# S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl patch notes > Discover the vast Chornobyl Exclusion Zone full of dangerous enemies, deadly anomalies and powerful artifacts. - Vendor: GSC Game World - Category: Games - Platforms: Windows, Xbox - Official site: https://www.stalker2.com/ - Tracked by: What's New (https://whatsnew.fyi/product/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-heart-of-chornobyl) - Harvested from: Steam (app 1643320) - Entries below: 17 (newest first) What's New is an index, not a publisher: every entry below links to the vendor's own release notes, which are the authoritative source. Entries are labelled where they are hand-curated sample data, pre-releases, or drawn from a secondary source such as a developer blog. Reuse: the summaries, labels and curation here are © What's New. Quote freely with attribution and a link back; wholesale republication of the corpus is not permitted — terms: https://whatsnew.fyi/terms. The vendors' own release notes remain their publishers'. ## Releases ### Stalkers! Patch 2.0.6 is ready to be downloaded. - Date: 2026-09-18 - Original notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/699902057256059296 - Permalink: https://whatsnew.fyi/product/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-heart-of-chornobyl/releases/2026-09-18-stalkers-patch-2.0.6-is-ready-to-be-downloaded - Labels: Platforms: Windows, Xbox - **fixed** — Backported several fixes for AMD GPU-related crashes - **fixed** — Fixed several other high-priority crashes Stalkers! Patch 2.0.6 is ready. This one is a minor crash fix patch that will help stalkers that experience annoying crashing anomalies too often, especially in the AMD region. - Backported several fixes for AMD GPU-related crashes. - Fixed several other high-priority crashes. Stay tuned for more as we will continue to work on improving your experience in future updates. Also, discounts on upgrades for S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl began today on Steam — until September 30, you can purchase the Deluxe or Ultimate editions at a 30% discount. **⚠️ WARNING** The Zone is ever-changing, and a new update can shift Her structure. If you’ve chosen to walk the path with modifications, know this: they may not withstand the latest shifts. **If you have performance or stability issues following the release of a new update, we recommend you to disable your mods**. If you continue to experience issues, please visit [https://support.stalker2.com/hc](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) for additional troubleshooting steps and assistance. Please, if you face an unexpected “anomaly” that is not supposed to be in the game, report it to our Technical Support Center. Our colleagues will take a closer look at it to annihilate and destroy the danger to the Zone. ### Patch 2.0.5 Is Here — Over 200 Fixes ⚒ - Date: 2026-09-10 - Original notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/670628025926156484 - Permalink: https://whatsnew.fyi/product/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-heart-of-chornobyl/releases/2026-09-10-patch-2.0.5-is-here-over-200-fixes - Labels: Platforms: Windows, Xbox - **fixed** — Fixed the issue with the too sensitive left and right sticks on the controllers on the PC platform - **fixed** — Fixed the issue when the system notifications could stay on screen and do not disappear - **fixed** — Fixed the issue when the night time could suddenly stuck during the playthrough - **changed** — Adjusted hearing of the NPCs during foggy, rainy, and thundery weather conditions - **changed** — Changed the behavior of the particles after destroying pseudobrain tanks - **fixed** — Fixed the issue when the NPCs with night vision devices had the flashlight shining behind their heads - **fixed** — Fixed the issue when the NPC could get stuck midair in A-pose after falling from the Vortex arch anomaly - **fixed** — Fixed the issue when the jaded Chimera summon could not deal damage to the moving target - **fixed** — Fixed visual effects of dust during the Zulu's movement - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where dead bodies would shift positions if the player left the area and returned - **fixed** — Resolved an issue where some NPCs were incorrectly positioned in the world - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where NPCs would float above beds after loading a save - **fixed** — Fixed a visual bug causing unnatural side-to-side animations for Mavka when moving forward - **fixed** — Fixed a bug causing rodents' psi-illusions to trail the player instead of attacking - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where Amok could become stuck and stop moving during combat - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where NPC clothing physics would behave unnaturally during cutscenes - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where boars could become stuck while charging - **fixed** — Fixed behavior of sniper NPCs during the Shadows of the Past mission - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where the upgrading the Clapper shotgun with the choke modification removed the supressor ##### Stalkers! We’ve been working on Patch 2.0.5 and are ready to share it with the Zone. Patch 2.0.5 brings lots of fixes, over 200 of them. Let's take a look at what’s changed. - Fixed the issue with the too sensitive left and right sticks on the controllers on the PC platform. - Fixed the issue when the system notifications could stay on screen and do not disappear. - Fixed the issue when the night time could suddenly stuck during the playthrough. - Adjusted hearing of the NPCs during foggy, rainy, and thundery weather conditions. - Changed the behavior of the particles after destroying pseudobrain tanks. - Fixed the issue when the NPCs with night vision devices had the flashlight shining behind their heads. - Fixed the issue when the NPC could get stuck midair in A-pose after falling from the Vortex arch anomaly. - Fixed the issue when the jaded Chimera summon could not deal damage to the moving target. - Fixed visual effects of dust during the Zulu's movement. - Fixed an issue where dead bodies would shift positions if the player left the area and returned. - Resolved an issue where some NPCs were incorrectly positioned in the world. - Fixed an issue where NPCs would float above beds after loading a save. - Fixed a visual bug causing unnatural side-to-side animations for Mavka when moving forward. - Fixed a bug causing rodents' psi-illusions to trail the player instead of attacking. - Fixed an issue where Amok could become stuck and stop moving during combat. - Fixed an issue where NPC clothing physics would behave unnaturally during cutscenes. - Fixed an issue where boars could become stuck while charging. - Fixed behavior of sniper NPCs during the _Shadows of the Past_ mission. - Improved enemy identification for zombies in underground areas. - Fixed an issue where rodents were unable to leave restricted areas. - Fixed the issue when Max Saturday was teleporting in front of the player during the _The Lost Boys _mission. - Fixed the issue when the explosives couldn't be detonated by the grenades during _In memory of the fallen_ mission. - Fixed the issue when the upgrading the Clapper shotgun with the choke modification removed the supressor. - Increased the radio call radius for the Faraday anomalies. - Fixed delay of the first radio call for the Faraday anomaly. - Fixed an issue when the flashlight was staying enabled if disabling animation was interrupted in an EMP field. - Fixed an issue when the flashlight was staying enabled if disabling animation was interrupted in an EMP field. - Fixed an issue when scope aiming was corrupted after switching to it from offset aiming during shooting. - Fixed an issue when the player was getting damage from hunger after sleeping. - Fixed an issue when flashlight stayed enabled if disabling animation was interrupted in Spatial Bubble. - Balance tweak of the prices for some technicians around the map. - Fixed the large amount of the pseudodogs spawn at the Iron Forest during the _Unexpected alliance_ mission. - Fixed an issue when the player was able to get a reward from Honta only once per certain mutant parts. - Fixed an issue when the player could see the NPC who was flying above the bed after the final boss fight during the Mavka branch. - Fixed an issue when blind dogs were spawned inside the different objects during the _A school of life_ mission. - Fixed an issue