S.T.A.L.K.E.R 2: Heart of Chornobyl has arrived, and the audience of post-apocalyptic adventures is ready to return to the Zone once more. If you are new to this franchise, you might wonder if you must play the first part before taking on its sequel. Since S.T.A.L.K.E.R. was released nearly two decades ago, this is a valid question for newcomers and returning players.
Although S.T.A.L.K.E.R 2 takes place in the same world established in the first game, it has been designed for everyone to play, even if they are new to the series. If you are a newcomer wondering whether you should jump into the action with S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 or understand the game lore with S.T.A.L.K.E.R., read this guide to get the answer.
Can You Play S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 Without Playing S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 1?
click to enlargeYes, it is possible to play S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 even if you have not played the original game, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. The developers have made it clear through their statement that S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 is an independent sequel to the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. trilogy. This sequel comes with a new hero - Skif, and a fresh plot, with most game events occurring in the creepy and inhospitable Zone.
However, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 includes references, such as familiar locations, that fans of the original trilogy will recognize. Although these references bring fun and nostalgia, they are unnecessary for understanding the new story. In short, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 is a standalone entry in the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. franchise and offers an equally immersive experience to both newbies and returning players.
Benefits of Playing S.T.A.L.K.E.R. First
Although you can start directly with S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2, starting with the prequel will help you connect more deeply with the world and its mysteries. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. will help you to become familiar with the harsh environment, dangerous anomalies, and fighting mechanics. It will also help you to understand the origins of Zone and other background stories that will help you understand S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 in a better way.
Apart from that, the survival mechanics of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. will help you face all the environmental extremities in the sequel. Although it is not necessary to complete, playing S.T.A.L.K.E.R. offers you extra content related to the sequel’s story, so it’s worth giving a try if you have enough time.
What’s the Best Option for You?
If you are short on time and want to get right into the action, you can jump straight into S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 without a problem. Before you do that, make sure to watch a quick recap of S.T.A.L.K.E.R.’s story as well to catch up on the basics.
However, to get into the Zone’s origin and see where the series began, you should play S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Ultimately, the decision is entirely up to you; S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 works perfectly as a standalone game, but starting with S.T.A.L.K.E.R. lets you understand this franchise more.