GSC Game World has confirmed yet another delay for its long-awaited post-apocalyptic shooter, STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl, but this time there is a final release date.

Previously, announced to be scheduled for launch in the first quarter of this year, GSC Game World put out a trailer today, announcing that STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl now has the final release date of September 5, 2024.

The Ukrainian studio said that its decision on the game’s delay was based on fan feedback after STALKER 2’s public showing at gamescom 2023 and other events across France, Brazil, Singapore, and other countries.

“And as true friends always do, you shared your honest thoughts about the game,” said GSC Game World in an official Twitter post.

In the post, GSC Game World highlighted two points, both positive and negative.

For one, the game ” feels and plays like S.T.A.L.K.E.R, the atmosphere, hardcore style, harsh and unwelcoming environment are ready to cook”, which is good.

However, on the technical side of things, it was clear the game needed more time.

“Throughout the frankly challenging development process, we understood the time was of the team’s main essence.”

“Seeing the scope of polishing and understanding that we can’t push your patience too much, we were absolutely dedicated to releasing the game in Q1 2024, and we worked extra hard to meet the release window.”

“That, however, doesn’t change the fact that at the beginning of this year, we still witnessed the certain amount of technical imperfections that hold S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 below the expected standards for the final experience our fans are waiting for. ”

“While there is absolutely no way to make another delay sound less dim, we decided to be clear about our reasons to postpone the game for the sake of yet another wave of polishing.”

“The final release date for S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is now September 5, 2024.”

“We know that you are waiting for this moment, as well as we do. But the preparation needs to be done so that the journey into the Zone goes smoothly and as planned.”

“Thanks for your patience and continuous support, and be ready to see a lot of info about the game further this year.”

During our time at gamescom asia 2023, we had an opportunity to interview Technical Producer Vlad Lebedynets and Marketing Producer Vlad Novikov from GSC Game World about the fascinating world of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, which you can read here.

S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is set to release on PC via Steam and Xbox Series X|S, and will be available on Game Pass on day one.