S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl

 PC
User Score
8.4

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1886 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,528 out of 1886
  2. Mixed: 208 out of 1886
  3. Negative: 150 out of 1886
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  1. SgAkErRu
    Apr 11, 2020
    10
    Одна из самых лучших игр на планете по моему мнению. У игры очень крутая атмосфера, она гениальна. Именно атмосферой эта игра всех и цепляет. Фанатское сообщество живет и по сей день, клепая к игре (не только к SoC, ко всем сталкерам) куча неплохих модов. В общем, крутая игра, даже добавить нечего.Одна из самых лучших игр на планете по моему мнению. У игры очень крутая атмосфера, она гениальна. Именно атмосферой эта игра всех и цепляет. Фанатское сообщество живет и по сей день, клепая к игре (не только к SoC, ко всем сталкерам) куча неплохих модов. В общем, крутая игра, даже добавить нечего.
  2. zhenyara
    Apr 13, 2020
    10
    Очень классная игра даже по меркам 2020. Очень геймплей прекрасен, сюжет прекрасен, атмосфера топ.
  3. Flum1sh
    Oct 11, 2022
    10
    A best open world that was ever made for sure, i might do everything in this game. Characters was really good. History ok. Waiting for S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2
  4. DyvannyExpert
    Jul 24, 2020
    10
    Это абсолютно легендарная и самая атмосферная игра на тот момент, которая положила начало лучшей вселенной.
  5. LonerCheki
    May 2, 2022
    10
    If in 2020 I can play this game,if I feel same as wheniI encounter bloodsucker first time, that's mean basically that; Shadow of Chernobyl is a solid masterpiece :) 15 year after still have great atmosphere and this game is aging really well , i mean 3d games getting older quickly but after 15 year no any game can get close to thoose stalker games still best atmosphere :)
  6. krooney
    Jun 20, 2020
    10
    I have no idea why this game hasn't been remastered properly for newer generations of console. Possibly the GOAT.
  7. Lukas3176
    Dec 6, 2021
    10
    Первая игра в трилогии,и самая мрачная. Прекрасная и не стареющая классика. 10 из 10.
  8. Goorman1996
    Jun 24, 2022
    10
    The best part of the S.T.A.L.K.E.R., without a doubt. How that game sticks you to itself by unique ambient — couldn't find the words for it. if you want a classic game — here it is. I doubt that games like this one will be released in the future.
  9. yaRiKKKKKK
    Jul 16, 2020
    10
    I think this is one of the best games that was created in the CIS.

    To me this game is very interesting because it touched on the strongest disaster in the world-the accident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant,Pripyat was evacuated and became a Ghost town.Hundreds of people at that time died from extreme doses of radiation.In this disaster, I watched a lot of documentaries. The most    I think this is one of the best games that was created in the CIS.

    To me this game is very interesting because it touched on the strongest disaster in the world-the accident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant,Pripyat was evacuated and became a Ghost town.Hundreds of people at that time died from extreme doses of radiation.In this disaster, I watched a lot of documentaries.
    The most interesting thing I found out that GSC Game World is a game on this universe is survival in the Chernobyl zone,mutants,anomalies and other thugs.My brother bought magazines and watched the news about the development of the game.
    For 13 years I replayed that part a bunch of times,it was worth it.
    Pros:
    1)Very good atmosphere of the former Soviet Union
    2)Simple gameplay ,trading system
    3)Videos S. T. A. L. K. E. R divine,goosebumps
    4)Good story
    5)Open world,you can do what you want
    Cons:
    1)the Weapon was better to do it gets slow.The shutter is generally the left side of the machine
    2)the Engine is old    … Expand
  10. D0G1E
    Aug 3, 2020
    10
    Отличная игра!!! Провёл за ней ни один тёплый вечерок! Всем, кому интересна тема Чернобыля - однозначно РЕКОМЕНДУЮ!!!
  11. Dytealvudli5
    Aug 21, 2020
    10
    ЛУЧШАЯ ИГРА НА СВЕТЕ ЛУЧШАЯ ИГРА НА СВЕТЕ ЛУЧШАЯ ИГРА НА СВЕТЕ ЛУЧШАЯ ИГРА НА СВЕТЕ
  12. empleat100
    Sep 2, 2020
    10
    Very EPIC game. Great atmosphere. Has that feeling of EPICness and you alone whole game. It is original! And it is scary. It has that grim of post-apocalyptic world, as you would expect from game like that. Open world, even it has a lot of uninteresting reapitive tasks, you don't have to do them. And there are also great side missions, which make game look more like real world. As there isVery EPIC game. Great atmosphere. Has that feeling of EPICness and you alone whole game. It is original! And it is scary. It has that grim of post-apocalyptic world, as you would expect from game like that. Open world, even it has a lot of uninteresting reapitive tasks, you don't have to do them. And there are also great side missions, which make game look more like real world. As there is diversity!

    For people that like exploration, this is great game. There are so many unique and interesting locations and things to discover and to finish game multiple ways. It is absolutely EPIC on epic scale 10/10! This is my favorite post-apocalyptic game. It is gives me goosebumps! You will want to play all mods and replay this game over and over, trust me!

