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. Rufousjet
    Dec 2, 2012
    9
    Probably one of my favourite games, this delivers on so many levels. First you have the intriguing and mysterious story that sits comfortably inside the remains of history so if a bit of research is completed than it can seem frighteningly realistic. The atmosphere of the game is amazing, some of if not the best I've encountered sitting up there with metro 2033 and Dark souls. TheProbably one of my favourite games, this delivers on so many levels. First you have the intriguing and mysterious story that sits comfortably inside the remains of history so if a bit of research is completed than it can seem frighteningly realistic. The atmosphere of the game is amazing, some of if not the best I've encountered sitting up there with metro 2033 and Dark souls. The environments, chillingly eerie and oppressive cast a constant sense of danger and paranoia. The equipment and weapons have a realistic touch and the animations are consistently acceptable. The gun play itself is very fun with all the weapons feeling useful as ammo will need to be looted or found unless you want to pay for it. The length was impressive as well with my normal level playthrough clocking in at 15 hours, with me glossing over a lot of the extras.My only gripes would be the bugs which are able to be overlooked if weight of the positives, the way everything is explained isnt really there... at all and the need to look at a wiki to get the fullest experience can be required for some. Throw in fantastic mods and patches to eliminate bugs, enhance the graphics and a $20 usd pricetag on steam its worth it. Get out of here stalker! (and buy yourself this today!)… Expand
  2. GamerFromHell
    Dec 14, 2012
    9
    First of all, this game needs mods to be playable (I suggest "Stalker Complete" and "Realistic Weapons" for starters, but there are others), but then it's one of the best games I've ever played. It has a relatively open world with characters and graphics/weather effects that perfectly support the incredible atmosphere. STALKER, get out of here and play this game!
  3. wolfie2013
    Mar 17, 2013
    9
    S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl is my favourite post Apocalyptic game because this game have really good climate
  4. Rockodss
    Apr 16, 2013
    9
    Great great great game! Absolutly loved it! It is different to others games (FPS). Don't start the game like you are gonna play a campaign of call of duty or you are gonna be upset to the most. Scary as hell at some place Lab x-16&x-17 made me change pants.

    The game itself was very poorly optimised. Probably 1 of their 1st game. There is many guides to tweek the game and some    Great great great game! Absolutly loved it! It is different to others games (FPS). Don't start the game like you are gonna play a campaign of call of duty or you are gonna be upset to the most. Scary as hell at some place Lab x-16&x-17 made me change pants.

    The game itself was very poorly optimised. Probably 1 of their 1st game. There is many guides to tweek the game and some patchs/mods that help the loading time, graphics, errors.

    A most for everyone calling themselves a gamer.    … Expand
  5. iddqd4
    Mar 16, 2018
    9
    Настоящий культ среди русскоговорящих, близкая на всем по духу атмосфера, очень бы хотелось увидеть серию на консолях, но не судьба к сожалению.
  6. Plefsko
    Dec 6, 2013
    9
    Very impressive and immersive FPS! Have not good graphics, but gameplay is awesome! I have finish it 10 times and all times was like different game! Buy it!
  7. AstiX
    Feb 12, 2018
    9
    S.T.A.L.K.E.R. has one of the best open-world settings I've ever had the pleasure of exploring - the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. I love almost everything about this game. The haunting atmosphere of the zone, the ruthlessness of the life as a stalker, trying to survive by grabbing any crappy items you can find. Even the game's unpolished look and bugs somehow add to its charm and atmosphere.S.T.A.L.K.E.R. has one of the best open-world settings I've ever had the pleasure of exploring - the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. I love almost everything about this game. The haunting atmosphere of the zone, the ruthlessness of the life as a stalker, trying to survive by grabbing any crappy items you can find. Even the game's unpolished look and bugs somehow add to its charm and atmosphere. Like that guy that keeps repeating "I said come in, don't stand there!" endlessly when you're entering the Bar, even when you're already inside. Ahh, good times!

    It still looks amazing playing it 10 years later, though to be fair, I did enjoy the game a lot more using fan-made mods that greatly improve the experience.

