Gab Hernandez 
STALKER 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the cult classic STALKER, has just confirmed its 2024 release date.
STALKER 2’s development journey has been quite a rollercoaster. The first STALKER was initially released in 2007 and since then, the sequel’s development has been on and off. The game was supposed to be released in 2022, but much of the Ukrainian development studio was forced to relocate. Since then, the studio has been subjected to repeated leaks and a release window has been announced and then pushed back multiple times.
But at long last, it looks like STALKER 2 is finally prepped for release. STALKER 2’s demo at Gamescom 2023 was positively received by critics and casual gamers alike, with many noting that it still felt like the STALKER they knew and loved. Everyone is set to get a taste of the game this Fall, though.
What is STALKER 2’s release date?
STALKER 2 will be released on September 5, 2024, and is currently available for pre-order.
Although STALKER 2 was previously slated for a Q1 2024 release, STALKER 2 developer GSC Game World believed the game needed more time. The team cited technical imperfections that it felt weren’t fit for public consumption.
On the bright side, this was the first concrete release date that the studio has given in a while. It also communicated that all that was left to do was to polish the technical side of things. Fan reaction was a mix of disappointment and understanding, likely in part due to the unique situation the developers find themselves in.
STALKER 2 set to boost Xbox exclusives in 2024
STALKER 2 will be an Xbox Series X/S console exclusive, but it will also be available on PC. There are a number of major exclusives lined up for 2024 including Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 and Avowed. While the latest release date delay for STALKER 2 is undoubtedly disappointing there will be a number of big games to enjoy in the meantime, and it’s worth revisiting the original STALKER titles.
Although many fans recommend the installation of mods such as the Zone Reclamation Project for quality-of-life reasons, the fundamental gameplay of STALKER is still captivating to this day. One of the reasons that STALKER is still beloved despite its age is its unique gameplay loop and setting.
Few other games have the weighty gunplay, spooky atmosphere, and intense survival mechanics that STALKER brings to the table. It’s worth noting that while Clear Sky, Shadow of Chernobyl, and Call of Pripyat are separate titles, they are all considered one long game by the fans.
