The long-awaited sequel, STALKER 2, has officially reached a major milestone, going gold! This signifies that the game is complete and ready for release, a monumental achievement for the Ukrainian developer GSC Game World. The term ‘gone gold’ might seem a bit archaic, harkening back to the days of physical game discs. In the digital age, it means the game is finished, and the development team can now focus on getting the game ready for its release.
STALKER 2’s journey to gold has been anything but straightforward. The original STALKER, released in 2007, captivated players with its immersive world and challenging gameplay. Its successor, STALKER: Call of Pripyat, followed in 2009, further solidifying the franchise’s place in gaming history. The development of STALKER 2 was initially announced in 2010 with a projected release in 2012. However, the studio’s dissolution in 2011 led to the project’s cancellation.
Despite these setbacks, GSC Game World was resurrected in 2014 under the leadership of Evgeniy Grygorovych, brother of the original founder. STALKER 2 was re-announced in 2018, with a release window of 2021. Sadly, the real world intervened, with the Russian invasion of Ukraine causing a major disruption to the development. Despite the challenges, GSC Game World persevered. They went radio silent for a period before resurfacing with a playable demo at Gamescom 2023. The demo allowed players to experience the game firsthand and offered GSC Game World valuable feedback for final adjustments.
Finally, after a tumultuous journey spanning over a decade, STALKER 2 is ready for its official release on November 20, 2024. Fans eagerly await the chance to explore the post-apocalyptic world of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, navigate its treacherous environments, and unravel its mysteries. This landmark achievement for GSC Game World marks the culmination of years of dedication and resilience, and it is a testament to their unwavering commitment to bringing this long-awaited sequel to life.