    Though I usually rush open-world games, I find S.T.A.L.K.E.R. so immersive and relaxing (in a weird way yes) that I take my time to explore every corner of The Zone. Each square foot of the map feels like it's hiding some haunting mystery. The pacing is great and the sense of having to survive is very well executed as you have to struggle to keep finding better weapons and armor all the time to deal with harder challenges.

    What I didn't like is that toward the end you suddenly go from open-world exploration to a 2 hour FPS action chapter, where you fight endless waves and waves of soldiers until you reach the end. Luckily the story is intriguing enough that you want to see what happens in the end.

    It's truly a unique title that really stands out in a crowd of open-wolrd/RPG games.    … Expand
  8. babaganush
    Aug 18, 2015
    9
    game doesnt load slowly for me, no bugs, no glitches and no crashes but thats because i use a decent computer when gaming and dont use a 5 year old or older comp without trying to upgrade it at somepoint. so the game works for me, i liked it, liked the story. just wish the company had not shut down because i like the way these stalker games went. now its just a relic i get to keepgame doesnt load slowly for me, no bugs, no glitches and no crashes but thats because i use a decent computer when gaming and dont use a 5 year old or older comp without trying to upgrade it at somepoint. so the game works for me, i liked it, liked the story. just wish the company had not shut down because i like the way these stalker games went. now its just a relic i get to keep replaying. oh well, i liked the game.… Expand
  9. carlosgtardon
    Jun 10, 2014
    9
    Pese a tener una gran cantidad de bug, problemas y ciertas caídas de calidad, S.T.A.L,K.E.R. es uno de mis juegos favoritos y uno de los pocos que me he pasado la saga entera y lo he rejugado. La historia, los guiños tanto a la película como al libro (picnic extraterrestre, que Metro es muy posterior al juego), el hecho de poder pasear por Chernobyl lo convierte es una experiencia muyPese a tener una gran cantidad de bug, problemas y ciertas caídas de calidad, S.T.A.L,K.E.R. es uno de mis juegos favoritos y uno de los pocos que me he pasado la saga entera y lo he rejugado. La historia, los guiños tanto a la película como al libro (picnic extraterrestre, que Metro es muy posterior al juego), el hecho de poder pasear por Chernobyl lo convierte es una experiencia muy especial. Además se trató de implementar programación por agentes para gestionar los animales del juego. Bajo mi punto de vista muy recomendable, pero tal vez soy muy fan.… Expand
  10. ShodanSpectre
    Sep 19, 2017
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A very immersive, dark, pending-apocalypse-themed game. Made in Ukraine, and as one who grew up in Russia I could really tell the difference in design from western impressions of the post-soviet world.

    I've played through it twice: once with the Arsenal mod - gives more and, more realistic weapons. 2nd time - the "Lost Alpha" version of the game, without any mods. Lost Alpha has some content that has been cut from the final release but, sadly, also some bugs, specifically certain types of Outbursts can get you anywhere - even deep underground in the designated hiding spots you still die. I haven't figured a way around that yet, perhaps one could activate godmode for the duration of the outburst if they reach cover.

    But that aside, the game is very well-made. It gives you an impression that the map is very large and diverse, and also "alive" - there are many things here and there, some can change since you've last visited them. Things that are not really expected but fit into the world really well.

    There are quest-givers that trick and cheat you. "Hehe, you brought what I asked for. Why thank you! And now GTFO while I'm in a good enough mood to let you walk away in one piece." - but, one could expect such people in the world "Stalker" takes place in.

    There are no "good" and "bad". At the beginning - all factions are neutrally-suspicious of you, as one would expect upon arriving at a place where everyone can get backstabbed any moment. The military are following their orders and trying to keep whatever is in the zone from getting out - alive or not. The "Dolg" ("Duty") - group, are a self-organized militia that kind of does the same, or at least claims so, but without government control over it... and while also making a profit of it. The "Svoboda" ("Freedom") group - are more like runaway criminals trying to thrive in a place where even the laws of physics are at times twisted inside out, leave alone man-made ones. But, many of these "criminals" are no worse than the ones who claimed them as such.The player may choose to remain neutral, or to join either the Duty or the Freedom groups. Later in the game, the player discovers the Monolith group, which is less understandable and more dangerous than the previous two. They generally shoot before they talk, yet they aren't just generic NPC gunfodder either.

