GSC Game World has proudly announced that Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl has surpassed one million sales within just two days of its release. This milestone comes as a significant achievement for the Ukrainian developer, considering the game’s complex development journey and its simultaneous debut on Xbox Game Pass, which offers it as part of Microsoft’s subscription service.
The sales figure highlights the strong demand for the much-anticipated sequel despite the option for many players to access it through Game Pass. The developer expressed gratitude to the community in a Steam announcement, thanking players who have purchased the game and shown their support.
Stalker 2 marks the return of the beloved series known for its atmospheric blend of open-world exploration, survival mechanics, and RPG elements. This sequel continues to immerse players in the treacherous Zone surrounding the Chornobyl Exclusion Area, bringing a mix of intense combat and eerie anomalies.
Despite its commercial success, the game’s launch has not been without hiccups. Many players have reported technical issues, ranging from minor bugs to significant glitches. While Steam reviews remain broadly positive, even supportive fans have pointed out the need for polish. GSC Game World has acknowledged these “rough edges” and assured players that hotfixes are being rolled out to address pressing issues. The studio also revealed plans for larger updates, including additional content, with a comprehensive roadmap scheduled for release in December.
The road to Stalker 2’s release has been fraught with challenges. Originally announced in 2010, the game faced numerous delays and development setbacks before being reintroduced at E3 2021 with an expected release date of April 2022. However, the ongoing war in Ukraine significantly impacted the project. GSC Game World, headquartered in Kyiv, faced the unique burden of developing the game amidst the turmoil of Russia’s invasion.
Despite these hardships, Stalker 2 has launched to an audience eager to experience its chilling world. It is currently available on PC and Xbox Series X|S, with players also able to access it through Xbox Game Pass. The early success of Stalker 2 signals not only the resilience of its developers but also the enduring popularity of the franchise.
