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl was planned to be released in 2012, but the plans were shortly canceled. Rumors of the project being revived appeared in 2018, with the game expected to be released in 2022. But the Russian invasion of Ukraine disrupted all plans and significantly impacted the game's framing.
At gamescom 2024, I played the first 45 minutes of the game, and it’s incredible.
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Stalker 2: Heart of Chernobyl is downright gorgeous, and feels like it's using modern tech to fully realise the atmosphere the first game strove for