    The armed NPCs may be not as frightening as some of the mutants, but in this game they are by far the most dangerous enemies, and the AI is particularly good, which isn't often seen in shooter or RPG games. Once alarmed, they don't forget about you 10 sec after loosing sight. They remember you for a long time, they will come at you and smoke you out of your hiding/sniping position, sooner or later.

    The mutants, while less dangerous and sophisticated than the NPCs, and also much less frequent - are a threat mostly when they take you by surprise, esp. at night (btw, nighttime in this game is REALLY dark. Without a flashlight - you can't see a damn thing. With a flashlight... well, you can see a little patch of ground about 10ft ahead of you). Dogs (which look like they are either a bit mutated or just very worn and... just weird in a rather creepy way) are quite common, their behavior is aloof, they are easy to kill during the day with just about any weapon, and one may start disregarding them as insignificant threats... Until one night they get attacked by a tight pack of 5-7 very aggressive dogs at once. On occasion, even rats can become aggressive and pose a threat, when attacking at night in huge numbers, esp. if the player is wounded, low on ammo, and jumped into the abandoned building to heal up or otherwise recover from an encounter that went worse than desired.

    The game does well in showing a world where noone is ever fully safe, no matter where they go. Most characters don't really understand what the f is going on, but are still trying to get through the day and perhaps make some money on the side, to either pay old debts, make a small fortune, or just get drunk at one of the relatively safe hubs scattered throughout the world.

    Through this atmosphere of omnipresent local dangers, such as mutants, anomalies, bandits - the game conveys a sense that something big is coming from the heart of the Zone. Something many, many times worse than what has happened already. Something that must be prevented at any cost. And the protagonist seems to be somehow related to it, through vague clues scattered throughout the world.

    The environment, resource management, voice acting - in this game is very good and atmospheric. I've found only a couple bugs, at least in the Lost Alpha version. But they can be gamebreaking / progression-halting later in the game, when you reach the vault door.

    The firearms and combat could have been made a bit more realistic (the enemies as well as the character are a bit damage-spongy in vanilla), but there are mods to fix that.

    Overall great game.    … Expand
  11. derek10
    Feb 8, 2015
    9
    Good atmosphere (night-day cycles, specially),huge realistic levels based on real life Chernobyl Alienation Zone, design, and gameplay. It has some graphic glitches like some trees or objects disappearing, the voice acting and history could be a bit better but it's still enjoyable.
  12. HungryVovka
    Jun 20, 2020
    9
    This is stil the most famous game for Russia. The gloomy design of the cards, scary monsters and anomalies, science fiction about current events in the region of the Exclusion Zone.
  13. inkblowout
    May 16, 2016
    9
    S.T.A.L.K.E.R: Shadow of Chernobyl hands down has to be the best atmospheric game I've ever played. It's a FPS mixed in with a few RPG elements. It's like Fallout and battlefield got together and had a baby. (because of the gunplay and the "Post Apocalypse" setting)

    The story, not gonna spoil anything. The story is comparable to "Bourne Identity" but it has it's own twists and makes it    S.T.A.L.K.E.R: Shadow of Chernobyl hands down has to be the best atmospheric game I've ever played. It's a FPS mixed in with a few RPG elements. It's like Fallout and battlefield got together and had a baby. (because of the gunplay and the "Post Apocalypse" setting)

    The story, not gonna spoil anything. The story is comparable to "Bourne Identity" but it has it's own twists and makes it memorable. The story in short words is that you have to track down a guy named "Strelok" and you have to kill him, and because your character was involved in a truck crash... Your character has to get that memory back and understand what's going on. The story makes it prefect because you are in the same position like the character you are playing (refered to as "Marked One") You have no clue what's going on... Which makes this part of the game great.

    The pacing of the game goes really well from the beginning to Pripyat and the pacing varies for each playstyle. You can play slow and take your time and enjoy the environment and explore or you can rush and breeze through the side missions and the main story. But until you reach Pripyat.. the pacing goes fast and I'm a slow player so I was like "Wtf this is really pacing up now" it kinda forces you to keep going but pacing was back to normal until I hit the Chernobyl NNP so that's the only problem I have with the game personally.

