Simultaneous release of Clear Sky on Steam and at retail outlets.

GCS Game World and Valve have announced that S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky is to be released simultaneously at retail and as a digital download exclusive on Steam later this year.

"It's great to see a forward-thinking game maker like GCS Game World launching simultaneously in digital and traditional retail channels," said Gabe Newell, co-founder and president of Valve. "By launching S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky on Steam on the same day that it's available in stores worldwide, GCS Game World ensures that gamers can get their hands on this highly-anticipated game in the way that's most convenient for them."

S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky is set one year prior to events of the first game, with a group of stalkers having reached the heart of the Zone-Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. The game is powered by a new version of the game engine, X-Ray 1.5, offering players improved visuals and non-scripted AI combat.