The highly anticipated S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl has faced numerous delays, leaving fans eager for a follow-up to 2007’s S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl. Beyond the typical development challenges, GSC Game World, the Kyiv-based studio behind the game, encountered an unprecedented obstacle: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The studio’s journey through this turbulent period is now documented in War Game: The Making of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2, a 97-minute film available on YouTube.
The documentary initially delves into the history of the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. franchise and GSC Game World. It then pivots to the profound impact of the war on both the game’s development and the lives of the development team. Initially, the reality of a full-scale invasion seemed improbable, but CEO Ievgen Grygorovych and executive producer Mariia Grygorovych proactively organized evacuation plans for their employees. Buses were stationed outside the studio, ready to transport staff, families, and even former employees to the relative safety of Uzhhorod, a city in western Ukraine near the NATO border.
To prevent widespread panic, the evacuation plans were initially kept confidential. Mariia Grygorovych admitted to questioning her own sanity while grappling with the immense responsibility. Team members held diverse perspectives on how to respond to a potential invasion, ranging from volunteering for military service to a steadfast desire to continue working on the game. Ultimately, 183 individuals were evacuated and housed in a hotel, while 139 chose to remain in Kyiv. In February 2022, the team received an early morning summons to the office. Despite the absence of an official attack, they packed essentials, gathered family members, and made their way to Uzhhorod.
A crashed helicopter in S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2.Shortly after the evacuation, Russia launched its assault on Kyiv, the proximity of which shocked the team. One developer recounted being on the verge of retrieving his newborn’s passport when the attack commenced. Another expressed feelings of guilt due to his mother’s refusal to evacuate. The documentary captures the pervasive sense of impending doom, with one developer, Alina, stating, “Subconsciously, we were all ready to die.” Mariia and Ievgen facilitated the passage of willing evacuees to Hungary, while others remained to defend their country. However, the border’s limited operating hours forced many to endure arduous winter treks to cross into safety.
The initial aftermath of the invasion cast doubt on the future of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2. Essential equipment, including a motion capture studio, remained in Kyiv. Communication was disrupted, leaving many developers isolated. One concept artist, Anton, persevered by continuing development with pen and paper from his basement. Despite these immense challenges, GSC Game World established a new office in Prague, recast actors, and provided workspaces for developers still in Ukraine. The game was showcased at Gamescom 2023 but subsequently delayed following lukewarm reception. After further delays, the game is now targeting a November release.
MaagX’s recent preview of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 suggests that the prolonged wait may ultimately be worthwhile.