when the player was unable to complete the _Fight of the attackers _objective during the _In the Heart of the Iron Forest _mission. - Fixed an issue when Vovchyk Quack's PDA remained as a quest item in player inventory after completing the _Moving in the shadows_ mission. - Fixed an issue when Tachenko was split incorrectly during the _Shadows of the past_ mission cutscene. - Fixed an issue when the HUD was not appearing after the cutscenes during the _The price of a miracle _mission. - Fixed an issue when pseudodeer was able to stand in the air at the SIRCAA location during t _[Truncated at 4000 characters — full notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/670628025926156484]_ ### Patch 2.0.4 is available now! - Date: 2026-08-28 - Original notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/710033254358450527 - Permalink: https://whatsnew.fyi/product/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-heart-of-chornobyl/releases/2026-08-28-patch-2.0.4-is-available-now - Labels: Platforms: Windows, Xbox - **fixed** — Player could lose the ability to move after loading a save made right after the explosion of a C4 device - **fixed** — Mavka could still be present in the Kurin hub after the end of the In the heart of the Iron Forest mission - **fixed** — Cutscene in the Zalissya bar could start a second time - **fixed** — Some mission objectives of In memory of the fallen could remain active after killing snorks - **fixed** — The destructive power of the mind mission could not be started under certain conditions - **fixed** — Zulu was answering with a busy topic instead of the scripted dialogue during the Gunpowder, sweat, and blood mission - **changed** — Improved lighting inside the CNPP hub - **fixed** — Sound could be missing on Xbox after the game update - **fixed** — Autosaves could not trigger during the DLC missions - **fixed** — Pressing P during a system notification opened the PDA while system notifications were disabled - **fixed** — System notification could remain on the screen for a long time - **fixed** — Water level could unexpectedly change during the In memory of the fallen mission - **changed** — Improved global lighting on the quality graphics preset of the Xbox Series S - **fixed** — NPC, Player and weapons could glow during rainy and foggy weather - **fixed** — Weather could change from rain to emission abruptly - **fixed** — Caffeine overdose hard breathing effect could trigger on title restart even if the effect had already gone - **fixed** — Fog could appear indoors in multiple locations - **fixed** — Fixed 26 different crashes ##### Stalkers! Patch 2.0.4 is ready. Let’s take a look at what pesky “anomalies” were fixed. • Fixed an issue where a player could lose the ability to move after loading the save made right after the explosion of a C4 device. • Fixed an issue where Mavka could still be present in the Kurin hub after the end of the _In the heart of the Iron Forest_ mission. • Fixed an issue where the cutscene in the Zalissya bar could start the second time. (Gaffer will now recognize Skif properly after all this time.) • Fixed an issue where some mission objectives of _In memory of the fallen_ could remain active after killing snorks. • Fixed an issue where the _The destructive power of the mind_ mission could not be started under certain conditions. • Fixed an issue where Zulu was answering with a busy topic instead of the scripted dialogue during the _Gunpowder, sweat, and blood_ mission. • Improved lighting inside the CNPP hub. • Fixed an issue where the sound could be missing on Xbox after the game update. • Fixed an issue where the autosaves could not trigger during the DLC missions. • Fixed an issue where pressing 'P' during a system notification opened the PDA while system notifications were disabled. • Fixed an issue where the system notification could remain on the screen for a long time. • Fixed an issue where the water level could unexpectedly change during the _In memory of the fallen_ mission. • Improved global lighting on the quality graphics preset of the Xbox Series S. • Fixed an issue where NPC, Player and weapons could glow during the rainy and foggy weather. • Fixed an issue where the weather could change from rain to emission abruptly. • Fixed an issue that caused the caffeine overdose hard breathing effect to trigger on title restart even if the effect had already gone. • Fixed an issue where the fog could appear indoors in multiple locations. • Fixed 26 different crashes. **Stay tuned for more as we will continue to work on improving your experience in Cost of Hope and future updates.** ** WARNING** The Zone is ever-changing, and a new update can shift Her structure. If you’ve chosen to walk the path with modifications, know this: they may not withstand the latest shifts. **If you have performance or stability issues following the release of a new update, we recommend you to disable your mods**. If you continue to experience issues, please visit [https://support.stalker2.com/hc](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) for additional troubleshooting steps and assistance. Please, if you face an unexpected “anomaly” that is not supposed to be in the game, report it to our Technical Support Center. Our colleagues will take a closer look at it to annihilate and destroy the danger to the Zone. ### Patch 2.0.3 is now available - Date: 2026-08-25 - Original notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/677381523352061601 - Permalink: https://whatsnew.fyi/product/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-heart-of-chornobyl/releases/2026-08-25-patch-2.0.3-is-now-available - Labels: Platforms: Windows, Xbox - **fixed** — Addressed a crash that could occur for some players when launching the game - **added** — Steam Items are now approved and available Hello, stalkers! ##### Patch 2.0.3 is now available. What's New: - Addressed a crash that could occur for some players when launching the game. And one more piece of good news — Steam Items are now approved and going live as well. You can find it here: [https://store.steampowered.com/points/shop/app/1643320](https://store.steampowered.com/points/shop/app/1643320) Thank you for staying with us. We're continuing to work on further fixes and improvements. ⚠️ WARNING The Zone is ever-changing, and a new update can shift Her structure. If you’ve chosen to walk the path with modifications, know this: they may not withstand the latest shifts. **If you have performance or stability issues following the release of Back to the Zone, we recommend you to disable your mods** If you continue to experience issues, please visit [https://support.stalker2.com/hc](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) for additional troubleshooting steps and assistance. Please, if you face an unexpected “anomaly” that is not supposed to be in the game, report it to our Technical Support Center [https://support.stalker2.com/hc](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) ### Patch 2.0.2 is now available on Steam - Date: 2026-08-23 - Original notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/677381523352061228 - Permalink: https://whatsnew.fyi/product/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-heart-of-chornobyl/releases/2026-08-23-patch-2.0.2-is-now-available-on-steam - Labels: Platforms: Windows, Xbox - **fixed** — Addressed an issue where certain NPCs or bodies could disappear and potentially prevent players from progressing Hello, stalkers! Patch 2.0.2 is now available on Steam. What's New: - Addressed an issue where certain NPCs or bodies could disappear and potentially prevent players from progressing. Thank you for continuing to play S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2. We’ll keep working on further fixes and improvements. ⚠️ WARNING The Zone is ever-changing, and a new update can shift Her structure. If you’ve chosen to walk the path with modifications, know this: they may not withstand the latest shifts. **If you have performance or stability issues following the release of Back to the Zone, we recommend you to disable your mods** If you continue to experience issues, please visit [https://support.stalker2.com/hc](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) for additional troubleshooting steps and assistance. Please, if you face an unexpected “anomaly” that is not supposed to be in the game, report it to our Technical Support Center [https://support.stalker2.com/hc](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) ### Patch 