    It has also decent ai and is hardcore shooter. I can't even sum this up, because it is good in so many areas, 20 things comes to my mind, before i can finish a sentence :D This if one of these immersive games, which makes you hooked from start to the end! You are like, what is next?    … Expand
  13. TierMix
    Sep 12, 2020
    10
    This game helps to feel the whole atmosphere of the Chornobyl anomalous zone! Unforgettable emotions can be felt in laboratories. The graphics aren't that bad today, but the game can attract more computers, which is very good for scrap metal owners. The plot may not be the best, but it is full of quite unexpected twists. The mechanics of the weapon are quite comfortable, and there isThis game helps to feel the whole atmosphere of the Chornobyl anomalous zone! Unforgettable emotions can be felt in laboratories. The graphics aren't that bad today, but the game can attract more computers, which is very good for scrap metal owners. The plot may not be the best, but it is full of quite unexpected twists. The mechanics of the weapon are quite comfortable, and there is nothing superfluous in the likeness of thirty functions that no one ever uses. Phrases such as "Chiki-Bricki" and "Caught Olive" have become classics. I've always liked this game, so I'll put 10/10.… Expand
  14. Oldman1917
    Apr 8, 2022
    10
    Ukrainian game, so I can write ukrainian.
    Чудові українські ігри! Це круто, що в нашій країні створювались і створюються легендарні ігри світового рівня! Не цурайтесь, пишайтесь! За українську озвучку окремий респект!
  15. Boblob
    Dec 18, 2020
    10
    Cult classic. All stalker games has this unique atmoshere, dark and beautiful.
  16. raiden12
    Nov 16, 2020
    10
    Better than any fallout games (except new vegas). Great music, great atmosphere, great gameplay. It's not a surprise that the developer of metro had came out from stalker. GREAT GAME
  17. ylnylmn
    Oct 14, 2022
    10
    A legendary game compared to 2007. The ancestor of the open world fps-rpg genre. And he did it in the best way possible. Another game that reflects the post-apocalyptic life so well with its dark atmosphere is only Fallout. Perfect world story and various game endings. Terrible creatures. Various factions. Various missions. Enjoyable action. I play it every year and it gives the sameA legendary game compared to 2007. The ancestor of the open world fps-rpg genre. And he did it in the best way possible. Another game that reflects the post-apocalyptic life so well with its dark atmosphere is only Fallout. Perfect world story and various game endings. Terrible creatures. Various factions. Various missions. Enjoyable action. I play it every year and it gives the same pleasure. Death to the Monoliths. Long live Stalkers.… Expand
  18. Gdgamer
    Jan 10, 2021
    10
    Одна из лучших игр в истории индустрии, по атмосфере лучшая вероятно. Очень надеюсь вторая часть продолжит традицию
  19. Gervant228
    Jan 22, 2022
    10
    Dancing on the ashes of the world
    I behold the stars
    Heavy gale is blowing to my face
    Rising up the dust
    Barren lands are desperate to blossom
    Dark stars strive to shine
    Still remember blue ocean
    In this dying world...
  20. Sergius_Grey
    Dec 8, 2020
    10
    I will not be verbose, - S.T.A.L.K.E.R .: Shadow of Chernobyl, this is the legend of the gaming industry. There is no such game, except S.T.A.L.K.E.R .: Shadow of Chernobyl, which I would play 5 times. It is so gorgeous that I even bought it on Steam, although I went through it from cover to cover before.
    Atmosphere. Gameplay. Story.
    10 maslina out of 10.
  21. melorange
    Feb 8, 2022
    10
    Very atmospheric game. A bit janky at times, but solid 10/10 nonetheless. I recommend playing with Autumn Aurora 2 mod.
  22. Corpi
    Dec 18, 2020
    10
    ржал с анекдотов два часа АВХАХВХАХАВХВАХАВХ
  23. OWER1
    Jan 13, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. in this game you can be heal with vodka and sausage .... MASTERIOUS! Realy gggooooooooooooooood… Expand
  24. StalkerIgor
    Jan 20, 2021
    10
    Best game Ive ever played, the best atmosphere in a game with a rich story and amazing mechanics
  25. GulmanGRD
    Oct 3, 2021
    10
    It's - It's great. There is no game that would tighten me up as much as this one. 3-33 hours non-stop
  26. ZUM_137
    May 31, 2021
    10
    Сталкер просто шикарная игра! Хороший сюжет, реплики бандитов, радио группировки бандитов, и многое другое! Те кто говорит что графика полное дерьмо и есть баги, то хочу ответить что эту игру делала небольшая, бедная компанияСталкер просто шикарная игра! Хороший сюжет, реплики бандитов, радио группировки бандитов, и многое другое! Те кто говорит что графика полное дерьмо и есть баги, то хочу ответить что эту игру делала небольшая, бедная компания
  27. DKiska
    Jun 15, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Отличная игра моего детства
    . Хорошая, иногда пугающая ,атмосфера.Красивые локации и захватывающие квесты. Все то вас ждет в этой игре.    … Expand
  28. Ivoren
    Jul 15, 2021
    10
    Лучия стрелялка в свое время. Годный сюжет. Ребята из СНГ постарались и надеюсь, что следующшия часть будет лучше.
  29. Avery12345
    Jan 4, 2022
    10
    Yes it does have some imperfections, especially the bugs. But it's still one of the greatest games of all time. This game is one of the hardest games I've ever played, but the difficulty isn't to the point where I thought it was ever unfair. This game will not hold your hand, it gives you a few basic controls and sets you loose in this irradiated world. I really like this approach, it letsYes it does have some imperfections, especially the bugs. But it's still one of the greatest games of all time. This game is one of the hardest games I've ever played, but the difficulty isn't to the point where I thought it was ever unfair. This game will not hold your hand, it gives you a few basic controls and sets you loose in this irradiated world. I really like this approach, it lets me figure out things for myself and really feel like I've accomplished something at the end. The gameplay mechanics actually still hold up today. The scavenging aspect is one of the best parts. There are no repair kits, you have to find new gear yourself. While most of the story is hidden behind optional dialogue, I found the story to be quite excellent. The AI is actually pretty decent even by today's standards (of course when it's not completely glitched out). This is one of the most atmospheric games I have ever played and is really the game's strongsuit. All the environments blow me away even today. Also Sidorovich is hot. Do yourself a favor and play on the max difficulty, it makes the bullet damage the highest and in my opinion is the fairest way to play. The enemy can kill you in a few shots but you kill them in a few shots too.

    TL;DR: Absolutely amazing would recommend    … Expand
  30. me_mosso
    Jan 31, 2022
    10
    Преподаватель - Мужик у тебя скоро экзамены!
    Я - Да-да?
    Если без шуток Атмосфера - 10 Сюжет - 10 Пресонажи - 10 Оружие - 5 (можно было на тот момент и не делать таких ошибок с левым затвором) Баги , Фризы , Пролаги не обращаешь внимания хоть иногда и вымораживает GSC GameWorls Спасибо за детство 10 из 10    Преподаватель - Мужик у тебя скоро экзамены!
    Я - Да-да?

