Stalker 2 devs on releasing a truly Ukrainian game during Russia’s invasion – “it took on an even greater significance than before”

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has resulted in the destruction of homes, the desecration of monuments and the loss of countless lives. After the invasion began in 2022, Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl developer GSC Game World stayed dedicated to developing the game, creating a truly Ukrainian piece of art amidst the biggest attack their homeland had ever seen.

Speaking to VideoGamer after launch, GSC Game World explained that it was important to keep the unbreakable spirit of the country alive within the game. Alongside changing the video game’s subtitle from the globally recognised “Chernobyl” to its Ukrainian form “Chornobyl”, the team wanted their identity to sing throughout their art.

The Ukrainian identity Stalker 2 mattered more than ever

In written interview, GSC Game World explained that the game was always a truly Ukrainian experience, “but after the full-scale war began, it took on an even greater significance than ever before”.

“No one in Ukraine wanted this war, and no one planned to release a game under these circumstances—but we had to rise to the challenge,” the team explained. “You don’t often think about your identity until it’s cast under the shadow of an existential threat—you just live your life. Now, that identity matters more than ever.”

During development, and even after, Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl was met with Russian pushback. Disinformation campaigns claimed the game was actually a virus stealing data from users and government officials threatened to ban the game in Russia and treat it as terrorism for financially supporting Ukraine.

Despite this, the game was a resounding success across the globe, but the support the team received from its fellow Ukrainians was the most touching. On launch, the game’s downloads took down the region’s internet as thousands of fans downloaded and played the survival game.

“Ukraine is our home, and Ukrainians are our most dedicated fans,” the developers said. “We were absolutely thrilled that the game was so warmly received in Ukraine. The amount of positivity and support we got was unreal. The day after the release, the game’s launch was even acknowledged in the Ukrainian parliament.

“Every day, Ukrainians face things no one should ever have to endure. If we managed to give them even a brief moment to step away, to feel joy, or to take pride — that’s the highest reward we could ever hope for.”

After everything, the team at GSC dedicates their continued work “to Ukraine’s heroes and defenders — those who protect our independence and those who gave their lives for their Homeland. Eternal memory.”

“Thank you to everyone who waited, supported us, believed in us, played, and actively shared (and continues to share) their thoughts,” the team said. “In every moment, even the toughest ones, this was for you, the players. This gratitude is the most sincere, genuine, and honest kind.”

GSC’s work on Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl is far from over. Alongside continued fixes for the game’s buggier elements, a number of expansions are also in the works as well as a multiplayer co-op experience.