2.0.1 is here! - Date: 2026-08-21 - Original notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/677381523352061077 - Permalink: https://whatsnew.fyi/product/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-heart-of-chornobyl/releases/2026-08-21-patch-2.0.1-is-here - Labels: Platforms: Windows, Xbox - **fixed** — Fixed some broken textures ##### Stalkers! We’re ready to present Patch 2.0.1, in which we focused on fixing: - Fixed some broken textures. **⚠️ WARNING** The Zone is ever-changing, and a new update can shift Her structure. If you’ve chosen to walk the path with modifications, know this: they may not withstand the latest shifts. **If you have performance or stability issues following the release of Back to the Zone, we recommend you to disable your mods** If you continue to experience issues, please visit [https://support.stalker2.com/hc](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) for additional troubleshooting steps and assistance. Please, if you face an unexpected “anomaly” that is not supposed to be in the game, report it to our Technical Support Center [https://support.stalker2.com/hc](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) ### Update 2.0 Back to the Zone - Major Content and Technical Update - Date: 2026-08-20 - Original notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/677381523352060387 - Permalink: https://whatsnew.fyi/product/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-heart-of-chornobyl/releases/2026-08-20-update-2.0-back-to-the-zone-major-content-and-tec - Labels: Platforms: Windows, Xbox - **changed** — Upgrade engine to Unreal Engine 5.5.4 - **changed** — Improve lighting, shadows, and reflections - **changed** — Rework landscape and foliage to look more natural - **changed** — Enhance A-Life system to simulate more believable creature behavior with additional points of interest and more frequent looting by stalkers - **added** — Add three types of binoculars: FOB-45, Yastrub, and Fighter - **added** — Add four new weapons: Arev (AR), GP3A (DMR), SKP (DMR), and Fora-230 (SMG) - **added** — Add x3 scope for Western-bloc weapons and red dot sight for Eastern-bloc weapons - **added** — Enable offset aiming for weapons beyond NVGs - **added** — Add fog mechanic and rework cloudy and rainy weather - **added** — Add Statistics page to PDA - **added** — Add Custom Rules difficulty option - **added** — Add new places to visit in Prypiat - **fixed** — Fix items possessed by telekinetic mutants ability flying through hard surfaces - **fixed** — Fix Prof. Lodochka teleporting from shelter during emissions - **fixed** — Fix NPCs unable to leave shelters after emission until player arrived - **fixed** — Fix NPC stuck in place after being revived from wounded state - **fixed** — Fix neutral NPCs not reacting to surrounding combat - **fixed** — Fix lair at Rostok location spawning massive amount of NPCs - **fixed** — Fix NPC dying instantly when player approaches Mill location - **fixed** — Fix NPCs at Kazkovyi unable to hide during emission Back to the Zone — Update 2.0 is our biggest overhaul to how the Zone looks, feels, and lives since launch. The technical work here runs deeper than usual — including a significant engine upgrade — and alongside it, we've packed in features stalkers have been asking for, over 500 bug fixes, and a few things we've been wanting to show you for a while. ##### **☢️**Highlights - Engine Upgrade to Unreal Engine 5.5.4 - Visual Evolution - Improved lighting, shadows, and reflections - Reworked the landscape and foliage to look more natural - A-life improvements A-Life now simulates more believable behaviour — the Zone isn't one constant gunfight. It's a lonely place where life carries on by its own rules, and every encounter or firefight is the result of stalkers and mutants simply doing stalker and mutant things. In practice: living creatures now have more places to be. More campfires, bus stops, and other points of interest are contested between stalkers and mutants. Stalkers across the Zone loot the fallen all the time — not just when you're around to see it. We've also done plenty of under-the-hood work that wasn't strictly A-Life but certainly felt like it: enemies occasionally shooting or throwing things through walls, sudden overpopulation of certain areas, and dozens of other fixes. - Binoculars Not one, but three types of binoculars are now at a stalker's disposal. Try FOB-45, “Yastrub,” and “Fighter” and see what works best for you in terms of price/quality. - New weapons and scopes New toys keep getting smuggled through the Perimeter wall somehow: - Arev (AR), - GP3A (DMR), - SKP (DMR), - Fora-230 (SMG). Better to try them yourself than have us explain how they handle in combat. And somewhere in the Zone, you'll even find a unique variant of one of them. Your scope options have widened too: a new x3 scope for Western-bloc weapons and a new red dot sight for Eastern ones. Customise your loadout to fit your playstyle! Oh, and offset aiming is no longer limited to NVGs. - Fog mechanic As well as reworked cloudy and rainy weather. - PDA's new "Statistics" page - “Custom Rules” difficulty - New places to visit in Prypiat. ##### 🛠️🐞⚡ Bug Fixes, Crashes, and Performance We did lots of work fixing “anomalies” that aren’t supposed to be here when you return Back to the Zone. ##### AI - Fixed an issue when items possessed by telekinetic mutants ability were able to fly through hard surfaces. - Fixed an issue when Prof. Lodochka was teleporting from the shelter during the emissions. - Fixed an issue when some NPCs were unable to leave some shelters after the emission until the player came to them. - Fixed an issue when an NPC was stuck in one place after being revived from a wounded state. - Fixed an issue when neutral NPCs were not reacting to the surrounding combat. - Fixed an issue where the lair at the Rostok location could spawn a massive amount of NPCs. - Fixed an issue that caused NPC to die instantly when a player approaches the Mill location. - Fixed an issue preventing NPCs at Kazkovyi from hiding during emission. ##### UI / Controls / Input - Fixed an issue with the wrong naming of the effect for the "Protective coating" upgrade on the SSP-100 Survey armor. - Fixed an issue where the actions for "O" and "Y" buttons were not remappable. - Fixed an issue where the message about losing progress could appear after attempting to close the game from the main menu. - Fixed an issue when inputs were sometimes locked after an attempt to close the personal stash. - Fixed an issue when the player was losing all input after trying to use a ladder while being overweight. - Fixed an issue where custom key bindings for num 1 and num 3 were not functional during the aiming. - Fixed an issue where the cursor could remain on the screen after closing the PDA. - Fixed an issue where the collimator sight could not be attached to the weapon using a gamepad. - Fixed an issue that caused firing mode _[Truncated at 4000 characters — full notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/677381523352060387]_ ### Content Update Sealed Truth — a new questline for you to explore - Date: 2026-04-14 - Original notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/508484486901535665 - Permalink: https://whatsnew.fyi/product/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-heart-of-chornobyl/releases/2026-04-14-content-update-sealed-truth-a-new-questline-for-y - Labels: Platforms: Windows, Xbox - **added** — Explore a new questline that starts when you talk to Diode - **added** — Add new loading screens - **fixed** — Fixed an issue causing overpopulation of strong mutant types in long campaigns - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where the mission 'Dark as a Dungeon' would immediately cancel if the player had already reached the point of no return ##### **Sealed Truth is focused around the new questline. Explore the places of horrific experiments and find the answers. With calculated risks, you can get your hands on… Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. ** ##### **☢️ **What’s new - Explore a new questline that starts when you talk to Diode. - Fixed an issue causing overpopulation of strong mutant types in long campaigns. - Fixed an issue where the mission 'Dark as a Dungeon' would immediately cancel if the player had already reached the point of no return. - Added new loading screens. _The update is available after completing the story quest "Hot on the Trail" and before starting the