    Если без шуток
    Атмосфера - 10
    Сюжет - 10
    Пресонажи - 10
    Оружие - 5 (можно было на тот момент и не делать таких ошибок с левым затвором)
    Баги , Фризы , Пролаги не обращаешь внимания хоть иногда и вымораживает
    GSC GameWorls Спасибо за детство
    10 из 10
  31. Olezhichka
    Mar 10, 2022
    10
    Лучшая игра на свете , от украинских разработчиков , которая уже не доступна для русских)
  32. SAMpRo
    Apr 2, 2022
    10
    Очень классная игра!
    Классная атмосфера!
    Прекрасная погода и эффекты!
    Это игра шедевр она открыла врата в мир ЧЗО!
  33. Raznoobrazie
    May 24, 2022
    10
    I have no words to describe this masterpiece. "Shadow Of Chernobyl" is my favorite part of the game. I admire everything: plot, characters, atmosphere, riddles, stashes and even bugs sometimes. You have to play this game.
  34. Jackie_Jackson
    May 25, 2022
    10
    Ах как хочется вернуться
    Ах как хочется ворваться
    В сталкерок...
    Где всё просто и знакомо
    На динёк...
  35. hyrts
    Jun 4, 2022
    10
    The stalker game series is 10/10. The grimness of the world is way out there. I totally loved the pacing and the atmosphere.
  36. WeakPC
    Sep 1, 2022
    10
    Legendary game I really like the atmosphere... Chernobyl, Exclusion Zone, Mutants. I really like the whole atmosphere, and the missions
  37. Big_Pisya
    Jan 3, 2023
    10
    Glory to Ukraine! Death to the Russian Nazist. I wish the company success in the further development of its games!!
  38. pavvel
    Feb 23, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is the best game ever from Ukrainian guys.
    I realy love this. Played a lot of times    … Expand
  39. Wangarat
    Feb 26, 2023
    10
    This is the best game about Ukraine, I recommend everyone to play this game.
  40. Cubicorn
    Feb 27, 2023
    10
    Don't mind the bad reviews. Russians just salty about game boycott.
    You can't find a better post-apoc. game series than Stalker.
  41. nykalis
    Mar 19, 2023
    10
    I played STALKER in 2008 and again a few months ago. The graphics are a little eye-searing, but the music, audio effects, and story atmosphere are still on top.
    In my opinion, the game deserves a place in the history of the gaming industry.
  42. Cristocle
    Jun 25, 2023
    10
    Shadow of Chernobyl is in my opinion one of the best games ever created. It combines awesome story telling with an atmospheric environment that sends chills down your spine. The AI fells almost like an actual player because it doesn't just sit around waiting to get shot, the AI tries flanking, it tries to shoot when you are reloading and searches for cover. The game tries to make you scareShadow of Chernobyl is in my opinion one of the best games ever created. It combines awesome story telling with an atmospheric environment that sends chills down your spine. The AI fells almost like an actual player because it doesn't just sit around waiting to get shot, the AI tries flanking, it tries to shoot when you are reloading and searches for cover. The game tries to make you scare yourself by spawning random mutant hordes and anomalies. Overall it's an almost perfect game.… Expand
  43. Dimocracy
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    A well-made atmospheric video game about the consequences of the Chornobyl tragedy.
  44. HenryJ.
    Apr 10, 2007
    9
    Has some short comings, but an interesting idea that holds up. A game with real immersion. I bought the game after reading T Man's comments figuring that if a child didn't like it I might find it really interesting so thanks T Man.
  45. RandyP.
    May 13, 2007
    9
    At first, I didn't like this game. I saw the flaws and bugs: Not pausing the game while you loot bodies... Being over burdened while under fire... save / loading bugs. But being one who hates wasting his money, I gave it a solid shot... and this game grew on me. It's not a conventional shooter by any means. It's an adventure shooter with light rpg elements... food, weapons, At first, I didn't like this game. I saw the flaws and bugs: Not pausing the game while you loot bodies... Being over burdened while under fire... save / loading bugs. But being one who hates wasting his money, I gave it a solid shot... and this game grew on me. It's not a conventional shooter by any means. It's an adventure shooter with light rpg elements... food, weapons, ammo, armor... etc. The A.I. is very strong... Enemies will fall back when out gunned, regroup, flank, and attack. Dead bodies are persistent until a predator/scavenger devours the bodies. Enemies dont spawn in front of you, they actually walk across the environment and repopulate previously cleared areas. There are weather changes, day / night cycles, and the behavior of all adapt and take advantage of it. There are many types of environmental hazards and strange/creepy creatures. The environments themselves are massive... and extremely detailed. The more you explore and play this game, you begin to realize that the environments themselves are alive! You also realize just how much work went into it... and it shows. I still don't think it was finished when it went out the door, but it's still solid. And for a first title on a new game engine... it's amazing. This game blatantly dares to be different and has successfully enhanced the FPS genre and raised the bar dramatically. One of the most impressive FPS titles to come out in a long time.… Expand
  46. ThomasP.
    Sep 9, 2007
    9
    How can someone rate a game zero? Especially this game? This game is great! Like a combination of Halo, Morrowind, Half-life, doom, Freelancer and maybe a few more. The new patch is out that fixes many of the bugs that have been complained about so don't worry about that, it's just kind of hard to find a place to get it from but it worked out. The AI is amazing, constantly How can someone rate a game zero? Especially this game? This game is great! Like a combination of Halo, Morrowind, Half-life, doom, Freelancer and maybe a few more. The new patch is out that fixes many of the bugs that have been complained about so don't worry about that, it's just kind of hard to find a place to get it from but it worked out. The AI is amazing, constantly changing tactics and adapting to enviroment, but they do act like they have an IQ les than that of a jar of mayonaise, but not often.My only grip about this is that if you wan't to run this on high settings, you've got to have a beastly computer. All in all, great title that mixes different game elements to create a unique and gripping expeiriance.… Expand
  47. Jaker
    Apr 20, 2008
    9
    This game is amazing. I have played FPS since Wolfenstein 3d(probably about 100 fps games total) and this is the most immersive environment I have ever seen. The game is so spooky, and is so addicting. I have clocked over 100 hours on the Single Player alone. My only problems with the game are it's technical jitters, but the game should not be missed. Stop reading this, and go buy it.
  48. LucasDelzell
    Jun 8, 2008
    9
    First the bad stuff: A TERRIBLE ENGINE. I run a Dell XPS M1530 nwith everything maxed out, and as such am used to a pretty good gaming experience. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. runs at about medium quality, so be warned.

    UNBALANCED GRAPHICS: a beautiful environment, interseting monster design. But NPC characters look cartoony and absurd, and don't get me started on lip-sync. GOOD STUFF:    First the bad stuff: A TERRIBLE ENGINE. I run a Dell XPS M1530 nwith everything maxed out, and as such am used to a pretty good gaming experience. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. runs at about medium quality, so be warned.

    UNBALANCED GRAPHICS: a beautiful environment, interseting monster design. But NPC characters look cartoony and absurd, and don't get me started on lip-sync.

    GOOD STUFF:
    STORYLINE: awesome hard-SF storyline that kept me riveted.

    COOL WEAPONS: I liked all the guns in this game, in part because thy helped keep me anchored to reality in a totally trippy game.

    FPS/RPG HYBRID: this game wouldn't work without the hybrid gameplay, with takes most of the linear drag of, say HL2 or Halo, out of this game.

    WEAPONS SYSTEM: I liked how the weapon system worked in the game, allowing for the keepiong of many different weapons without sacriicing realism (Half-Life 2, anyone?)

    ENVIRONMENT: Like I said, the environment looks beautiful, with light blooms and the whole shebang. Being set in post-apocalyptic Ukraine allowed for both rolling hills, forests and (my favorite) abandoned industrial structures, which make for endless fun with a sniper rifle.

    OVERALL: I like this game alot. Yeah, I'd like to be able to turn the graphics up more, but the kill-or-be-killed gameplay keep me on my toes enough to allow me to look beyond this fault. Like Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion, a bad engine can be trumped by fun gameplay and better story. I recomend buying it.    … Expand
  49. perkelek
    Sep 3, 2009
    9
    Absolutely one of the best games I've ever played. Large free-area, realistic weapons, shooting is really hard and above average story. Graphics are awesome and gameplay is quite buggy, but its half fps and half rpg, that's why the action and shooting isnt as smooth as in games like F.E.A.R.2 or half-life 2 (I love those games) but who gives a shit? so much things and tasks to Absolutely one of the best games I've ever played. Large free-area, realistic weapons, shooting is really hard and above average story. Graphics are awesome and gameplay is quite buggy, but its half fps and half rpg, that's why the action and shooting isnt as smooth as in games like F.E.A.R.2 or half-life 2 (I love those games) but who gives a shit? so much things and tasks to do in this game! this game is definitely worth of playing.… Expand
  50. Emmett
    Oct 31, 2007
    9
    -Awesome action/adventure/rpg FPS, with Fallout appeal. -Awesome weather, 'anomaly' effects and interesting storyline. -Quite challenging. -The only thing I could see to improve the game is a little more 'polish' on some models.
  51. NicholasS.
    Oct 9, 2007
    9
    This is one of those games where the draw is much stronger than the flaws. Yes, there is a lot wrong with the game, but there is so much right I am mezmorized. I've played many games that were polished more, but very few that I've enjoyed more.
  52. MichaelR.
    Mar 21, 2007
    9
    I am absolutely astounded by how good this game is. If it is not the stunning graphics and effects, the realistic physics, the brilliant AI, the gameplay and the vast size of the world, it's the superb atmosphere. The game runs exceptionally well on my pc, though it occasionally crashes to the desktop (hopefully, this will be addressed in a patch). I have waited almost four years for I am absolutely astounded by how good this game is. If it is not the stunning graphics and effects, the realistic physics, the brilliant AI, the gameplay and the vast size of the world, it's the superb atmosphere. The game runs exceptionally well on my pc, though it occasionally crashes to the desktop (hopefully, this will be addressed in a patch). I have waited almost four years for this game, and I am extremely happy that it has fulfilled all my wishes.… Expand
  53. Wazoo
    Mar 20, 2007
    9
    + Fantastic atmosphere. + VERY good AI that flanks (even in the vertical!) and uses cover. + Very stable for me. Not one CTD yet. + Impressive graphics engine that makes the environment believable. + HUGE draw distances + Weapon accuracy/ballistics just "feels" real (bullets impact at distance with nice dispersal effect witnessed by bullet impact graphics/lighting) + Firefights, between + Fantastic atmosphere. + VERY good AI that flanks (even in the vertical!) and uses cover. + Very stable for me. Not one CTD yet. + Impressive graphics engine that makes the environment believable. + HUGE draw distances + Weapon accuracy/ballistics just "feels" real (bullets impact at distance with nice dispersal effect witnessed by bullet impact graphics/lighting) + Firefights, between the enemy AI and the ballastics, are just wicked fun! + Very open ended gameplay. Fun for explorers. + Non-scripted activity abounds! The world feels alive. Seriously. - Real resource hog with type lighting effects. Running on 7800GTX SLI OC'd, X2 4800+, 2gig and can maintain over 30fps in 1600x1024 with HDR *most* of the time. High object density areas can dip it into the high-teens. - Story is weak. If English is the writer's first language, he/she has the literary skills of an 8th grader. - Overall lacks "polish"; mouse wheel works poorly with map, fonts often look like place holders, need to push-and-hold to maintain "iron-sight" view. etc. etc. - Economic system seems imbalanced. Seems a bit too easy to get cash and not too much to buy.… Expand
  54. MichaelB.
    May 3, 2007
    9
    I found this game extremely immersing. I was reminded of my Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion experience. So much to do, so many things to kill and loot. The setting is perfect for the gameplay and creates very intense situations. There are a few bugs, and some of the interface could use some polish, so I cannot grant a perfect score. If you are interested in a Fallout styled Oblivion I found this game extremely immersing. I was reminded of my Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion experience. So much to do, so many things to kill and loot. The setting is perfect for the gameplay and creates very intense situations. There are a few bugs, and some of the interface could use some polish, so I cannot grant a perfect score. If you are interested in a Fallout styled Oblivion experience, this is the game for you.… Expand
  55. Muffles
    Jul 12, 2008
    9
    Without mods, it's not really worth your time, it's set up to give an illusion of artificial life, but everything spawns in the same place, every time, and characters never leave their assigned area.

