Apart from a multitude of bugs at launch, STALKER 2 is proving to be a hit with fans. Of course, for those who played the original trilogy, especially at launch, the bugs are not a surprise. However, for newer players who are not used to the scary world of STALKER universe, it can feel a little alienating. The harsh gameplay loop of survival horror may seem appealing, but newcomers may be wondering if it is accessible.
This is compounded by the fact that STALKER 2 it is a sequel, which may discourage players even more. Fortunately, the extremely positive result STALKER 2 reviews point out that it is not only an excellent game, but also a perfect starting point for new fans. Of course, there are many reasons why people should try STALKER series. However, for those who are deciding whether to play the original trilogy or the new sequel, In fact, there is a lot of value in playing STALKER 2 first.
STALKER 2 is the perfect starting point for beginners
It’s the most affordable entry in the series
STALKER 2 is easily the most accessible game in the entire seriesnot only from a gameplay point of view, but also from a monetary point of view. Despite STALKER 2 buggy release, it remains a more refined experience compared to previous “Eurojank” titles. Many of the gameplay ideas introduced in the initial trilogy have been innovated on in the sequel, leading to a much more enjoyable experience that doesn’t feel quite as alienating.
For example, Shooting, stealth and survival mechanics have been improved to make the experience generally more accessible to a modern audience. Happily, STALKER 2 it still maintains the grittiness of its predecessors and offers a gritty lone wanderer fantasy for those who want it. It also looks significantly better thanks to UE5, which may be more appealing to those who don’t like older titles.
Additionally, STALKER 2 The ongoing open world finally brings the series in line with what players have come to expect from open world games. These include interesting pop-up events, can’t-miss side quests, and a plethora of resources that players can collect across the massive, deadly expanse that is the Zone. There is so much to see and do in STALKER 2 that fans will be occupied for a long time.
Most importantly, STALKER 2 is available day one on Xbox Game Pass. This means players don’t have to shell out $70 to play if they can’t afford it. The remastered version of the original trilogy, titled Legends of the Zoneis not available on a streaming service, and as such players will need to pay full price for each individual entry or the entire package. So, for those who want to enter the STALKER franchise – which is a great idea – so the sequel is by far the best option, especially since it’s a standalone entry.
STALKER 2 can be played before the original games
It won’t be too complicated for newcomers
Narratively, it may seem that players must play the STALKER trilogy before playing STALKER 2. However, this is, in most cases, not the case. Although there are connections between the original STALKER trilogy and sequel, including characters, setting and story, STALKER 2 is a standalone experience with an all-new protagonist and a whole set of new characters. For the most part, it can be enjoyed independently of the previous games.
In fact, in the game FAQ PageGSC explains that while playing the previous games is good for immersion, as players will have a better understanding of the world and its lore, “STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl is a standalone sequel to the STALKER trilogy, so it could be a great start to [a player’s] journey into the STALKER universe.“This makes it even more accessible, as fans don’t need to worry about having any prior knowledge.
Players don’t have to worry about doing extensive homework just to enjoy it all STALKER 2 interesting features.
Of course, helps to read about the general tradition of STALKER universe and maybe who some of the main characters are. Additionally, reading the original inspiration for the STALKER games, Picnic on the roadIt is encouraged but absolutely not required. Players don’t have to worry about doing extensive homework just to enjoy it all STALKER 2 interesting features.
The original STALKER trilogy is worth playing after the sequel
The original games are still excellent survival horror experiences
Of course, the original is absolutely worth playing STALKER trilogy after beating the sequel. The original three games are bona fide classics, and while they suffer from the problems of the early 2000s, they offer some of the most compelling and fascinating survival horror experiences. The worlds of the original STALKER games are unmatched when it comes to atmosphere and immersion, outside STALKER 2Of course.
Before STAKER 2 DLC drops, fans have the perfect opportunity to go back and experience the original experiences, especially now that they have all been remastered and ported to all modern hardware. It’s even available on the Nintendo Switch for those who prefer to play on their handheld. The collection comes with some improvements and quality of life improvements that make it the definitive way to play the original games. Alternatively, each remastered game can be purchased separately.
Some may fear that returning to the original games after benefiting from innovations in STALKER 2 it will be a shocking experience, but that’s not really a problem. The games all share the same identity, so while the visuals may not be as impressive, the experience will be largely the same. Ultimately, regardless of whether players decide to try out the original trilogy before jumping in STALKER 2they are sure to have an incredible time.
Source: GSC Game World/YouTube, stalker2. with
- Franchise
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STALKER
- Platform(s)
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PC, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X
- Released
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November 20, 2024
- Developer(s)
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GSC game world
- Editor(s)
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GSC game world
- Engine
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Unreal Engine 5
- CERS
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M for ages 17+ due to intense violence, blood, drug and alcohol use, language, crude humor