With STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl nearing completion we had the opportunity to interview Technical Producer, Yevhenii and Marketing Producer Glad “Fenec” Novikov. Both have shed light on what players can expect from this next-gen iteration of the beloved post-apocalyptic franchise.

Authentic Experience and Development Process

The game promises to deliver “the classic, unique S.T.A.L.K.E.R. experience, but with next-gen graphics and an expanded scale, delivering the maximum settings possible,” according to Novikov. This commitment to authenticity extends to the game’s development process, with the team conducting multiple expeditions to the real Chernobyl Exclusion Zone.

Yevhenii explains, “We undertook many expeditions to the actual location, which is about an hour and a half drive from our main office. We took a lot of photos and videos. Additionally, we use photogrammetry in our game, meaning that most of our props, buildings, textures, and so on are based on real, existing objects that you might recognize from the Chernobyl exclusion zone.”

The attention to detail doesn’t stop there. Novikov adds, “It was actually part of the onboarding process for new employees. About three months ago, they went on an excursion to the Chernobyl exclusion zone to see what we are creating the game about. This helped ensure everyone was on the same page during the development process.”

Technical Challenges and Innovations

S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in modern gaming. The game’s vast open world spans an impressive 64 km², presenting unique challenges for the development team. “As of now, there aren’t any games of this scale running on this specific engine. We have a vast open world, spanning 64 km². The first challenge was to adapt the tools provided by the engine to meet our needs,” Yevhenii reveals.

The game also utilizes cutting-edge motion capture technology. “Regarding motion capture, we set up our own studio to handle numerous shots. This process is somewhat similar to film shooting,” Yevhenii explains. “Imagine working with actors who are accustomed to performing on stage in front of a camera. In the initial shots, they were somewhat disoriented because they couldn’t see their fellow actors. So, that was quite an interesting game challenge.”

New Protagonist and Accessibility

S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 introduces a new protagonist, an outsider to the Zone, allowing both newcomers and series veterans to experience the game’s world with fresh eyes. Novikov clarifies, “Since the protagonist is an outsider to the zone, and because this is a revamp of the experience, we wanted players to experience the zone from the perspective of someone new to it.”

This design choice serves multiple purposes. For new players, it provides a natural introduction to the Zone’s unique elements, such as anomalies and artifacts. For returning fans, it offers a fresh perspective on familiar locations and concepts, reinvigorating the sense of discovery that made the original games so compelling.

The developers have also focused on accessibility, with Yevhenii stating, “We’ve included options for players like me who want to enjoy the narrative. As a developer, I want to ensure that even those who aren’t hardcore gamers can experience the amazing story and numerous choices the game offers.” This includes various difficulty levels and customizable key bindings for both keyboard/mouse and controller setups.

Novikov adds, “We believe that the challenge of the game should come from its mechanics and not just from interacting with the game itself. Essentially, the game is much more accommodating compared to the first strategy. A lot of work has gone into designing features that are both functional and feasible.”

Gameplay and Content

Players can expect a substantial experience, with the main storyline taking approximately 40 hours to complete, and up to 100 hours for those who wish to explore every nook and cranny of the Zone. The game will feature multiple endings influenced by player choices throughout the game, encouraging replayability.

The game’s narrative structure is designed to be both expansive and reactive. While players can’t directly choose which faction to join, every main and side mission will affect their reputation with each faction. This dynamic reputation system adds depth to the player’s interactions with the game world, as their actions and choices ripple through the Zone’s complex web of alliances and rivalries.

Novikov explains, “Choices made in missions and even dialogue will have both short-term and long-term impacts on the endings. It’s almost impossible to see all endings in a single playthrough, so multiple playthroughs are likely needed to unlock all different endings.”

Side missions, while mostly free from time constraints, will occasionally feature time-sensitive elements that influence their outcomes. This adds an extra layer of strategy to mission prioritization, encouraging players to carefully manage their time and resources as they navigate the dangers of the Zone.

Classic Features and New Elements

While staying true to the series’ iconic elements, such as underground laboratories and faction dynamics, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 also introduces new features. Novikov confirms, “Absolutely, underground laboratories are a classic feature of the series. Players will encounter many of these labs throughout the main storyline and they are great places to explore during survival.”

The game also features an evolved AI system, with human enemies displaying intelligent tactics like flanking maneuvers. Yevhenii elaborates on the AI design: “Mutants are the smartest enemies and will outmaneuver players. Mutant animals are indeed less intelligent, and what you encountered were basic enemies that only attack. As you progress, you’ll encounter more advanced mutant creatures. These creatures are designed to defend their territory, attacking intruders and stopping once you leave their territory. If you lure bandits into their territory, they’ll fight each other, which adds an interesting dynamic.”

Visual Diversity

Despite the series’ reputation for bleak, wasteland aesthetics, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 will offer some visual variety. Novikov mentions, “Players will encounter a poppy field and the real-life Red Forest, which are brighter and more beautiful settings.” This diversity in environments promises to keep exploration fresh and engaging throughout the game.

As the release date approaches, it’s clear that S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl aims to push the boundaries of the series while staying true to its roots. With its vast open world, authentic environments, deep storytelling, and next-gen graphics, the game promises to offer both longtime fans and newcomers a deeply immersive journey into the Zone. Whether you’re a seasoned stalker or a curious newcomer, the Heart of Chornobyl awaits your exploration.