    Overall.. yes the game is extremely buggy and I found myself frustrated that the game would crash when spending at a certain area too long. (Dark valley) but what I've learned that GSC wasn't a huge game company so I forgive them for this, and plus there are many mods (like that 2009 complete mod or whatever) which fixes the game. So people shouldn't really be complaining about the bugs because there are fixes for it. But I loved this game, the atmosphere as mentioned before is great. You feel very immersed into the game and I would recommend this to anyone who likes these types of games.    … Expand
  14. Mo3gottar
    Jan 17, 2019
    9
    The Best apocalyptic game from Ukrain,made by some slavs with Adidas game engine
  15. Marked_One
    Mar 29, 2017
    9
    In my top 5 of best games I ever played. The story is pretty good, the gameplay is really good and it's really atmospheric. While you can say that the textures are dated, the fact that the game was in developement hell and even managed to pull it out as an actually good game shows that the developers actually knew what they did. However, sometimes enemies are bullet sponges, and it'sIn my top 5 of best games I ever played. The story is pretty good, the gameplay is really good and it's really atmospheric. While you can say that the textures are dated, the fact that the game was in developement hell and even managed to pull it out as an actually good game shows that the developers actually knew what they did. However, sometimes enemies are bullet sponges, and it's plagued by bugs, more than you would find in your house's attic.
    All in all, a really great game.    … Expand
  16. EasyHL
    Jun 11, 2018
    9
    Хорошая игра, 9/10. Это шедевр, минус балл за баги, а так игра хорошая.
  17. LetMePickThat
    Aug 7, 2018
    9
    Outdated graphically speaking, yet manages to convey an incredible ambiance. The list of shorcomings of this game is very long, yet it remains an absolute classic and should be played, with mods, by anyone who liked the Metro or the Fallout series.
  18. TheLedPonty
    Sep 3, 2018
    9
    Культовая игра с непередаемым советским колоритом и атмосферой отчужденности. Игра, определенно прошедшая проверку временем в лице непрерывающегося конвеера модификаций от игроков, начиная с 2008 года.
  19. Yuv
    Apr 22, 2019
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. its hard and good but Sometimes it's not fair as you go to another part of the map so I happen to be right next to enemies and it's a bit annoying but okay but it does not ruin the game on a level that can not be played… Expand
  20. Genek13
    Nov 20, 2019
    9
    This game taked me from surprise :) The atmosphere is outstanding !!!
    Every other aspect is also very good and unique :)
    If you never played this game before dont hasitate, bought it and give it a try :)
  21. nvt
    Jun 6, 2020
    9
    Эта игра дар богов, но даже у таких шедевров бывают минусы, первый минус допонительные квесты заключаются в том, что надо подать и принести и кого-то убить.И второй болия важный и существенный минус баги и легендарный зельоный жук, но поправде говоря в последних версиях зельоный жук почти пропалЭта игра дар богов, но даже у таких шедевров бывают минусы, первый минус допонительные квесты заключаются в том, что надо подать и принести и кого-то убить.И второй болия важный и существенный минус баги и легендарный зельоный жук, но поправде говоря в последних версиях зельоный жук почти пропал
  22. wagnerow
    Nov 30, 2020
    9
    This game is incredible. The history and atmosphere are unique. The graphics are not beautiful, but it is not a problem, because the game is very engaging.
  23. DarkFlower
    Jun 28, 2020
    9
    Помню как в далёком 2008 году я взял диск с этой у своего друга, который уверял меня, что поиграв в эту игру один раз, я уже никогда её не забуду.
    Я не забыл. Легендарная игра, и самая лучшая игра созданная до сих пор в СНГ
  24. Spajry
    Nov 15, 2021
    9
    so the game is not for everybody, u must have patience to play this game as its kinda broken and likes to crash, but the story is great, gunplay and graphics is ok. i liked the game and recommend to play it
  25. nexus151196
    Sep 6, 2020
    9
    Великая игра , с фантастической атмосферой. Сюжет даже спустя столько лет - не отпускает. Часто сижу на вики и читаю всё, что связано с серией. Стрельба хорошая, графика тоже, музыка пробирает до мурашек. Игру смело можно назвать классикой жанра.Великая игра , с фантастической атмосферой. Сюжет даже спустя столько лет - не отпускает. Часто сижу на вики и читаю всё, что связано с серией. Стрельба хорошая, графика тоже, музыка пробирает до мурашек. Игру смело можно назвать классикой жанра.
  26. Rolikkk1488
    Apr 1, 2021
    9
    Лучшая игра. По моему в ней все идеаотро, ща исключением большого количества багов.
  27. KolesAdlerov
    Jul 2, 2023
    9
    Can't say it's a "10" because of buggy engine. One of the two best AI ever made for a first-person. One of the two most advanced engines ever made for a first-person. The most atmospheric open-world ever created. "TRULY DARK NIGHTS" settings or mods are strongly RECOMMENDED.