quest "A Minor Incident"._** ⚠️ WARNING** The Zone is ever-changing, and a new update can shift Her structure. If you’ve chosen to walk the path with modifications, know this: they may not withstand the latest shifts. **If you have performance or stability issues following the release of Sealed Truth, we recommend you to disable your mods**. If you continue to experience issues, please visit [https://support.stalker2.com/hc](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) for additional troubleshooting steps and assistance. For more information on how to correctly uninstall modifications, read the dedicated topic: Thanks for your support and feedback. The Zone keeps improving and evolving. Stay tuned and keep sharing your feedback on our social media. It’s time to put those combat improvements to the test. Please, if you face an unexpected “anomaly”, that is not supposed to be in the game, report it to our Technical Support Center. Our colleagues will take a closer look at it to annihilate and destroy the danger to the Zone. [https://support.stalker2.com/hc](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) [ ](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) ### Stories Untold — Content update: new characters, missions, locations & more. - Date: 2025-12-17 - Original notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/519732795817328984 - Permalink: https://whatsnew.fyi/product/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-heart-of-chornobyl/releases/2025-12-17-stories-untold-content-update-new-characters-miss - Labels: Platforms: Windows, Xbox - **added** — Added over five hours of gameplay featuring new storyline centered on a mysterious transmission causing headaches, nosebleeds, and hallucinations in stalkers - **added** — Added 8 new missions unlocked after leaving the Zalissya region - **added** — Added 7 new explorable locations with some previously empty areas now populated by stalkers - **added** — Added 6 new characters to encounter during the new storyline - **added** — Added 3 new unique items obtainable through the new questline - **added** — Added GP37V2 rifle, a modified version of the GP37 featuring a pre-installed suppressor, low-magnification scope, and single and burst fire modes only - **added** — Added option to enable Manual Save system in settings when playing on Master difficulty or with Expedition mode enabled, allowing saves via Quick Save and regular menu save - **added** — Added ability to create a new hub in the Burnt Forest region as a potential outcome of the new questline - **changed** — Simplified save system options for Master difficulty and Expedition mode playthroughs - **changed** — Optimized multiple mutant models - **changed** — Adjusted dead zone settings for DualSense controller on PC - **fixed** — Fixed issue where multiple artifacts could spawn in one place - **fixed** — Fixed issue where NPC could not find a way to the shelter during an Emission at the Cement Factory location - **fixed** — Fixed issue where NPC could not find a way to the shelter during an Emission in Zalissya - **fixed** — Fixed issue that could cause massive mutant hordes to spawn at the Plant location of the Garbage region - **fixed** — Fixed issue where the player could obtain the Heart of Chornobyl artifact from regular anomalies ##### Stalkers, welcome to Stories Untold, the free content update for S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl. ##### Let’s go through everything new you can find in your playthrough, starting with. ## ##### NEW STORIES Over five hours of gameplay have been added, depending on your pace. Discover the mysterious transmission that gives stalkers headaches, nosebleeds, and even hallucinations. As the story unfolds, you can choose to help the stalkers and scientists figure out what’s going on. Make decisions, fight for what you believe in, search for answers, and more. You can catch a PDA message anywhere on the map, with the biggest chance around the Burnt Forest. How you deal with it will shape the fates of stalkers you meet. This mission will become available after leaving the Zalissya region in the early stages of the game. This new storyline brings to life 8 new missions, 7 new locations, 6 new characters, 3 new unique items, unique weapon, and more. ##### NEW LOCATIONS & NEW HUB Speaking of new locations, if you decide to explore untold stories, you are going to visit and explore new places. They are free to explore for everyone in the Zone, some locations that were previously occupied only by rusty metal or mutants are now used by stalkers. The storyline also might lead you to creating a new hub in the Burnt Forest region. The new place on the map will draw the stalker's attention, so you can expect the whole area to become more populated. But again, this outcome of the quest is not granted. You may choose to play another way. ##### NEW WEAPON The GP37V2 is a modified version of the GP37 rifle, crafted for the most tactically proficient players. It features a pre-installed suppressor and a low-magnification scope. The trigger group has been modified to support single and burst fire modes only. The cost of failure is higher, but in the hands of a skillful operator, the GP37V2 can reward you with its precision and power. This thing you can get during the completion of the questline. ##### MASTER DIFFICULTY AND EXPEDITION MODE SIMPLIFICATION This change allows you to simplify the save system if you want to play on “Master” difficulty or any other difficulty with the “Expedition mode” enabled. After starting the game (if Master difficulty or difficulty with Expedition mode enabled is selected), you can enable the Manual Save system in the settings menu. This option is enabled once and permanently (for the current playthrough) and allows you to save with: - Quick Save (F5). - Regular Manual Save via the menu. If these saves are enabled, the player's progress status, which is displayed in the Pause menu, will change. ##### ADDITIONAL FIXES - Fixed an issue where multiple artifacts could spawn in one place. - Optimized multiple mutant models. - Fixed an issue where NPC could not find a way to the shelter during an Emission at the Cement Factory location. - Fixed an issue where NPC could not find a way to the shelter during an Emission in Zalissya. - Fixed an issue that could cause massive mutant hordes to spawn at the Plant location of the Garbage region. - Adjusted dead zone settings for DualSense controller on PC. - Fixed an issue where the player could obtain the Heart of Chornobyl artifact from the regular anomalies. **⚠️ WARNING** The Zone is ever-changing, and a new Update can shift Her structure. If you’ve chosen to walk the path with modifications, know this: they may not withstand the latest shifts. **If you have performance or stability issues following the release of Stories Untold, we recommend you to disable your mods**. If you continue to experience issues, please visit [https://support.stalker2.com/hc](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) for additional troubleshooting steps and assistance. Thanks for your support and feedback. The Zone keeps improving and evolving. Stay tuned and keep sharing your feedback on our social media. We can’t wait to hear tales about your adventures with Stories Unto _[Truncated at 4000 characters — full notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/519732795817328984]_ ### Stalkers! Patch 1.7.1 is ready to be downloaded. - Date: 2025-12-08 - Original notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/530990439685161475 - Permalink: https://whatsnew.fyi/product/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-heart-of-chornobyl/releases/2025-12-08-stalkers-patch-1.7.1-is-ready-to-be-downloaded - Labels: Platforms: Windows, Xbox - **added** — Introduce fail-safe mechanism for cases where mod incompatibility prevents users from launching title - **fixed** — Fix an issue where the power lines could disappear on approach - **fixed** — Fix an issue where the Ward NPC could teleport in the player's field of view after killing noontiders during the Wishful Thinking mission - **fixed** — Fix an issue where the Ward soldiers could not help Skif to hold position during the Assault On The Duga mission - **fixed** — Fix a massive performance drop on opening PDA while the Shadows option is set to Epic - **fixed** — Fix an issue where the player could sprint while overweighted with loot - **fixed** — Fix an issue where the player could observe texture flickering on