The highly anticipated STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl is inching toward its November 20, 2024 release day. But everything may not be going so well behind the scenes. As a Day 1 title for Xbox Game Pass and an entry to a cult classic, expectations are high.
The game’s review embargo will allegedly be lifted only two hours before the launch. Fans are worried that we might get an unoptimized, poorly performing game on launch. Are the devs trying to hide something? It would be a shame if the game is underwhelming after this much build-up.
This Day 1 Xbox Game Pass Might Be a Blessing In Disguise
The STALKER franchise is one that is beloved for its eerie setting and atmospheric storytelling. And it is making a grand return after a 14-year hiatus. STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl is finally coming out on November 20th after facing multiple delays.
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Developed by GSC Game World, the game has been a beacon of hope for fans of the franchise. STALKER 2 offers an estimated 100 hours of gameplay, modding support on consoles, and a non-linear narrative.
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The game went through a lot of delays and other issues because of GSC Game World’s relocation amid political instability. The fact that it’s finally coming out has been a positive sign for a lot of fans. But with just a day left before launch, all may not be as it seems.
But after a recent report from Insider Gaming’s senior editor in a now-deleted tweet, the game’s review embargo lifts just two hours before launch. And players don’t know if it means that they should expect something bad, or the worst.
According to Insider Gaming’s senior editor, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl’s review embargo lifts on Wednesday at 2pm GMT/9am ET, 2 hours before the game officially releases
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This often signals a lack of developer confidence. Studios with polished games usually lift embargoes well in advance to generate hype. But in STALKER 2’s case, the 2-hour window is concerning. GSC Game World might be bracing for criticism related to bugs, glitches, or overall performance.
Everyone Wants It To Succeed, But Will It?
As a Day 1 Xbox Game Pass title, STALKER 2 offers subscribers a chance to explore its world without an upfront purchase. This could soften the blow of potential issues, as players may feel less financially invested. But this release comes right after the runaway success of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6‘s Day 1 launch on the platform.
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GSC Game World has promised full modding support for the game though. It could extend the game’s longevity and players could potentially get community fixes for bugs and problems.
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But still, for players not on Game Pass, the $60 standard edition and the more expensive Digital Deluxe Edition ask the buyer for confidence that the game will meet expectations. But with the current situation, it’s a confidence that many currently lack.
Despite these concerns, there is a strong desire among fans to support the developers, especially given the unique challenges faced during the game’s development. Fans of the STALKER series have waited for so long that it may outweigh the problems.
For all the gamers who don’t have a Game Pass subscription, waiting to play STALKER 2 may be the safest bet. It has increasingly become an industry standard to launch buggy games and fix them post-launch.
With the release just a day away, will STALKER 2 be everything it promised? Or will we add another title to the list of underwhelming 2024 releases?
