Mr Viral
Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl is one of the most anticipated games of 2024, but it could be banned in one country.
The Ukrainian-made title, being developed away from Kyiv by GSC Game World due to the Russian invasion of the country, is launching this month on Xbox and PC after multiple delays.
Stalker 2’s development is finally nearing an end despite the hardships the studio has faced, but it could be banned in Russia when it does arrive if it is found to be ‘justifying terrorism’ – and those found playing could face being branded as terrorists.
Stalker 2 is facing a ban in Russia if it provides anti-Russian messaging
(Image: GSC Game World)
While the game won’t be being sold in Russia, it was expected to be available through digital storefronts – however, it could face a total ban in the country.
State Duma Deputy Anton Gorelki told RIA Novosti, a state-owned news outlet, that the government will seemingly run the rule over the title to determine if it “justifies terrorism”, or includes any “anti-Russian” messaging.
“Tough measures” could be levied against the title if any “extremist” content is included, and gamers in Russia buying it online could face being accused of terrorism by the Russian government.
Stalker 2 launches on November 20, and will be available on Xbox Game Pass. The developer recently released a lengthy deep dive video that you can see above, showcasing the development process and what’s to come in the first-person tactical shooter/survival horror title.
The title was originally revealed back in 2010 for a 2012 release date, before being put on ice until 2014. Development was placed on hold when the Russian invasion of Ukraine began, with the development team fleeing Ukraine or joining up with the Ukrainian army. Since then, the team has been developing the game in Prague, Czech Republic, but have been subject to multiple cyberattacks in the months since – including an early build of the game being made public.
Story Saved
You can find this story in My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.
