S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2’s irradiated world is dreadfully peaceful, if a bit confusing at the momentIn a sort of, “I’m going to die” way
In a sort of, “I’m going to die” way
Image credit:GSC Game World
Image credit:GSC Game World
Maybe I played a very early build, but while the world itself looks every bit the eerie post apocalypticsurvivalwasteland you hope, NPC interactions aren’t in as great shape. Chats with friendlies are unclear, and in firefights the enemy AI is shonky - to the extent that I think it’ll be more useful as a preview to just tell you exactly what happened to me as I played.
Image credit:GSC Game World
Image credit:GSC Game World
In the last five minutes I looted a big magazine attachment for my submachine gun, but then an announcement played over the radio which said a storm was coming and I’d need to hide. I elected to stay out in the open and took in the swirling red of the sky and ominous crimson waves sweeping through the trees. Sure enough, I took loads of damage and died.
Despite a few fundamentals being in good shape, it felt likeveryearly days for whatever version or slice of the game I’d played. And with a December release on the horizon, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t concerned; the demo left me feeling like I was playing something due out in at least a year or so. Honestly though, it still hasn’t dampened my excitement for a game that’s hopefully just had a rough outing here - or at least, could use a bit more time. The devs deserve support, and whether it’s out in December or not, I’ll be there to give it another look.
For more of the latest news and previews from Gamescom 2023, head to ourGamescom 2023 hub. You can also findeverything announced at Opening Night Liveright here.