    Redux+AliVe, however, spectacularly solves this, and makes the game incredible. Combining the realism of Redux with the variety of AliVe leads to some awesome moments. The Dark    Without mods, it's not really worth your time, it's set up to give an illusion of artificial life, but everything spawns in the same place, every time, and characters never leave their assigned area.

    Redux+AliVe, however, spectacularly solves this, and makes the game incredible. Combining the realism of Redux with the variety of AliVe leads to some awesome moments. The Dark Valley's underground lab has some truly nerve-wracking moments.    … Expand
  56. DavidSimpson
    Aug 2, 2008
    9
    I loved the fact that I was actually walking around in a world that was really like the aftermath of Chernobyl. I thought there were a couple of little bugs in the game but overall I really enjoyed playing it. It did take me a while to get used to the style of play as I mostly played FPS prior to this but great game!! Cant wait for the next.
  57. KyleP
    Mar 7, 2009
    9
    Absolutely a stunning game. The non-linear plot and fully-explorable environment make this game seem like Oblivion...but much, much darker. The mutants you encounter throughout the game have a habit of making you jump or straight up scaring the crap out of you, and the AI really works well for allies and enemies alike. I give it a 9/10 only because it can be kind of buggy (crashing and Absolutely a stunning game. The non-linear plot and fully-explorable environment make this game seem like Oblivion...but much, much darker. The mutants you encounter throughout the game have a habit of making you jump or straight up scaring the crap out of you, and the AI really works well for allies and enemies alike. I give it a 9/10 only because it can be kind of buggy (crashing and what not), and the learning curve is kinda steep as it is tough to get comfortable with how the game works until you're about halfway through the game. I recommend this game, though. Keeps you on your toes through one of the most widely known areas in the world - and one of the worst nuclear disasters ever to happen.… Expand
  58. ThibautB.
    Dec 20, 2007
    9
    Best game I've played this year. Very good atmosphere, maybe especially for mature gamers who are looking for a game wortwhile of other action-rpg such as Fallout, Deux ex or Vampire:Bloodlines.
  59. CharlesE.
    Oct 31, 2007
    9
    I waited a long time for this title. It was worth the wait. I was pleasantly suprised. This is a great adventure. Bascially an RPG lite game with an FPS as the underlying engine. They are well blended. The story line is done well. This game has replay value. Graphically it is fantastic. But you better have the machine to run it. STATIC LIGHTING mode is what most people will need to run it I waited a long time for this title. It was worth the wait. I was pleasantly suprised. This is a great adventure. Bascially an RPG lite game with an FPS as the underlying engine. They are well blended. The story line is done well. This game has replay value. Graphically it is fantastic. But you better have the machine to run it. STATIC LIGHTING mode is what most people will need to run it in to keep thier framerates up. Even in that mode it is beutifull. Dynamic Lighting Mode adds alot of atmosphere but it requires an ATI 2900XT or geforce 8800GTS320MB or better to play smoothly in that mode. Make sure you uppdate to 1.004 or whatever comes next. C.… Expand
  60. MarketG>
    Mar 18, 2007
    9
    Shows plenty of positive aspects of the developers. Worth the wait for just like aging a vintage red a Penfold maybe? Atmospherically I give this title a 10 over F.E.A.R & without the claustrophobic & bland environments of both F.E.A.R & Doom 3 too. This game win hands down...
  61. KayinM.
    Mar 24, 2007
    9
    It deserves to get noticed almost on them delivering a playable game that lives at least potentially up to its promises. Thankfully, pulling together simply to finish and release the game isn't the only things the developers accomplished. What we receive is a hauntingly atmospheric, if slightly under-polished game; one that proves a FPS doesn't have to have you go up against It deserves to get noticed almost on them delivering a playable game that lives at least potentially up to its promises. Thankfully, pulling together simply to finish and release the game isn't the only things the developers accomplished. What we receive is a hauntingly atmospheric, if slightly under-polished game; one that proves a FPS doesn't have to have you go up against immeasurable odds with guns blazing. The graphics, while not as shiny as say Oblivion, very much sell the location. When it's night, it truly is dark; When it rains and storms, you really feel like you should be seeking shelter. While the wait may have been long, we're fortunate it did not fall into Daikatana Syndrome, or something more terminal such as Duke Nukem' Forever Syndrome. For that alone, the developers deserve our kudos.… Expand
  62. RoyF.
    Mar 29, 2007
    9
    A very, very fun and unfortunately, a somewhat flawed game. This game is a must have for anyone who has ever liked Fallout (2), System Shock (2), or ever liked zombie games. In a nutshell it is a mix of Operation Flashpoint, Half Life 2, and Oblivion (which i've never played). This game requires a bit more patience (especially with the random crashes...) but it rewards your patience A very, very fun and unfortunately, a somewhat flawed game. This game is a must have for anyone who has ever liked Fallout (2), System Shock (2), or ever liked zombie games. In a nutshell it is a mix of Operation Flashpoint, Half Life 2, and Oblivion (which i've never played). This game requires a bit more patience (especially with the random crashes...) but it rewards your patience with a very enjoyable gaming experience. thumbs up!… Expand
  63. BillM.
    Apr 1, 2007
    9
    The best thing to happen to the FPS genre since System Shock2, Deus Ex or Operation Flashpoint. This game is a milestone in FPS history. It has been said in most reviews that the story is badly told; as a system shock fan, I can tell you it's just told "differently" - through fragments of knowledge and awkward conversations. It fits the setting well. I've also read that the The best thing to happen to the FPS genre since System Shock2, Deus Ex or Operation Flashpoint. This game is a milestone in FPS history. It has been said in most reviews that the story is badly told; as a system shock fan, I can tell you it's just told "differently" - through fragments of knowledge and awkward conversations. It fits the setting well. I've also read that the graphics are dated, but from what I've seen so far, the lighting and texturing detail are top notch. There's nothing spookier than seeing the room illuminated a lighting storm through the cracks in the wooden ceiling and brick walls. Combine that with normal and parallax mapped surfaces, amazing weather and foliage systems and great particle effects, and I can't see why people think the graphics are 'dated'. The only disappointment is that the world is not seamless like Oblivion or Morrowind, there are artificial 'loading zones' joining a series of levels surrounded by invisible walls.… Expand
  64. AdamW.
    May 5, 2007
    9
    Really delivers most of the amazing things it promised, but does leave room for a potentially even more amazing expansion pack or sequel.
  65. AndrewL.
