Explore the CEZ in this thriling survival
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is an adventure game developed by GSC Game World. Enter a fictionalized version of the Chornobyl Exclusive Zone (CEZ) in this demo version, filled with survivors, anomalies, monsters, and powers not of this world. Aside from the action and suspense from fighting your way to the titular heart of Chernobyl, your decisions also matter.
As the next game in the STALKER series, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chernobyl shares similarities with the earlier GSC game offering, S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Call of Pripyat.
Return to a radioactive post-apocalyptic world
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl brings players back to a familiar post-apocalyptic world, similar to earlier entries in the STALKER series. Picking up from the Call of Pripyat, the journey this time goes deeper into the CEZ. The game features a large, 64-square-kilometer open-world that includes a variety of environments that fit into the overall haunting theme.
Story-wise, this game ties all the monsters and warring factions together with a Lovecraftian element near the end. Furthermore, its open-world feature comes with a decision-based storyline that branches out depending on how you respond to conversations and react to in-game situations. This makes the game immersive knowing that you get to steer the ending, and replayable for players wanting to grind all other available endings.
Also, you’ll encounter the faction system again in this game. You start out neutral and you can work your way towards befriending or eliminating each of them. This system, however, takes a more complicated turn this time around. Later in the game, some factions become too difficult to handle due to their individualized and different strategies in dealing with your character.
A more immersive Chornobyl experience
As most STALKER video games deal with an alternate CEZ, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl definitely takes it to new heights. It has a large open-world map filled with varying detailed environments. Furthermore, it carries on the franchise’s tradition of varying endings depending on player actions. With a larger game area and more branch-out points for the story, expect an immersive experience over and over.