    Gameplay: combat mechanics 9/10 stealth 7/10 atmosphere 10/10 Gameplay as immersive horror (X-labs and dark    Can't say it's a "10" because of buggy engine. One of the two best AI ever made for a first-person. One of the two most advanced engines ever made for a first-person. The most atmospheric open-world ever created. "TRULY DARK NIGHTS" settings or mods are strongly RECOMMENDED.

    Gameplay:
    combat mechanics 9/10
    stealth 7/10
    atmosphere 10/10
    Gameplay as immersive horror (X-labs and dark nights) 10/10
    Gameplay as RPG & im.sim (w/o mods): 7/10

    Story 9/10

    Graphics 10/10

    Sounds & music 10/10

    .
    Immersion as it is.    … Expand
  28. Kuzya_Zeleniy
    Oct 31, 2022
    9
    Very atmospheric game! She is very close to my heart.
    Mecheny and Sydorovich are real icons!
    Very good gameplay. And the main thing is interesting! The plot is also not bad. But personally, I would like better. But there are also disadvantages. The game has a lot of bugs. For example, when you are killed, you can fall into a texture. Legend! Legend of Ukrainian games! Therefore, I    Very atmospheric game! She is very close to my heart.
    Mecheny and Sydorovich are real icons!
    Very good gameplay. And the main thing is interesting!
    The plot is also not bad. But personally, I would like better.
    But there are also disadvantages. The game has a lot of bugs. For example, when you are killed, you can fall into a texture.
    Legend! Legend of Ukrainian games! Therefore, I will be very much waiting for Stalker 2. I hope that it will be released at least this decade)    … Expand
  29. DarkFox82b
    Mar 12, 2022
    9
    Доволі не погана ігра, яка порадує вас, як мінімум на кілька вечорів( не маленька) і яка привела до появи Чистого неба( моєї першої ігри з серії, що пішла на комп'ютері), Зову Прип'яті пізніше. Але грати після 2, 3 частини на першу не так сильно задовільняє/комфортно. Проте не дивлячись на це спробувати варто. 8.5/10(тому 9)Доволі не погана ігра, яка порадує вас, як мінімум на кілька вечорів( не маленька) і яка привела до появи Чистого неба( моєї першої ігри з серії, що пішла на комп'ютері), Зову Прип'яті пізніше. Але грати після 2, 3 частини на першу не так сильно задовільняє/комфортно. Проте не дивлячись на це спробувати варто. 8.5/10(тому 9)
  30. GegorSK
    Aug 13, 2022
    9
    I started playing in 2015, then I abandoned it, and after 7 years I came back to play again, I hope the second part will be less problematic than this one, yes there were crashes, bugs, but nevertheless, I want to support the Ukrainian company, and I hope that The second part of the Stalker will be good.
  31. Napolaen
    May 28, 2022
    9
    A cult classic that mostly stands the test of time. It has some bugs but is still a quite exciting shooter.
  32. EVIL_UJIN
    Oct 15, 2022
    9
    Да, она не идеальна. Да, много багов. Да, куча вырезанного контента. Но это все равно одна из самых любимых игр, с неповторимой атмосферой, которой больше нет нигде. Прошел уже 3 раза.
    Разработчикам удалось создать ощущение, что Зона живет сама по себе, неважно, есть ли игрок или нет. Ты - не мессия, не спаситель человечества, не супергерой с большой пушкой. Ты - безымянный сталкер, каких    Да, она не идеальна. Да, много багов. Да, куча вырезанного контента. Но это все равно одна из самых любимых игр, с неповторимой атмосферой, которой больше нет нигде. Прошел уже 3 раза.
    Разработчикам удалось создать ощущение, что Зона живет сама по себе, неважно, есть ли игрок или нет. Ты - не мессия, не спаситель человечества, не супергерой с большой пушкой. Ты - безымянный сталкер, каких сотни бродят по Зоне. Жив ты или мертв, злой или добрый - всем наплевать. Ты сам за себя, один на один с Зоной и ее обитателями.    … Expand