    May 8, 2007
    9
    I find this to be a good solid game so far. I will admit, I was a tad disappointed by the lack of drivable vehicles but a mod or too can remedy that. I like this game a lot and I personally thought that this is a rare game in a rare genre. Its pretty well rounded and its pretty much the only FPS/RPG I know. I recommend this to anyone, go get it.
  66. Hopna
    Jul 19, 2007
    9
    I really like this game. It has good graphics, pretty much guns , the sound is good but it also has many bugs. That is one of the things i dislike about the game. I also think the game is too short. I finished the game in a few days and i even played a lot of side quests. The game also requires a too fast system. Thats not a problem for me but my brother hasn't got a very fast I really like this game. It has good graphics, pretty much guns , the sound is good but it also has many bugs. That is one of the things i dislike about the game. I also think the game is too short. I finished the game in a few days and i even played a lot of side quests. The game also requires a too fast system. Thats not a problem for me but my brother hasn't got a very fast videocard and because of that the game doesn't always work good. The thing i liked most about the game was that it was very exciting. I remember a time when i was walking through the nature in the night. I couldn't see a thing. Suddenly i heard growling and footsteps. It came closer and closer and then i saw a bunch of blind dogs attacking me. Each time they attacked me, they ran away and came back a few seconds later. The AI isn't bad but sometimes they do stupid things. The newest patches fix a lot of bugs and make the game more playable. I would recommend the game to others because it's exciting, has a good story and a great gameplay.… Expand
  67. [Anonymous]
    Aug 13, 2007
    9
    The grafics arnt as great as fear or anything but the main quest is great so is the bullet balistics. And there are so many mods that improve the game.
  68. UK_John
    Aug 26, 2007
    9
    Due to the fact it will run on many PC's and still looks great I hope it will sell well, so we get more great games like this. Others that have given 9+ scores have described why, so I will not repeat, but I will say to have the haze over a fire and nervous NPC's who bring out their gun till they recognise you the team that made this really thought outside the box and did many Due to the fact it will run on many PC's and still looks great I hope it will sell well, so we get more great games like this. Others that have given 9+ scores have described why, so I will not repeat, but I will say to have the haze over a fire and nervous NPC's who bring out their gun till they recognise you the team that made this really thought outside the box and did many things not done before, hence the fantastic game it is!… Expand
  69. Vasiliy
    Sep 28, 2007
    9
    Nice game - it's all what i can say about this. It's almost ideal FPS. But ,of course , there is some a litle none-maked parts in this project. But ,i say again, this is a best FPS maked at post USSR territory (i said so because i'm living in Kazakhstan i.e. post USSR country , and can see a lot of our released shooters)
  70. WoutT.
    Jan 16, 2008
    9
    This game is one of those games that absorbs you so well in its atmosphere that it will make you crave for more after finishing it. You
  71. AnthonyC
    Oct 28, 2008
    9
    Once you eliminate [the majority of] the bugs with patches, this game is brilliant - the dark atmosphere and compelling (if slightly repetitive and oddly ended) story keep it interesting, and the core gameplay is an excellent mix of realistic FPS and RPG elements. While not aiming for the genre per se, STALKER is also a good horror game - the underground levels were genuinely scary Once you eliminate [the majority of] the bugs with patches, this game is brilliant - the dark atmosphere and compelling (if slightly repetitive and oddly ended) story keep it interesting, and the core gameplay is an excellent mix of realistic FPS and RPG elements. While not aiming for the genre per se, STALKER is also a good horror game - the underground levels were genuinely scary (rather than the cheap shock scares most "horror" FPS titles employ), and I was actually afraid of visiting them the second time through - not because they were boring or tedious, but because they were so very scary. The haunting sound very much contributed to this, combined with some grainy, sepia-toned visuals in various areas. But the real pleasure in STALKER for me was the customizable FPS - with the right mods, you can have 60 real-world weapons avaiable to you, with various attachments and realistic ballistics. I must have spent tens of hours playing the modded game as a sandbox after completing the main game, as collecting items and gradually working your way through the various areas is very rewarding in itself. And of course, the graphics are quite good if your hardware is recent - while there are some glitches and some of the artwork leaves some detail to be desired, overall it is a beautiful game.… Expand
  72. Jag
    Feb 15, 2008
    9
    This is a very unique piece of software. Stalker shadow of chernobyl is an FPS/RPG. there's a bit of a learning curve but you'l pick things up within about 30-60 minutes. There is so much to do. Its an open world so you can go were ever you want when ever you want. There's also a lot of stuff you can get. This game has the biggest weapon arsanal I've ever seen. The This is a very unique piece of software. Stalker shadow of chernobyl is an FPS/RPG. there's a bit of a learning curve but you'l pick things up within about 30-60 minutes. There is so much to do. Its an open world so you can go were ever you want when ever you want. There's also a lot of stuff you can get. This game has the biggest weapon arsanal I've ever seen. The story line is a bit to hard to fallow but it all comes together in the end. However this game is not for everyone. It is very hard, particularly the shooting machanics. A lot of the weapons arn't as accurate or effective as they should be. The graphics are pretty old school but everything els more than makes up for it. The A is very hard to beat. You may need to download some patches because the game has some bugs in it. Over all this game is challenging and should be played by anyone looking for a challenge.… Expand
  73. Ace
    May 30, 2008
    9
    Apart from the occasional stutter where everything freezes for a few seconds, the game is immense.

    The action is there and the combat is realistic. You will jump at certain times which makes it all the more fun.
    Once you start playing it's the kind of game that you cannot put down. Amazing.
  74. OzymandiasD
    Jul 2, 2008
    9
    Without a doubt one of the finest dystopian shooter/RPG's ever, this game enters you into the sad world of the Chernobyl incident.

    The depth of the environments is amaing, with various traps and suprises. Whether or not these are caused by the incident will be known in due time. The only issue is the base storyline is a bit weak, but with mods like AMK or Oblivion Lost, it    Without a doubt one of the finest dystopian shooter/RPG's ever, this game enters you into the sad world of the Chernobyl incident.

    The depth of the environments is amaing, with various traps and suprises. Whether or not these are caused by the incident will be known in due time.