the staircase after the cutscene during the Back To The Slag Heap mission - **fixed** — Fix an issue where the player could have visual artifacts on Richter during the cinematic in the The Price Goes Up mission - **fixed** — Fix shadows on Skif's hands during the cutscene in the Back To The Slag Heap mission - **fixed** — Fix an issue where the player could use weapon attachments from the trade window - **fixed** — Fix an issue where the settings values could be displayed incorrectly after using the auto-detect or reset settings features - **fixed** — Fix an issue that could cause artifacts to spawn under the ground - **fixed** — Fix several issues with dead zone settings for the DualSense controller - **fixed** — Fix crashes ##### Hello, stalkers! In update 1.7.1, we exterminated some pesky anomalies, especially underground ones that were stealing artifacts from the Zone, and returned the missing power lines. - Introduced fail-safe mechanism for cases where mod incompatibility prevents users from launching title - Fixed an issue where the power lines could disappear on approach. - Fixed an issue where the Ward NPC could teleport in the player's field of view after killing noontiders during the _Wishful Thinking_ mission. - Fixed an issue where the Ward soldiers could not help Skif to hold position during the _Assault On The Duga_ mission. - Fixed a massive performance drop on opening PDA while the Shadows option is set to Epic. - Fixed an issue where the player could sprint while overweighted with loot. - Fixed an issue where the player could observe texture flickering on the staircase after the cutscene during the _Back To The Slag Heap_ mission. - Fixed an issue where the player could have visual artifacts on Richter during the cinematic in the _The Price Goes Up_ mission. - Fixed shadows on Skif's hands during the cutscene in the _Back To The Slag Heap_ mission. - Fixed an issue where the player could use weapon attachments from the trade window. - Fixed an issue where the settings values could be displayed incorrectly after using the auto-detect or reset settings features. - Fixed an issue that could cause artifacts to spawn under the ground. - Fixed several issues with dead zone settings for the DualSense controller. - Fixed crashes. Thank you very much for your ongoing feedback and support. Comments you write on social media and bug reports you send to the Technical Support Hub help the Zone become a better place with each update. Please, continue sharing your thoughts here on Steam and other socials, and if you see the anomaly that is not supposed to be in the Zone, report it to the Technical Support Hub: [https://support.stalker2.com/hc](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) ### Update 1.7 Expedition - Date: 2025-11-17 - Original notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/596291616874954993 - Permalink: https://whatsnew.fyi/product/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-heart-of-chornobyl/releases/2025-11-17-update-1.7-expedition - Labels: Platforms: Windows, Xbox - **added** — Add Master Difficulty mode that can only be selected at the beginning of the game - **added** — Add Expedition Mode - **added** — Add new anomalies - **added** — Add Immersive Mode - **added** — Add Light Rainy weather scenario - **added** — Add SD Cards with coupons - **changed** — Improve A-Life system so factions can expand control over new territories and lose control if they fail to defend them - **changed** — Update NPC vision and combat behavior - **changed** — Update inventory and equipment stats - **changed** — Rework stamina and sprint mechanics - **changed** — Improve controller aim - **changed** — Reduce enemy detection and accuracy in tall grass, reeds, and bushes - **changed** — Update mutants and NPCs to retreat from fights when survival chances are low and flank more actively - **changed** — Tweak NPC combat animation timings for more realistic movement - **changed** — Add new death animations for mutants - **fixed** — Fix issues with specific NPC inhabitant areas - **fixed** — Fix A-Life NPCs not moving after loading a save made while they were traveling to shelter - **fixed** — Fix issue when NPCs could receive damage from explosions while behind several walls - **fixed** — Fix issue when some Boar mutants could look like Human NPCs near the Malachite causing game crashes - **fixed** — Fix issue when Controller could attack Zombified and Raised NPCs ##### Stalkers, welcome to the latest update of the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, glad you are back and ready to see all the new shiny toys the Zone got. Let’s go through the changes, starting from the Highlights. ##### **☢️ **Highlights - Fixes and improvements to the A-Life system - Master Difficulty & Expedition Mode (This difficulty level can only be selected at the beginning of the game) - NPC Vision & Combat Update - Inventory & Equipment Stats Update - Stamina and sprint rework - New anomalies - Controller aim improvements - Immersive Mode - Light Rainy weather scenario - SD Cards with coupons **⚠️ WARNING** The Zone is ever-changing, and a new Update can shift Her structure. If you’ve chosen to walk the path with modifications, know this: they may not withstand the latest shifts. **If you have performance or stability issues following the release of Update 1.7, we recommend you to disable your mods**. If you continue to experience issues, please visit [https://support.stalker2.com/hc](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) for additional troubleshooting steps and assistance. For more information on how to correctly uninstall modifications, read the dedicated topic: [https://steamcommunity.com/games/1643320/partnerevents/edit/525346350588494399](https://steamcommunity.com/games/1643320/partnerevents/edit/525346350588494399) ##### **⚔️ **AI and Combat - Numerous fixes and improvements to the A-Life system, so now factions can expand control over new territories. This means they may also lose control over their lands if they fail to defend them. Various points of interest, checkpoints, locations (but not hubs) are in contest between different NPCs and… mutants! They also want to defend their lairs and territories from their very unfriendly stalker-neighbours. - With Update 1.7, enemies have real problems detecting you in tall grass or reeds, and are much less accurate when shooting through the bushes. Swamp shootouts will feel fair at last! You can now use the greenery to your full advantage, but be cautious – the closer you are to an enemy, the more likely you are to be spotted. Mutants and NPCs have also learned to retreat from the fight if they realize that chances for survival are low. They will also try to flank more actively, and choose a distance to fight from that best suits their weapon. It’s also worth noting that NPC combat animation timings were slightly tweaked to make their movement more realistic. Oh, and mutants have also received new death animations! - Fixed some issues with specific NPC inhabitant areas. - Improved AI reaction to player's hostile actions. - NPC behavior during Emission optimization. - Fixed an issue that caused NPCs to occasionally move to the side after detecting an enemy - Fixed an issue when A-life NPCs didn't move after loading a save that were made on their way to shelter. - Fixed an issue when the NPCs could get damage from explosions while being behind several walls. - Fixed the issue when some Boar mutants could look like Human NPCs near the Malachite, causing the game to crash. - Fixed the issue when Controller could attack Zombified and Raised NPCs. - Fixed the issue when the NPCs weren't reacting to the shots from Gauss rifle that were landed near them. - Adjusted Combat behavior of bandits in Prologue mission. - Fixed death animations for mutants in some specific cases. - Fixed the issue when the NPCs weren't returning to their stay destination point after the sudden combat. - Fixed the issue when the random neutral Stalkers were becoming the enemy to the Player character. - Fixed an issue that caused NPCs to get stuck in a weapon draw animation loop. - Fixed an issue when NPCs were unable to shoot the Player after they get too close to them while crouched. - Fixed an issue where mutants could change their position during jump midair. - Fixed an issue when some NPCs were not hiding from the emission and die from in Zalissya location. # _[Truncated at 4000 characters — full notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/596291616874954993]_ ### Update 1.6 Night of the Hunter is live! - Date: 2025-09-23 - Original notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/511843796724483378 - Permalink: https://whatsnew.fyi/product/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-heart-of-chornobyl/releases/2025-09-23-update-1.6-night-of-the-hunter-is-live - Labels: Platforms: Windows, Xbox - **added** — Night Vision Goggles - **changed** — Night vision rebalance for NPCs - **added** — Offset Aiming and Laser Pointer - **changed** — Updates to combat system and long-ranged battles - **added** — NPCs can now loot mutants - **added** — New anomaly: Fireball - **changed** — Tweaks to the controller inputs - **added** — New face and hair options for female characters - **added** — Local Save Backup Restoration option - **changed** — Rebalanced loot in stashes throughout the Zone - **added** — Auto-Lean Disable option in controls settings - **added** — Player stash items can now be sorted - **added** — New unique weapon: Honta's Drahunka - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where NPCs would take low cover behind trees incorrectly - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where squad leaders nearby would all shout the same phrase simultaneously after a fight - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where zombie NPCs could freeze midair after being headshotted - **changed** — Improved Chimera combat behavior - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where Chimera could get stuck after performing a jump attack ##### Stalkers! Welcome to the latest update of the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, glad you are back and ready to see all the new shiny toys the Zone got. Let’s go through the changes, starting from the Highlights. ##### **☢️ **Highlights - Night Vision Goggles - Night vision rebalance for NPCs - Offset Aiming and Laser Pointer - Updates to combat system and long-ranged battles - NPCs can now loot mutants - New anomaly: Fireball - Return of the old friend - Tweaks to the controller inputs - New face and hair options for female characters - Local Save Backup Restoration option - Rebalanced loot in stashes throughout the Zone. - Added Auto-Lean Disable option in controls settings. - Player stash items can now be sorted. - Added a new unique weapon: Honta's "Drahunka" **⚠️ WARNING** The Zone is ever-changing, and a new Update can shift Her structure. If you’ve chosen to walk the path with modifications, know this: they may not withstand the latest shifts. **If you have performance or stability issues following the release of Update 1.6, we recommend you to disable your mods**. If you continue to experience issues, please visit [https://support.stalker2.com/hc](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) for additional troubleshooting steps and assistance. For more information on how to correctly uninstall modifications, read the dedicated topic: [https://steamcommunity.com/games/1643320/partnerevents/edit/525346350588494399](https://steamcommunity.com/games/1643320/partnerevents/edit/525346350588494399) ##### **⚔️ **AI and Combat - Fixed an issue where NPCs would take low cover behind trees incorrectly. - Fixed an issue where squad leaders nearby would all shout the same phrase simultaneously after a fight. - Fixed an issue where zombie NPCs could freeze midair after being headshotted. - Improved Chimera combat behavior. - Fixed an issue where Chimera could get stuck after performing a jump attack. - Fixed an issue where Chimera and Snork could jump through objects if the player was standing on top of them. - Fixed an animation issue with Bloodsucker arms during melee attacks. - Fixed an issue where Bloodsuckers could remain permanently invisible when not attacking. - Fixed an issue where Pseudodog clones would get stuck if spawned during a Retreat action. - Fixed an issue where Burers and Poltergeists were unable to use their throw ability. - Fixed an issue where Pseudogiant stomp could damage player in the air. ##### **⚖️ **Balance - Fixed an issue where the Mercenary’s Light Suit could weigh 0.0 kg after upgrades. - Adjusted the weight of the Veteran rifle. - Increased the damage of the Predator shotgun to match its description. - Fixed an issue where the Flytrap artifact effect did not provide weight reduction. - Increased HP for boar mutants. - Reduced HP for pseudogiant mutants. - Adjusted the upgrade tree for Kora. - Fixed an issue where Kora’s extended magazine was missing from the Zone and unavailable for the player to find. ##### **🛠️🐞⚡ **Bug Fixes, Crashes, and Performance - Fixed an issue where Players could have incorrect rotation after teleporting via the Spatial Bubble anomaly. - Polished headgear on multiple NPC presets. - Fixed an issue where Zombies were unable to stand up during Scar’s boss fight. - Fixed an issue where Burers could constantly turn back and forth during combat. - Added missing combat barks for Bandits, Free Stalkers, and Military factions. - Fixed an issue where hostile NPCs did not react when the Player fired a PM nearby. - Fixed an issue where a hostile Mercenary Sniper could follow the Player across the entire map after the Underpass Exit encounter in the Rostok region. - Fixed an issue where A-Life NPC actions were interrupted and inconsistent after saving/loading. - Applied CPU optimization tweaks. - Optimized projectile performance. - Fixed a freeze that occurred when exiting the 100 Rads Bar. - Fixed a freeze at SIRCAA during the _Wishf _[Truncated at 4000 characters — full notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/511843796724483378]_ ### ☢️ Patch 1.5.3 is here to stop unintended NPC tricks! - Date: 2025-08-18 - Original notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/670592606916313722 - Permalink: https://whatsnew.fyi/product/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-heart-of-chornobyl/releases/2025-08-18-patch-1.5.3-is-here-to-stop-unintended-npc-tricks - Labels: Platforms: Windows, Xbox - **fixed** — Fixed an issue that caused mutants to teleport during the attack - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where NPCs could spawn in the air - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where bloodsuckers could spawn in large groups and too often - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where the door to the Skadovsk hub could be permanently closed - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where some A-Life NPCs could spawn in the quest areas - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where some NPCs could spawn in the radiation field on the Slag Heap - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where the subtitles for the intro cinematic were out of sync - **fixed** — Fixed mistakes in the credits - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where the interact dots could be missing for some items - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where the sound could be corrupted during the credits on Xbox - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where some NPCs could spawn in unexpected places - **fixed** — Fixed a bug where the left arm of an NPC could be twisted when they were only holding a pistol - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where the HUD widgets could be displayed while PDA is open on the ultra-wide monitors - **fixed** — Fixed 4 crashes Stalkers, we are back with the new fixes. Here is the full list of changes: - Fixed an issue that caused mutants to teleport during the attack. - Fixed an issue where NPCs could spawn in the air. - Fixed an issue where bloodsuckers could spawn in large groups and too often. - Fixed an issue where the door to the Skadovsk hub could be permanently closed. - Fixed an issue where some A-Life NPCs could spawn in the quest areas. - Fixed an issue where some NPCs could spawn in the radiation field on the Slag Heap. - Fixed an issue where the subtitles for the intro cinematic were out of sync. - Fixed mistakes in the credits. - Fixed an issue where the interact dots could be missing for some items. - Fixed an issue where the sound could be corrupted during the credits on Xbox. - Fixed an issue where some NPCs could spawn in unexpected places. - Fixed a bug where the left arm of an NPC could be twisted when they were only holding a pistol. - Fixed an issue where the HUD widgets could be displayed while PDA is open on the ultra-wide monitors. - 4 crashes fixed. Your reports keep the Zone safer. Every bug you flag, every detail