Fans have waited a long time for the release of STALKER 2, but it looks PS5 users might have to keep waiting. The sequel to the legendary horror FPS will be exclusive to PC and Xbox Series X.
Having already been canceled and restarted, STALKER 2 has been hotly anticipated by many fans since development began in 2010. The game was officially re-announced in 2018, but it’s only recently been confirmed as exclusive to Microsoft platforms.
On Wednesday, a GSC Game World representative confirmed via Twitter that the open-world FPS horror game would be exclusive to the PC and Xbox Series X. The studio had already confirmed that STALKER 2 will be available on the Xbox Game Pass from day one. No one has made any mention of the Xbox One, suggesting STALKER 2 is strictly a next-gen title.
The history of the STALKER franchise begins with STALKER: Shadow of Chernobyl in 2007. A prequel, STALKER: Clear Sky, and a sequel, STALKER: Shadow of Pripyat, released the following years. Taking place in an alternate universe version of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, the series quickly developed a cult following for its blend of science-fiction and survival horror set in a large open world.
STALKER 2 is the direct sequel to Shadow of Chernobyl and will feature a branching narrative with multiple endings. As with previous games, it takes place in an open-world recreation of The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. This includes the infamous abandoned city of Pripyat. The developers have also promised that the game will feature one of the largest seamless open worlds to date.
STALKER was one of the main inspirations for the popular Metro series, which is also on its way to next-gen. However, the two franchises are very different from a game design standpoint, and STALKER remains fairly unique. Its niche appeal may have been part of the reason that GSC Game World had difficulty securing a publisher for STALKER 2. There has been some online speculation that Microsoft may have helped finance the game’s development in exchange for exclusivity. However, that remains unconfirmed.
Microsoft’s acquisition of Zenimax Media in September 2020 gave it control of many high-profile franchises. Its deal with GSC Game World is not quite as world-shaking, but Microsoft’s campaign of acquisitions and exclusivity deals will likely make it a stronger competitor against Sony as the new console generation continues. If nothing else, STALKER 2’s graphics will be a great way to show off the new console’s hardware.
STALKER 2 is in development for the PC and Xbox Series X
Source: GSC Game World
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