    The only issue is the base storyline is a bit weak, but with mods like AMK or Oblivion Lost, it becomes a totally different beast.    … Expand
  75. MikeB
    Jan 2, 2009
    9
    A great game, but like others have said it has its share of issues. To start with my gripes, my biggest complaint with this game is its uneven AI - note how I said "uneven" as opposed to "bad". Because the AI isn't necessarily bad; in most instances it's actually quite good. Enemies work as teams, circling and flanking you in an attempt to take you out. They will stage A great game, but like others have said it has its share of issues. To start with my gripes, my biggest complaint with this game is its uneven AI - note how I said "uneven" as opposed to "bad". Because the AI isn't necessarily bad; in most instances it's actually quite good. Enemies work as teams, circling and flanking you in an attempt to take you out. They will stage coordinated assaults and work around offensive strengths on your part. At other times, the AI will fail. Miserably. It might be a character who doesn't run or take cover while bullets rain down around him. And like others have said, the AI is seemingly without any sense of self-preservation. Even when hopelessly outgunned, bandits and other humans will not flee with their lives; they often choose to stay and fight no matter how many of their allies go down. That being said, the stray dogs have a greater sense of self-preservation - often able to be scared off with a few shots in the air - but this is just not so with the humans. My other major gripe with this game is that your weapons and armor are in a state of constant wear and degradation with no way to repair them. The armor I can understand to a degree - you're replacing your armor usually at a regular pace, and in real life damage to armor plates is usually irreparable except by replacement, but by the time you get the best bits you will want to keep them and sadly that is not an option. However, the lack of the ability to clean or repair your firearms simply astounds me, as gun cleaning you would think would be a basic survival skill in the zone. Not true; guns will start to jam frequently, even after relatively minor degradation, with no way to fix this problem except to sell them and buy a new one, usually at an astronomical cost. The other option is to wait to see if you can find a new one, but this is a dicey proposition, especially in the Zone. I have a few complaints about this game's difficulty, but they are minor. On normal difficulty, a major military force assaults your camp almost right away, on either the first or second day. After a succession of tries I finally survived, but virtually everyone else died. This game employs a hell of a learning curve, and it is not for the faint of heart in the difficulty arena. You must be willing to grind a lot of things out through multiple tries - and unlike other RPG titles, there's no "I'm not at a high enough level" excuse. You either need better equipment or you need to try a new strategy - or you need more experience. That being said, this game has many, many more high points that far outweigh this game's high learning curve. Its atmosphere is almost too perfect; as other reviewers have mentioned its environments are strange, frightening, and sometimes disturbing. STALKER takes full advantage of its decayed Exclusion Zone environment; it has a weirdly immersive environment, with superior graphics and sound that leave you less frightened and more unsettled. The underground sequences are some of the most frightening in the game, and they are just as terrifying for the creatures you will find there as for their poorly lighted, post-military environment. The combat system is enormously entertaining, totally immersive, and is pulse poundingly fast paced and dangerous. For me, some of the game's most difficult moments came when I was forced to finish off downed, whimpering opponents, particularly soldiers (I am a Ukrainian expat and have relatives in the army there). If you are one for nightmares, or have a particular sensitivity towards this sort of thing, this is not a game for you. A minor point but nonetheless important, the weight and carry system is impeccably good, as the enormous weight of large amounts of ammunition is accurately simulated. In many ways, this game reminds me of the tangentially related Arx Fatalis, in which a hero with no memory awakes and has to find his way around a dark world. Though the games have many technical and contextual differences, they are similar enough to make me think the developers of STALKER must have played it. In spite of its flaws this game is just too much fun and is just too good to skip, especially for people who like games like Oblivion and Fallout 3.… Expand
  76. joshq
    Jun 8, 2009
    9
    Maybe because we don't rate our games off hype or top notch graphics... here's comparison for you, Bioshock is that beautiful dish u get at a gourmet restaurant that tastes terrible, but all the snobby people try to hype it up to be something, Stalker is that meal that you get at some no-name restaurant that blows you away. Why don't u logically explain thins rather than go Maybe because we don't rate our games off hype or top notch graphics... here's comparison for you, Bioshock is that beautiful dish u get at a gourmet restaurant that tastes terrible, but all the snobby people try to hype it up to be something, Stalker is that meal that you get at some no-name restaurant that blows you away. Why don't u logically explain thins rather than go on ur fanboi rants, o bioshocks great, yea, last i checked playing thru the same exact-looking environments against the same exact enemies with terrible ballistics and uninteresting weapons with their failed palsmid system which allows u to shoot things out of ur hands (most of the stuff is shot out of guns in other games).… Expand
  77. LukeG
    Aug 18, 2009
    9
    Great game,its got a fairly good story that you can always follow up by reading about it on your PDA, nice weapon ballance, offers a great oppertunity for the modding world, the graphics are nice and it has a long game life. Only put down is the game over screen once you finished the game but you can ave total freeplay with the Oblivion Lost mod
  78. Herbert
    Oct 14, 2007
    9
    Awesome!! Nice and scary but almost too dense of a story line.
  79. Tony
    Mar 23, 2007
    9
    This game has exceeded my expectations so far and has turned out to be very atmospheric indeed. The actions of the NPC characters add a lot to the immersion factor of the game and it is one of the more enjoyable FPS games I have played in quite some time. To Kyleb who has now voted at least TWICE giving the game 3 both times (unlike everyone else who seems to enjoy it), please move on andThis game has exceeded my expectations so far and has turned out to be very atmospheric indeed. The actions of the NPC characters add a lot to the immersion factor of the game and it is one of the more enjoyable FPS games I have played in quite some time. To Kyleb who has now voted at least TWICE giving the game 3 both times (unlike everyone else who seems to enjoy it), please move on and stop falsely deflating the score for the game just because YOU didnt like it, your behaviour is just pathetic.… Expand
  80. LukeG.
    Mar 31, 2007
    9
    Excellent graphics. Different (in a good way) gameplay. Fun overall. Only negative is somewhat short story.
  81. ErlendD.
    Sep 14, 2007
    9
    Its a bit confusing with the side-quests but everything else is just amasing!
  82. A.S.
    Jan 11, 2008
    9
    This is a good game, not perfect, but I haven
  83. JamesC.
    Feb 23, 2008
    9
    The patched version has run well. The game is moody, drips atmosphere, and is pretty darn scary. It also looks great with everything turned up to the maximum. It is heresy to say it, but I liked it better than Crysis. it is much more immersive to me.
  84. NickMaxwell
    May 27, 2008
    9
    This game is easily the best shooter of its time. Let me start by saying that the game is a perfect blend between an RPG with a HUGE Immerse breathing zone, with the valued tactics of a fantastic shooter like Arma. This game has hours upon hours of playing time stacked onto it by me personaly due to the games fantastic storyline and gameplay. and better yet, if you dont like the originalThis game is easily the best shooter of its time. Let me start by saying that the game is a perfect blend between an RPG with a HUGE Immerse breathing zone, with the valued tactics of a fantastic shooter like Arma. This game has hours upon hours of playing time stacked onto it by me personaly due to the games fantastic storyline and gameplay. and better yet, if you dont like the original stalker there are HUNDREDS of modifactions to suit anyones needs, and make this game worth around 800 hours of anyones life ;). THIS IS THE PERFECT SHOOTER. But then you ask "Well if it is the perfect shooter why do you only give it a 9/10?", well the game is running an absolete gaming engine, makeing the graphics not the greatist with several laggy situations, but with minor tweeks you can run this game perfect. Another reason i only give it a 9 is because the MP is terribly lacking, it is horrid and laggy, but the single player compensates and makes the game increadably enjoyable. The only game better isnt out yet and thats STALER:Clear Sky. DONT MISS THE BEGINING OF THE BEST SHOOTING FRANCHISE OF THE DECADE!… Expand
  85. DirgeT
    Nov 26, 2009
    9
