6
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321
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Recent reviews by Joe Bateman

Showing 1-6 of 6 entries
No one has rated this review as helpful yet
27.6 hrs on record (17.5 hrs at review time)
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl – A Fan's Dream Come True

If you’re a fan of the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series, the Strugatsky brothers’ book Roadside Picnic, or the eerie, immersive Zone itself, then S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl feels like coming home—if "home" is a hauntingly beautiful, radiation-soaked wasteland filled with danger, mystery, and dark beauty.

With 17 hours of playtime under my belt, I can confidently say that the developers nailed the vibe. The gameplay, atmosphere, and attention to detail are spot on, bringing that unique S.T.A.L.K.E.R. feel to life. Wandering through the Zone, you’re met with its signature blend of tension and wonder: dynamic firefights, chilling anomalies, and moments of solitude that make you pause to take in the desolate beauty around you.

Characters and Nostalgia
One of the things I love most is how the game brings back so many major characters from the series, giving them meaningful roles that tie into the story. Meeting these familiar faces again felt like reuniting with old comrades. It’s a small touch that truly honors long-time fans and deepens the connection to the universe.

Technical Performance
Technically, the game runs remarkably well on my PC. Despite some minor FPS drops in camps—likely due to the sheer number of NPCs and activity—it’s otherwise smooth and almost bug-free. I was braced for rougher edges given the game's ambition, but the overall polish pleasantly surprised me. The performance issues I’ve encountered haven’t detracted from my enjoyment.

The Living, Breathing Zone
The Zone itself is alive, dangerous, and endlessly fascinating. Every encounter feels meaningful, and the world rewards exploration in ways both big and small. From uncovering secrets in abandoned ruins to narrowly escaping packs of mutated creatures, the Zone constantly keeps you on edge, yet coming back for more.

Final Thoughts
As a huge fan of the series and the broader S.T.A.L.K.E.R. universe, I’m thrilled with Heart of Chornobyl. It’s clear that this game was made by people who understand and care deeply about the legacy of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. While no game is perfect, this one comes pretty close for me.




So, fellow stalkers, grab your gear, ready your bolts, and get back to the Zone. There’s so much waiting for you here.

Now, get out of here, stalker.

Final Rating: 9/10
Posted 7 December, 2024.
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No one has rated this review as helpful yet
15.0 hrs on record (4.6 hrs at review time)
very calm and nice game, love it
Posted 26 November, 2023.
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No one has rated this review as helpful yet
193.7 hrs on record (7.1 hrs at review time)
very immersive and nice game, love the dark western, dead lands and / or lovecraftian style
Posted 8 January, 2021.
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No one has rated this review as helpful yet
30.5 hrs on record (29.7 hrs at review time)
Nice game
Posted 30 June, 2020.
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No one has rated this review as helpful yet
8.3 hrs on record (8.0 hrs at review time)
Coole Grafik , coole Story, Grandioser Sound.. echt schönes Spiel!
Posted 29 June, 2014.
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No one has rated this review as helpful yet
125.9 hrs on record (60.4 hrs at review time)
Wundergeil :D
Posted 26 March, 2014.
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Showing 1-6 of 6 entries