  33. Formula3
    Jan 29, 2023
    9
    Jogasso.... ja o virei vezes sem conta... estou a fazer novamente.. unico no seu estilo...
  34. greensmile
    Apr 17, 2023
    9
    S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: THE SHADOW OF CHERNOBYL is definitely one of the most atmospheric shooters with RPG and horror elements ever made, in which the crooked engine with bugs is the only problem that does not allow to give 10 points
  35. XAXFEE
    Aug 13, 2023
    9
    after years of developing the stalker game rejoiced players from Ukraine and other countries,i think it`s one of the best games from 2000.
  36. MehmetT
    Jun 2, 2008
    8
    If the developers had taken the time to properly polish this game, I would have easily bestowed it a score of 9 or 10. But this game STILL has, even with the latest patch and after so much time after its release, an annoying number of bugs and glitches. A number of side missions appear to be glitched or broken. The game stutters, crashes and causes the computer to freeze randomly, EVENIf the developers had taken the time to properly polish this game, I would have easily bestowed it a score of 9 or 10. But this game STILL has, even with the latest patch and after so much time after its release, an annoying number of bugs and glitches. A number of side missions appear to be glitched or broken. The game stutters, crashes and causes the computer to freeze randomly, EVEN when you tone down the graphics settings to something your computer can easily handle. It also has excessively high system requirements. Weapon ballistics are mostly very realistic, though at times weird things seem to happen, like when you shoot your enemy at point blank range with a shotgun and somehow still miss. Your combat knife is a complete joke, most of the times it doesn't even seem to hit your enemy. Features that should have been included in the game are sorely missing, like there is no way to repair your weapons or armor, and your only option of travel is on foot, no vehicles, no optional fast travel (the game takes place in a pretty large map). The game features a large quantity of weirdly translated in-game dialogues; as if the translations to English were done by someone who didn't properly understand the English language. To me this is a serious flaw because it detracts from the mood of the game. And overall, the game feels like a number of exciting and innovative gaming features that have just been thrown together instead of having made sure everything works well together. This last flaw is important because Stalker isn't simply a FPS where you go about gunning down your foes, it's also about doing missions, scavenging, exploring, and surviving in an unforgiving landscape. In the end, Stalker promises to be an original and really exciting game; but it's simply dragged down by its bugs, glitches and unpolished gaming features.… Expand
  37. EzJ
    Mar 25, 2007
    8
    After years of development, S.T.A.L.K.E.R comes through and delivers a first rate experience in almost every way. If not for a few minor bugs and some poorly localized text, this would have got a 9.
  38. AnonymousMC
    May 2, 2008
    8
    good game but bugs are getting very annoying and developers don't fix them, like they are pretending that they don't see/find them. that's very very strange.

    Robin Z says he needs cheats to play it? what a noob! =) this game isn't that difficult if you find cool armor and weapons. Search better! STALKER is meant for exploration too, not just running straight    good game but bugs are getting very annoying and developers don't fix them, like they are pretending that they don't see/find them. that's very very strange.