    To start off my opinion which any comment is, purely opinion even if there is a fact to base it upon. These Facts as said are translated and filtered in a process by the individual whether or not by a "professional" Critic or a user. Every game has it's bugs and Stalker SHoC did has bugs to start with it's initial release which is true. If GSC was allowed the time they wanted to To start off my opinion which any comment is, purely opinion even if there is a fact to base it upon. These Facts as said are translated and filtered in a process by the individual whether or not by a "professional" Critic or a user. Every game has it's bugs and Stalker SHoC did has bugs to start with it's initial release which is true. If GSC was allowed the time they wanted to finish the game and not forced to release a game that was "about" 95% complete by THQ at the time then the bugs, glitches, all would have been lessened and even more so would have been less of a hassle.Since that did not happen no one can clearly say if that is truth or not on the released version. But, it is true it was not a completed game on release. The U.S. version I played was tested from using patches 1.0001-.0005 And respect must be given to the developers for listening and fixing so many things with each patch, after patch .0003 I believe that all saved games were able to be used between that scope.and the most current patch. One must take in account pros, and cons. Within the end, the Pros to this game are much more than that of cons. If one wishes to look at a game, hardware of any and all kinds must be placed into whether or not it is user error. Using both Nvidia to ATI graphics and even the processors. At the release at .0003 the game was frustrating, annoying with having to restart to the beginning, or if you were a smart individual making multiple saves to fall back on in different areas. This "bug" was actually found to me in my opinion due to the A.I. being used at the time and the x-ray engine. It was aggressive and very complex on consumers//users of the game. These things were actually very easy to work around for a user that was, yes, a cliched word called a "gamer" , and by that meaning a true gamer or looked at a game and that game alone, without a comparison to other games with an attempt to boast and praise another unrelated topic. A FPS RPG chaotic atmospheric game made to show warnings of mankind and their tampering with technology, using that of what an RPG is supposed to be. That of which is an open environment where close to if not always 1,000 A.I. on a single section, map level, of the 50Km (( if that is correct )) full map at a time. Scaled down of course to not each level being 50Km but the overall area, the A.I. caused conflicts mainly when leaving or entering a map, and even when conversing and completing maps. This is con yes, but at the same time it's a con based on the aspect of giving the user to choose what they want to do to progress and finish the game. Go and try guns blazing into an area of friendly or non friendly non-playable characters on the highest difficulty if you claim to be a "Pro Gamer" and see if you can do it without using up massive amounts of bandages and healing items. Most likely you are dead. At least within the game they made it so you couldn't kill off an important character that allowed you finish the game with it's 8 different optional endings. Point:Giving the user abilities to change and effect their own outcome caused an early bug inside of the game to maybe not let you move from a map without a crash. But at this point. The finished result isn't the same. It is a hard, and rather close to realism that could be done with testing, trial and error at the start of developing in early 2000, I believe 2003-2004. This game is not for everyone. It is a gorgeous game with amazingly accurate as possible dimensions, to scale weight of items and limitations of the real world, including the weapons with recoil, bullet spread, armor effects, and so on. The game is a very largely innovated and respected game world wide. Allowing users to freely modify and release drastic changes in the game, some mods for fun and those that showed improved balancing and more realistic truth that a few bullets in the gut does kill you. Place in mind and hold a bit closely to your heart of the beauty of the music, atmospheric conditions, difficulty, realism of it's time. and of course in my opinion if you wish to take in account this last part. The idea that this individual has is that on a stability of hardware, this game was before it's time with the needed requirements to play it at it's fullest and strongest unless you had 2--4GB of DDR RAM, an AMD Athlon FX-57 or the FX-60 Dual core Cpu, and a rather high-end Ati or Nvidia GPU. You were going to run into issues if you weren't even able to process the data correctly though your machine. I did find that out the hard way if you tried to push the in game settings to max. I would give this game a 10 for some many reasons, but I don't think any game deserves a Perfect score, a high 98-99% may be possible, but not an over rated 100.… Expand
  86. MirceaC
    Oct 9, 2010
    9
    "S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl" is one of the best games ever made when it comes to atmosphere, storyline and geography. The personality of the characters in this game is amazing as well. You will never feel alone in this game. Even though the FPS part doesn't really bring something new to this kind of genre, it's amazing how it works in combination with some RPG elements. Yes, there"S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl" is one of the best games ever made when it comes to atmosphere, storyline and geography. The personality of the characters in this game is amazing as well. You will never feel alone in this game. Even though the FPS part doesn't really bring something new to this kind of genre, it's amazing how it works in combination with some RPG elements. Yes, there are quite a few bugs and glitches here and there, but with one or two patches, the game is truly stunning. I have to say that when I first played the game, I fell in love with it in a few seconds.… Expand
  87. dklingen
    Sep 29, 2010
    9
    Loved this game, played with the "Complete" mod and really enjoyed the experience. I skipped Clear Sky, but have Call of Pripyat and am awaiting the "Complete" mod for it...
  88. Dethstar
    Jan 7, 2014
    9
    Just replayed this after exhausting it for years. Still a great game. The stalker series have an atmosphere I have never found in any other game although there are some similarities with fallout. Preferred call of pripayt as it feels more polished but I love the open feel of Shadows of Cherobyl. CoP lost a little of the open world feel but not enough to kill it. A classic game in aJust replayed this after exhausting it for years. Still a great game. The stalker series have an atmosphere I have never found in any other game although there are some similarities with fallout. Preferred call of pripayt as it feels more polished but I love the open feel of Shadows of Cherobyl. CoP lost a little of the open world feel but not enough to kill it. A classic game in a classic series. We need more like this.… Expand
  89. Blahonga
    Jan 27, 2011
    9
    One of the best and most atmospheric horror/action FPS's in recent time. It's similar to but better than Fallout 3, at least after you've installed STALKER: Shadow of Chernobyl Complete 2012 mod + realistic weapons. Those mods fixes a large number of bugs and updates the graphics to be better than the (horrible) sequel Stalker: Clear Sky. Very highly recommended game.
  90. amorpheus
    Apr 22, 2011
    9
    As somebody who likes post-apocalyptic settings, this is one of my favorite games of the last few years. It can be difficult to get into, but once the initial barriers are overcome it offers an incredible atmosphere and a fascinating game world. Especially with the Complete mod it's an experience that everybody who is even remotely interested should check out. It can be had for a very lowAs somebody who likes post-apocalyptic settings, this is one of my favorite games of the last few years. It can be difficult to get into, but once the initial barriers are overcome it offers an incredible atmosphere and a fascinating game world. Especially with the Complete mod it's an experience that everybody who is even remotely interested should check out. It can be had for a very low price these days and offers many hours of playtime.… Expand
  91. Defianc4
    Apr 14, 2013
    9
    With the STALKER Complete Mod, all the bugs and lack of polish are stripped away, and what's left is a horribly beautiful treasure of the PC platform.
  92. Panzerfour
    Dec 3, 2011
    9
    I reviewed this game before and gave it a 5 which was unfair ( I was stuck in an underground and out of medkits ). So now I have beaten this game twice now and on my way to a third, I picked up the game again months later and had an easier time and now it is one of my fav games. It has a great and scary atmosphere and pants wetting undergrounds, good guns but they could use more. So thisI reviewed this game before and gave it a 5 which was unfair ( I was stuck in an underground and out of medkits ). So now I have beaten this game twice now and on my way to a third, I picked up the game again months later and had an easier time and now it is one of my fav games. It has a great and scary atmosphere and pants wetting undergrounds, good guns but they could use more. So this game was my least favorite to one of my favorite.… Expand
  93. Matthypaspist
    Aug 17, 2011
