Opinion

Stalker 2 manages to rekindle the old magic

Philipp Rüegg
26.11.2024

The world of Stalker 2 is contaminated, eerie and dangerous, so obviously I want to go back immediately. The zone is just as enticing as in the first installment.

A lot of people have tried, but no one’s ever managed it. Creating a mixture of huge game world with secrets at every turn and deadly dangers that make me kick the bucket in a matter of seconds. It also comes with a big dose of Eastern bloc charm. 2007’s Stalker: Shadow of Chernobyl still lacks this unique flair – or it did until now.

Rust brown dominates Stalker 2. And yet it never gets boring. Be it at night or during the day, this world is impressively staged thanks to great lighting effects. When the sun shines, the zone looks incredibly idyllic. But once the moonlight reflects on your AK74, you realise this calm is deceptive. Deadly dangers could be lurking beyond your torch beam.

There are also survival mechanics, such as hunger, sleep, radiation and injuries that I have to keep an eye on. Cossack vodka helps for radiation, so I always have some in my rucksack. For once, even the carrying limit doesn’t bother me — or at least, it hardly does. Stalker 2 aims to be reasonably realistic. So it feels like a job well done when I manage to deliver two weapons to the dealer in fairly good condition. Fast travel is incredibly limited.

You need money urgently. Without a skill tree or similar role-playing elements, you can only use equipment to increase your chances of survival in the zone. Even the smallest weapon upgrade costs a fortune, and they only apply to that one weapon. So you have to look after those you have, as you can’t just take a new one from an enemy you’ve finished off. This makes every upgrade feel significant – attaching a sight to a weapon becomes a highlight.

Stalker 2 is available for PC, Xbox Series S/X and Game Pass.

45 people like this article


User Avatar
User Avatar

As a child, I wasn't allowed to have any consoles. It was only with the arrival of the family's 486 PC that the magical world of gaming opened up to me. Today, I'm overcompensating accordingly. Only a lack of time and money prevents me from trying out every game there is and decorating my shelf with rare retro consoles. 


Gaming
Follow topics and stay updated on your areas of interest

Opinion

This is a subjective opinion of the editorial team. It doesn't necessarily reflect the position of the company.

Show all

These articles might also interest you

  • Opinion

    Why reinvent the wheel? I want more recycling in games!

    by Domagoj Belancic

  • Opinion

    «Resident Evil»: a game that shaped me and a whole generation

    by Philipp Rüegg

  • Opinion

    «World of Warcraft Classic»: welcome home

    by Philipp Rüegg