you share on social media or in the Technical Support Hub, helps us track new anomalies. Keep your eyes open, and if you see something that doesn’t belong, let us know here: 🔗 [https://support.stalker2.com/hc ](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) Good hunting, stalkers! ⚠️ **WARNING** The Zone is ever-changing and a new Patch can shift Her structure. If you’ve chosen to walk the path with modifications, know this: they may not withstand the latest shifts. If you have performance or stability issues following the release of Patch 1.5.2, we recommend you to disable your mods. For more information on how to correctly uninstall modifications, read the dedicated topic: ### Patch 1.5.2 is ready to open the doors for stalkers! - Date: 2025-07-24 - Original notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/525349521441423420 - Permalink: https://whatsnew.fyi/product/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-heart-of-chornobyl/releases/2025-07-24-patch-1.5.2-is-ready-to-open-the-doors-for-stalke - Labels: Platforms: Windows, Xbox - **fixed** — Fixed an issue when a door to the Shevchenko hub was closed - **fixed** — Fixed two crashes that could occur randomly during gameplay ##### ☢️ Patch 1.5.2 is ready to be downloaded, here is the full list of changes: - Fixed an issue when a door to the Shevchenko hub was closed. - Fixed two crashes that could occur randomly during gameplay. Thanks a lot for your continuous feedback and support. Comments you write in Social Media and bug reports you send to the Technical Support Hub help the Zone become a better place with each update. Please, continue sharing your thoughts here on Steam and other socials, and if you see the anomaly that is not supposed to be in the Zone — report it to the Technical Support Hub: [https://support.stalker2.com/hc](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) Good hunting, stalkers! ##### ⚠️ **WARNING** The Zone is ever-changing and a new Patch can shift Her structure. If you’ve chosen to walk the path with modifications, know this: they may not withstand the latest shifts. **If you have performance or stability issues following the release of Patch 1.5.2, we recommend you to disable your mods**. For more information on how to correctly uninstall modifications, read the dedicated topic: ### We've rolled out patch 1.5.1 for S.T.A.L.K.E.R.2: Heart of Chornobyl - Date: 2025-07-09 - Original notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/525346984576422254 - Permalink: https://whatsnew.fyi/product/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-heart-of-chornobyl/releases/2025-07-09-we-ve-rolled-out-patch-1.5.1-for-s.t.a.l.k.e.r.2 - Labels: Platforms: Windows, Xbox - **fixed** — Bloodsuckers no longer spawn inside hubs with stalkers - **fixed** — NPCs no longer fly away after headshots - **fixed** — Fixed an issue when some NPCs didn't go to shelter in offline mode during Emission - **fixed** — Fixed an issue when interacting hints could disappear after save/load - **fixed** — Fixed issue when NPC could get stuck walking in one place - **fixed** — Fixed an issue where two bandits at Varan's camp attacked Player without any reason during King Of The Hill mission - **fixed** — Fixed an issue when Player was able to leave X-17 lab via elevator without any way to return during Visions Of Truth mission - **fixed** — Fixed an issue when NPC corpses could get misplaced after picking it up for the second time - **changed** — Adjusted position of money and weight indicator icon in Player inventory - **fixed** — Fixed an issue when Faust could freeze during his bossfight after his emitter was destroyed during special attack ability - **fixed** — Fixed an issue when the context menu was impossible to open twice for the same item in the looting window - **fixed** — Fixed an issue when an NPC's corpse could fly away after killing them with a headshot - **fixed** — Fixed 2 EXCEPTION_ACCESS_VIOLATION crashes - **fixed** — Fixed an issue when The Assault On The Duga mission could be stuck if the player had slept before talking to Scar - **fixed** — Fixed an issue when the FOV value automatically resets to 110 on ultra wide monitors - **fixed** — Fixed an issue when the A-life mutants and NPCs could be found in the restricted areas such as Hubs and Main Quest locations - **fixed** — Fixed an issue when the NPC's left hand could be in an improper position when the NPC holds a pistol - **fixed** — Fixed an issue when NPCs could stuck in each other during patrolling - **fixed** — Fixed an issue when the Windows Scale option affected the game in the Fullscreen Borderless and Windowed modes - **fixed** — Fixed an issue when Scherba could not have a dialog option to receive collars during In The Name Of Science mission ##### Hello, stalkers! ☢️ We are fixing the Zone once again and are ready to share what we’ve been working on in the Patch 1.5.1.** **Chaos hour is over — bloodsuckers are no longer invited to party with stalkers inside hubs (they can’t behave after a few shots at the bar), and NPCs no longer fly away after particularly skillful headshots. - Fixed an issue when some NPCs didn't go to shelter in offline mode during Emission. - Fixed an issue when interacting hints could disappear after save/load. - Fixed issue when NPC could get stuck walking in one place. - Fixed an issue where two bandits at Varan's camp attacked Player without any reason during the _King Of The Hill_ mission. - Fixed an issue when Player was able to leave X-17 lab via elevator without any way to return during _Visions Of Truth_ mission. - Fixed an issue when NPC corpses could get misplaced after picking it up for the second time. - Adjusted position of money and weight indicator icon in Player inventory. - Fixed an issue when Faust could freeze during his bossfight after his emitter was destroyed during special attack ability. - Fixed an issue when the context menu was impossible to open twice for the same item in the looting window. - Fixed an issue when an NPC's corpse could fly away after killing them with a headshot. - Fixed 2 EXCEPTION_ACCESS_VIOLATION crashes. - Fixed an issue when the _The Assault On The Duga_ mission could be stuck if the player had slept before talking to Scar. - Fixed an issue when the FOV value automatically resets to 110 on ultra wide monitors. - Fixed an issue when the A-life mutants and NPCs could be found in the restricted areas (such as Hubs, Main Quest locations, etc.). - Fixed an issue when the NPC's left hand could be in an improper position when the NPC holds a pistol. - Fixed an issue when NPCs could stuck in each other during patrolling. - Fixed an issue when the Windows Scale option affected the game in the Fullscreen Borderless and Windowed modes. - Fixed an issue when Scherba could not have a dialog option to receive collars during the _In The Name Of Science_ mission. - Zone Kit: New MOD SDK update will support content base from Patch 1.5.1. Please update to get latest content changes and reduce chances of game instability for your Modifications ##### ⚠️ **WARNING** The Zone is ever-changing and a new Patch can shift Her structure. If you’ve chosen to walk the path with modifications, know this: they may not withstand the latest shifts. **If you have performance or stability issues following the release of Patch 1.5.1, we recommend you to disable your mods**. If you continue to experience issues, please visit [https://support.stalker2.com/hc](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) for additional troubleshooting steps and assistance. For more information on how to correctly uninstall modifications, read the dedicated topic: Thank you very much for your ongoing feedback and support. Comments you write on social media and bug reports you send to the Technical Support Hub help the Zone become a better place with each update. Please, continue sharing your thoughts here on Steam and other socials, and if you see the anomaly that is not supposed to be in the Zone, report it to the Technical Support Hub:[https://support.stalker2.com/hc](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) ## ⛱🌴☀️ Also, this is your final opportunity to grab **S.T.A.L.K.E.R.2: Heart of Chornobyl with a 30% discount during the Steam Summer Sale 2025**. ##### The sale will conclude on July 10th. ### Patch 1.5 Guns & Looting is live — new threats, new loot, and more 🌪️ - Date: 2025-06-25 - Original notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/525346350588494399 - Permalink: https://whatsnew.fyi/product/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-heart-of-chornobyl/releases/2025-06-25-patch-1.5-guns-looting-is-live-new-threats-new-lo - Labels: Platforms: Windows, Xbox - **changed** — A-Life simulation now extends to all characters in the Zone, not just those in the player's view - **changed** — Characters continue to pursue their goals and live their lives until they meet their end - **changed** — Characters no longer respawn directly in front of the player - **changed** — A-Life Director respawn moved further away from the player while maintaining Zone population - **changed** — Visualization range slightly increased with relevant animations and equipped weapons to reduce pop-in effect - **added** — New anomaly: Water Electric Tornado - **added** — Three-Line Rifle weapon - **added** — New handgun Kora - **added** — Looting of mutant parts - **added** — Display of available artifact slots for armors in the Upgrade tab - **changed** — Player stash window increased in size - **fixed** — Take all button becomes inactive after putting any item to the loot window - **added** — Unlockable Fix all button in the technician's upgrade menu to repair all equipped gear - **added** — Reload renewal feature for all weapons - **fixed** — Snork unable to jump off from some isolated areas - **fixed** — Controller able to deal damage by roar ability out of line of sight through objects and walls - **fixed** — Pseudogiant stuck at short distances from the player - **fixed** — Rodents kept making sounds after death - **added** — Ballistic falloff on long distances for NPCs so they cannot hit players while too far away - **changed** — Improved mutants' attacking behavior when player is standing still ##### Stalkers! Time to reload your shotgun and pack your backpack with new weapons and loot from mutants. The latest update brings improvements to A-life and AI, balance tweaks, quality-of-life upgrades, and much more. Time is coupons, so let’s quickly check out what’s new in the Zone and gear up for the next raid for some sweet habar. For the release of Patch 1.5, we have prepared a trailer for this update — **Guns & Looting Showcase** is here! ## ☢️ Highlights - A-Life changes - Life in the Zone is now simulated for all characters, not just those in the player's view. - Characters continue to live their lives and pursue their goals in the Zone until they meet their end. - The player can meet the same stalkers after some time. - Players may encounter more A-Life characters resting or interacting in various locations, adding to the world’s immersion. - Characters will no longer respawn directly in front of the player. When the player clears the mutants' lair, for example, those mutants won't simply reappear moments later. - A-Life Director will no longer respawn characters at the edge of visualization. Instead, respawn moved further away from the player, while maintaining the Zone's population. - Visualization range is slightly increased. Characters now appear in visualization range with relevant animations and equipped weapons. This reduces the "pop-in" effect and contributes to a more seamless character visualization. - Added new anomaly: Water Electric Tornado.🌪️ - Added Three-Line Rifle weapon. - Added new handgun Kora. - Added the new feature: looting of mutant parts. - Added displaying of available artifact slots for armors in the Upgrade tab. - The player stash window is increased in size. - Fixed an issue when the "Take all" button becomes inactive after putting any item to the loot window. - Added unlockable "Fix all" button in the technician's upgrade menu, to repair all equipped gear. - Added reload renewal feature for all of the weapons. ##### ⚠️ **WARNING** The Zone is ever-changing and a new Patch can shift Her structure. If you’ve chosen to walk the path with modifications, know this: they may not withstand the latest shifts. **If you have performance or stability issues following the release of Patch 1.5, we recommend you to disable your mods**. If you continue to experience issues, please visit [https://support.stalker2.com/hc](https://support.stalker2.com/hc) for additional troubleshooting steps and assistance. For more information on how to correctly uninstall modifications, read the dedicated topic: ##### ⚔️ AI and Combat - Fixed an issue when Snork was unable to jump off from some isolated areas. - Fixed an issue when Controller was able to deal damage by his roar ability out of his line of sight, through the objects and walls. - Fixed an issue when Pseudogiant was able to stuck at short distances from the player. - Fixed an issue when Rodents kept making sounds after death. - Added ballistic falloff on the long distances for NPC`s so they won’t be able to hit players while too far away. - Improved mutants' attacking behavior when Player is standing still. - Fixed issue where Сhimera jump attack deals damage before reaching Player. - Fixed issue where Burer could be killed while its shield was active if you were close. - Fixed issue when NPCs take exposed cover while fighting with each other. - Fixed issue where NPCs could walk in place in peaceful hubs. ##### ⚖️ Balance - Fixed generic issue where Mission NPC could have overpowered items in inventory. - Reworked ammo for machine guns and sniper rifles: - replaced 762x39 MM ammo with 762x54 MM ammo; - Sniper rifles (SVDM-2, SVU-MK S-3 and M701 Super) now don't use light steel core ammo, without weapon upgrade — only super-sonic and armor piercing ammo; - PKP machine guns, Mark I EMR and Three-Line Rifle can use light steel core ammo by default; - supersonic ammo now deals way less damage to weapon durability, maki _[Truncated at 4000 characters — full notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/525346350588494399]_ ### Patch 1.4.2 enters the Zone! - Date: 2025-05-29 - Original notes: https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1643320/view/525344448442270465 - Permalink: https://whatsnew.fyi/product/s-t-a-l-k-e-r-2-heart-of-chornobyl/releases/2025-05-29-patch-1.4.2-enters-the-zone - Labels: Platforms: Windows, Xbox - **changed** — Lowered armor piercing multiplier for 9x18 ammo - **fixed** — Fixed camera movement sensitivity being too low on low framerate when using gamepads as input devices - **fixed** — Fixed mutants shaking and twitching erratically when investigating a threat - **fixed** — Fixed consumable items being duplicated in quick slots and appearing as available despite not being present in inventory - **fixed** — Fixed radiocall with Strelok not triggering and next objective not triggering if player hadn't killed all Wardens at TCS location during Dangerous Liaisons mission - **fixed** — Fixed Scar getting stuck playing confused animation after being killed during bossfight in The Last Step mission - **fixed** — Fixed Sanya Ocheret starting combat with stalkers in his squad during The Boundary mission - **fixed** — Fixed doors to Duga's underground tunnel and Location D being locked on user saves during Once More Unto The Breach mission ##### Patch 1.4.2 is ready to be downloaded. Here is the full list of changes: - Balance changes: lowered armor piercing multiplier for 9x18 ammo. - Fixed an issue where camera movement sensitivity was too low on low framerate when using gamepads as input devices. - Fixed an issue where mutants were shaking and twitching erratically when investigating a threat. - Fixed an issue where consumable items were duplicated in quick slots, and appeared as available, despite not being present in Player's inventory. - Fixed an issue where radiocall with Strelok was not triggered and next objective didn't trigger if Player hadn't killed all Wardens at TCS location during Dangerous Liaisons mission. - Fixed an issue where Scar could get stuck playing confused animation after killing him during bossfight in The Last Step mission. - Fixed an issue where Sanya Ocheret could start a combat with stalkers in his squad during The Boundary mission. - Fixed an issue where doors to Duga's underground tunnel and Location D could be locked on user saves during Once More Unto The Breach mission. Thanks a lot for your continuous feedback and support. Comments you write in Social Media and bug reports you send to the Technical Support Hub help the Zone become a better place with each update. Please, continue sharing your thoughts here on Steam and other socials, and if you see the anomaly that is not supposed to be in the Zone — report it to the Technical Support Hub: https://support.stalker2.com/hc