S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is set to receive a series of exciting updates in Q2 2025, as announced by the game's developer, GSC Gameworld. The roadmap, which was shared on STALKER's official Twitter (X) on April 14, promises quarterly updates that will keep the game fresh and responsive to player feedback. These updates aim to enhance various aspects of the game, ensuring an improved gaming experience for fans.
GSC Gameworld has committed to providing detailed patch notes with each quarterly update, confirming which planned features are live in-game. Following the comprehensive Q1 updates that addressed significant issues and introduced multiple hotfixes, the developers are poised to continue their momentum with a series of enhancements.
Here's what players can look forward to in the upcoming Q2 2025 updates:
A key focus of the Q2 2025 roadmap is the introduction of the Beta Mod SDK Kit. GSC Gameworld plans to conduct a closed beta with mod makers to refine the ModKit before its official release. The integration of Mod.io and Steam Workshop will further enhance the modding community's capabilities.
The A-Life system, crucial for the game's NPC AI and simulation, will see significant updates. Following a massive 110 GB Christmas patch last year, the developers are set to introduce "persistent A-Life improvements" and enhance human combat with better cover and flanking tactics, as well as more strategic use of grenades.
Mutants in the game will also receive updates, with new behaviors such as eating corpses and reacting to threats. Additional features include the introduction of mutant loot, the ability to skip shader compilation, an increase in the player stash window size, support for wide screen aspect ratios, and the addition of two new unspecified weapons. The team is also focusing on further stabilization, optimization, and fixing "anomalies" within the game.
As a bonus, fans of the original STALKER trilogy can anticipate a next-gen update, with more details to be shared as the release date approaches. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is available on Xbox Series X|S and PC. Stay tuned for more updates and detailed information on these exciting developments.