The journey through the world of Stalker 2 has etched itself into my memory, a week dedicated almost entirely to immersing myself in its depths. The experience was not without its challenges, as I navigated a series of pre-launch bugs—ranging from weapon audio glitches to defeated foes morphing into grotesque forms. Ultimately, I emerged from this digital odyssey, rating the game an impressive 83% in our review. While the game certainly had its fiery moments, it also showcased boldness, brilliance, and beauty that I found captivating.
However, I must admit, I was initially uncertain whether the gaming community would resonate with my enthusiasm for GSC Game World’s ambitious creation. It seems I underestimated the appeal of this title. In a recent Instagram post, the studio proudly announced that Stalker 2 has attracted a remarkable 6 million players, a number substantial enough to fill Prypiat 120 times over.
In comparison, Monster Hunter Wilds achieved a staggering eight million copies sold within just three days, yet Stalker 2’s success is commendable, particularly given the series’ history of being somewhat flawed and the significant interruptions caused by the invasion of its home country during development.
This surge in player engagement is encouraging, and I sincerely hope the numbers continue to climb as GSC rolls out extensive patches to enhance the game. These updates aim to revive the dormant A-life AI system and address lingering bugs that have persisted in the code. Personally, I find myself hesitating to dive back into the game until it reaches a state of full refinement, though the temptation to start a new save has crossed my mind more than once.
Before I embark on another journey through Stalker 2, I plan to revisit the original Stalker trilogy. GSC surprised fans last year by announcing that the PC versions would receive patches to align them with the more recent console releases, making this a perfect opportunity for nostalgia. Happy hunting to all six million of you who have ventured into the Zone!
