GSC Game World’s latest release, STALKER 2, is an intense survival-horror game exclusive to Xbox and Windows PC. While it may seem daunting, the game does a great job of easing you into its expansive open-world with interactive tutorials and straightforward early quests. However, some intricacies and gameplay mechanics aren’t covered in these tutorials, leaving observant and creative players to discover them on their own.
After spending over 55 hours immersed in this game, I’ve come across five essential tips that new players should keep in mind as they venture further into The Zone. So let’s dive right in.
Mutants Can’t Climb—Use This to Your Advantage
Navigating the mutant-infested world of STALKER 2 can be downright nerve-wracking. These creatures can be extremely resilient, inflict serious damage quickly, and some even move unpredictably, making them hard to target—especially when using an Xbox controller. Luckily, they all share a major weakness: their inability to climb.
Whether you’re outrunning a pack of rabid dogs or evading a fierce bloodsucker, climbing onto objects like old cars or shipping containers will keep you safe from their reach. This vantage point allows you to reload, aim, and bandage your wounds without fear. However, this tactic is less effective against certain types, like poltergeists and controllers, who possess ranged attacks.
A minor downside is that mutants tend to hide once they realize they can’t reach you. But this has a silver lining—you can safely descend, take a few shots, and hop back up when they advance, keeping you one step ahead.
Master the Art of Slow Walking
STALKER 2 offers basics like sprinting and crouching in its tutorial, but it glosses over a crucial movement technique—slow walking. With a quick visit to your controls settings, you can assign a custom key for this move, either as a toggle or hold down. My preference is the toggle option.
Slow walking is invaluable, especially during shootouts. Unlike regular walking or sprinting, it generates almost no noise, allowing you to stealthily flank enemies or reposition without alerting them. Although crouch-walking is also quiet, it sacrifices speed, whereas slow walking strikes a better balance.
Additionally, slow walking helps in stabilizing your aim, crucial during fights where precise shots and headshots make all the difference.
Boost Your Earnings by Selling Loot to Weapon Traders
In STALKER 2’s bases, you’ll find two types of traders: bartenders and arms dealers. While you can sell your findings to both, arms dealers consistently offer better prices—even for food. So next time you plan to offload loot, ensure it’s with them.
Cash flow in STALKER 2 is vital for repairing gear, fast travel, upgrades, and restocking ammunition. Maximizing your earnings from loot through arms dealers will pay off significantly in the long run.
A Cross-Region Stash System at Your Disposal
Your personal stash, represented by a yellow box in every base, is introduced early in the game. However, a key feature that’s not explicitly mentioned is its shared nature across all regions in The Zone. Items stored in one region can be accessed in another, which is crucial for managing your inventory efficiently.
By using this stash wisely, you can travel lighter and maintain agility without sacrificing your arsenal of weapons and supplies. Staying within a manageable weight range is crucial to maintaining stamina and speed.
Some Foods Offer Unexpected Healing Benefits
While most players rely on medical kits and bandages for healing, did you know some food items can restore health? Bread and sausages might not seem like powerhouses at first glance, but they do provide a minor health boost.
This feature is especially handy when you’re low on medical supplies or need a quick health top-up. So, keep an eye out for these underrated food items during your adventures.
The Zone Awaits—Prepare Yourself for the Hunt
STALKER 2’s tutorials set the foundation for survival, but these advanced tips can give you an edge. While the path ahead is challenging and fraught with danger, knowing how to effectively handle mutants, increase earnings, and make the most of your resources will undoubtedly ease the journey.
STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl is now available on Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC. This standout title ranks among the year’s best for both platforms. Priced at $59.99, it’s available at a discount on CDKeys and accessible through Xbox Game Pass, PC Game Pass, and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