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I've recently bought the game to try the series after I've heard good words about it from my friend. I went in expecting a Fallout style game(which i wasnt a huge fan of) and came almost as happy as a video game can make a person. This game has the obvious bugs like durability and nowhere to repair(but things take forever to die out), a mission you HAVE to complete to join duty has bugged out so I cant complete it(and freedom already has me on a shoot on sight list), and early game you should feel a bit rushed on the main mission. (AKA you have a shotgun while you are now facing enemies with medium level SMG's, you can still handle them). Artifacts are a little to prevelent and make, making money, very easy. BUT, there is greatness with this game. The story is compelling to continue with. You dont know who you are and your PDA tells you to kill and unknown man. You just want to beat all these "side" quests and find out what is actually at the center of the Zone. And find this Strelok character. Being able to use the artifacts is a great sub system too. Get that greater edge in running, use some Mama beads to prevent some bullet damage. Increase your health majorly but sacrifice some protection bonuses. The side quests do add some extra fun but going after completing a few quests you will probably have more then enough money for a while and you might accept them only for an exploration opprotunity.… Expand
  94. Doomboss
    Dec 23, 2011
    9
    The graphic for this game is not pretty good, but the way to play it is kind of unique: mix up RPG and shooting game at the same time. I keep looking for some new weapon and ammo, just like i want some better equipment in WOW. But the saving for this game (or the restart point) is kind of bad because the auto save wont save unless you are entering new place, which make me need to restartThe graphic for this game is not pretty good, but the way to play it is kind of unique: mix up RPG and shooting game at the same time. I keep looking for some new weapon and ammo, just like i want some better equipment in WOW. But the saving for this game (or the restart point) is kind of bad because the auto save wont save unless you are entering new place, which make me need to restart from a very far away place just because i forgot to quick save and the game wont restart as close as possible from where i dead. I guess that is what makes the game hard.… Expand
  95. Gettys63
    Feb 2, 2012
    9
    I have play this game four times. It was so tempting game to play for hours. Varies large area to hunt, fight, and meet NPC to experience the horror scenes.
  96. hodub
    Apr 3, 2012
    9
    Gamers from Ukraine should be proud of this one. There is a bit of a learning curve at first, but this game has the perfect blend of realistic combat and survival horror. This is one of the first open-ended FPS games that I know of, so you can explore an open world and take on multiple tasks, preceding award-winning games like Fallout 3. It also features real-world locations, including theGamers from Ukraine should be proud of this one. There is a bit of a learning curve at first, but this game has the perfect blend of realistic combat and survival horror. This is one of the first open-ended FPS games that I know of, so you can explore an open world and take on multiple tasks, preceding award-winning games like Fallout 3. It also features real-world locations, including the city of Pripyat, which was abandoned during the 1986 Chernobyl disaster, and the Chernobyl NPP (Nuclear Power Plant) itself. One can expect Counter-Strike style combat when fighting enemy factions, though there are mutants and even zombies to keep things interesting as well. You'll quickly learn that dashing into a crowd guns blazing is a death wish, even with the best armor. You can buy and sell weapons and equipment. There are Artifacts that you can collect that will enhance your abilities, such as running speed and how bulletproof you are. I won't give away any more spoilers - first time players will have to find out for themselves. Another cult classic in the gaming industry. If you haven't already played it, play it!… Expand
  97. MA3YP
    Apr 6, 2012
    9
    In this game, the life going independent from player. And that's right shows the life situation, which was after the Soviet Union. I wasn't there often, but I can compare the game and the real life situation and architectural style. At least I see so.
  98. ArMoRofGOD
    Nov 26, 2012
    9
    The STALKER series is one of my absolute favorite games series ever made. It is gritty, dark, realistic atmosphere, some of the best AI Ive seen, good graphics for its time, very fun guns, a terrific artifact collecting system that really just sets this game apart, and very importantly extremely interesting and fun missions with a great variety of endings. I died a little when theyThe STALKER series is one of my absolute favorite games series ever made. It is gritty, dark, realistic atmosphere, some of the best AI Ive seen, good graphics for its time, very fun guns, a terrific artifact collecting system that really just sets this game apart, and very importantly extremely interesting and fun missions with a great variety of endings. I died a little when they canceled STALKER 2. Anyone who scores this game low probably experiences a lot of bugs or crashing which I honestly did not find MANY of although there were a few and for a game this good they can be overlooked.… Expand
  99. frankbilders
    Aug 1, 2012
    9
    First off i was impressed with this games atmosphere and realism. Technically the game is sound it has a solid frame rate and not many glitches. The physics are superb, bullets drop while in flight and npc's react realistically when killed by explosives. The sound is really a mixed bag, some weapons sound realistic while others sound like hitting an oil drum, suppressed weapons soundFirst off i was impressed with this games atmosphere and realism. Technically the game is sound it has a solid frame rate and not many glitches. The physics are superb, bullets drop while in flight and npc's react realistically when killed by explosives. The sound is really a mixed bag, some weapons sound realistic while others sound like hitting an oil drum, suppressed weapons sound especially good. The mutants are new ideas and they're actually pretty scary. This games atmosphere is second to none, I am genuinely scared about what lurks behind a door in an underground lab i'm in. The plot i found was easy to follow but not to simple. Voice acting is pretty mediocre and most npc's don't even speak but instead have written dialogue. Though you don't have skill points or anything like that artifacts and armored suits improve your resistance to bullets,chemical's etc. Overall I'd say this game is one of my favorites, I'd even go as far as saying this game is the unsung hero of open world FPS's. It is definitely worth your money.… Expand
  100. Aeryx
    Jun 7, 2014
    9
    Stalker SoC is what happens when you combine Operation Flashpoint and Metro 2033. It's hard to ask for anything more from this game because instead of making you want more, it makes you realize how backwards most of the gaming industry has gone (in 2014). It's a game that doesn't pander to casual types. Totally fierce experience with gunfights killing you in 2-3 hits, nights being crazyStalker SoC is what happens when you combine Operation Flashpoint and Metro 2033. It's hard to ask for anything more from this game because instead of making you want more, it makes you realize how backwards most of the gaming industry has gone (in 2014). It's a game that doesn't pander to casual types. Totally fierce experience with gunfights killing you in 2-3 hits, nights being crazy dark forcing you to rely on your weak flashlight and no, you don't get nightvision until MUCH later in the game. Monsters are ferocious, sneak on you and human enemies are dangerous and fun to fight. Hell, you can talk and trade with 97% of everybody you meet! The zone is a truly inhospitable place that forces you to think, explore, be careful and fight hard to survive. Play this game damnit!… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

33
#33 Best PC Game of 2007
7
#7 Most Discussed PC Game of 2007
8
#8 Most Shared PC Game of 2007

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
82

Generally favorable reviews - based on 44 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 37 out of 44
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 44
  3. Negative: 0 out of 44
  1. PC Zone UK
    85
    As a brave experiment in all-action shootery, STALKER has certainly succeeded, though with its dearth of personality and many peculiar foibles, you can't help but wish that the publishers had granted GSC some extra time to polish their creation. Oh, hang on a minute... [Apr 2007, p.56]
  2. Eurogamer
    80
    It's a warped behemoth from the Ukraine, and one of the scariest games on the PC. Stalker will remind you of all kinds of prior games, and yet it will also defy your expectations. Like the mythological Chernobyl zone it is based upon, this game is a treacherous, darkly beautiful terrain. Not everyone is going to enjoy venturing into the zone, but some of those who do will find what they've been looking for.
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  3. Computer and Video Games
    80
    Littered with a variety of anomalies which can cause the unwary to explode and other delightful stuff, mutant doggies, deserted buildings, weather effects, real-time day/night cycles etc. etc. - it creates a deliciously unique atmosphere.
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