While the precise launch date of Stalker 2 remains under wraps, we anticipate its release in December 2023. The game, a creation of GSC Game World, will debut on PC and Xbox Series X|S. It is poised to be the most significant Xbox-exclusive game of the year, trailing only Starfield. Although rumours hint at the exclusivity agreement being temporary, there is no official confirmation as yet. Consequently, the burning question among players is: Will Stalker 2 be on Game Pass?
The original Stalker, a game that artistically reimagines the real-world Chernobyl catastrophe, stands as one of the most iconic titles in gaming history. With the world transformed into a nightmarish landscape due to radiation, the game weaves together elements of survival, horror, and shooter genres. Stalker 2 aims to push these boundaries even further, poised to be one of the standout titles of 2023. Here’s everything you need to know about the game’s compatibility with Game Pass.
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Is Stalker 2 Coming to Game Pass?
Yes, Stalker 2: Heart of Chernobyl will be ready for play on Game Pass right from its launch date. This perk allows subscribers of the PC Game Pass or Xbox Game Pass to indulge in the game at no additional cost. This development is largely a result of Xbox shifting its competition strategy with PlayStation towards live service, resulting in an ultimate win for us, the players.
Originally slated for a 2021 release, Stalker 2 encountered multiple delays attributed to the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Given that the game’s development studio is based in Ukraine, the repercussions of the war directly impacted them. Despite these challenging conditions, the game they’ve crafted is impressively remarkable.
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Officially titled S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chernobyl, the game will maintain continuity with the initial series instalment. Players should brace themselves for a chilling experience featuring limited ammunition, formidable adversaries, and an ominously dark atmosphere. It will be intriguing to see how they interpret and portray the radiation narrative that has been so effectively handled by the Metro series, considering they were the original proponents of this concept.
One of the most striking pieces of news regarding the new Stalker is that the game was entirely developed using Unreal Engine 5. As evident in the gameplay video below, the game’s aesthetics are breathtaking. Should they manage to carry over this level of visual quality to the entirety of the game, players can anticipate one of the best-looking next-generation gaming experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stalker 2 Online Multiplayer?
Yes, Stalker 2 will support multiplayer mode with a free update post-launch. It’s worth noting, though, that the game’s online mode will be separate from the main storyline. As such, players can look forward to a solo gaming experience immersed in the highly anticipated eerie ambience, just like in the original game. Afterwards, they will have the opportunity to face off against other players in various online modes set in a similar environment.
Will Stalker 2 Be an Open World Game?
Absolutely, Stalker 2 is entirely designed as an open-world game. Picture a world struggling to survive in the aftermath of the Chernobyl disaster. The landscape, navigable only with special equipment, will be inhabited by fearsome creatures transformed by radiation. However, there will be no linear main storyline — instead, players will be granted full autonomy. It’s entirely up to them to decide when and where they wish to venture.
Is Stalker 2 Cancelled?
Stalker 2’s development journey has indeed been rather turbulent. Originally announced in 2010, the project was subsequently cancelled in 2012. Following six years of inactivity, development resumed in 2018. Initially, 2021 was slated as the release date. However, the progress was impeded due to the military conflict between Russia and Ukraine. But fear not — barring any unforeseen circumstances, Stalker 2 is set for release in December 2023.
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