    Robin Z says he needs cheats to play it? what a noob! =)
    this game isn't that difficult if you find cool armor and weapons. Search better! STALKER is meant for exploration too, not just running straight dead ahead.

    and that's exactly the idea that you know nothing about the zone when you play this game first time, isn't that more interesting??    … Expand
  39. FrazerS.
    May 8, 2008
    8
    I have to say, this game is broken. NPCs get stuck walking into walks, they attack each other and bodies spasm out of control on the floor. Yet if you can ignore all of that like i did, it's a great game. I was never excited about this game when it first came out but when it was on Steam for cheap, i thought i may aswell try it. I'm glad i did. The less you know about the game, I have to say, this game is broken. NPCs get stuck walking into walks, they attack each other and bodies spasm out of control on the floor. Yet if you can ignore all of that like i did, it's a great game. I was never excited about this game when it first came out but when it was on Steam for cheap, i thought i may aswell try it. I'm glad i did. The less you know about the game, the more times you swear when a monster jumps out at you in a basement because you don't expect something like that.… Expand
  40. CatherineQ
    Jun 1, 2008
    8
    I dont normally play FPS im a bit naff at them and ive never really enjoyed rampaging around but with its role playing elements, a good story and multiple endings depending on your actions this game drew me in and ive become addicted. Its tragic about the bugs, some of which have crashed my laptop but do give this a go, its worth it.
  41. AndrewM.
    Mar 29, 2007
    8
    S.T.A.L.K.E.R. is a fascinating game. To no other title would I devote so much of my time while the game was damn near broken. I have a fairly decent rig, but the game runs like garbage in single player, I have to play in windowed mode with the settings at low-medium and I get a terrible frame rate much of the time. Despite that fact though, I push onward because for every time I want to S.T.A.L.K.E.R. is a fascinating game. To no other title would I devote so much of my time while the game was damn near broken. I have a fairly decent rig, but the game runs like garbage in single player, I have to play in windowed mode with the settings at low-medium and I get a terrible frame rate much of the time. Despite that fact though, I push onward because for every time I want to stop playing and wait for the inevitable patches, there is an instant in which the game completely and utterly surprises me. If you were (or maybe, like me, still are) a fan of Fallout 2 and really wish they would hurry the hell up with making Fallout 3 the sequel we all hoped for, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. should certainly make the wait easier. Hell, they could have released it a year from now after all the issues were fixed and called it Fallout 3 and I would not have complained. An amazing game.… Expand
  42. MikeL.
    Jul 15, 2007
    8
    Has a learning curve of sorts, you really need to figure out how best to survive in your environment. That being said, the game designers said that's what they wanted. I think this game is fantastic, I think the graphics are quite spectacular, even though they rely on very high rig specs. This game might have the best gun fights I've ever seen in a game. The Ai is impressive, Has a learning curve of sorts, you really need to figure out how best to survive in your environment. That being said, the game designers said that's what they wanted. I think this game is fantastic, I think the graphics are quite spectacular, even though they rely on very high rig specs. This game might have the best gun fights I've ever seen in a game. The Ai is impressive, they take cover very well and will escape if they feel out-gunned, they will even hid so they can ambush you later. I enjoy the inventory system they use in this game, you can find detachable under barrel grenade launchers and scopes for your weapons, armor and relics of the wastes. The environmental qualities of the game are above that of HL2 if not as varied. Most everywhere you go will be very.....Russian. The grass isn't going to be bright green and there won't be palm tress but there are still sunny days and it feels like summer sometimes. The designers took trips to Russia to get it right. I think they did, if you like abandoned buildings, research labs, makeshift military camps, sewers etc in quarantine zones you'll like the setting. There are dynamic day/night cycles, which means if you speed up time you see the sun raising and setting and the shadows growing longer, very cool. There is also a dynamic weather system, there is nothing cooler than having a gunfight with an enemy faction through the streets of an abandoned city with flashes of lightning lighting up everything around you and casting realistic shadows of all the trees and buildings. It's needless to say at this point that the real-time shadows are re-donk-ulous. One of the cons of this game is that every-time you move through an area and it needs to reload it, the enemies come back. Which is a huge jolt of unrealism, because the bodies stay for like a week game time. So after clearing out one of the much larger camps of 50 or so enemies and you go back, you have mounds of corpses. I built a wall via "300" of corpses, must have been 80 or so, that's the most un-realilistic thing ever. Another con is that to enjoy the awesome graphics you need to have a computer that can run Oblivion without dropping below 30 fps at any time. It seems to me that the longer I play the more I take a hit on fps because the game has more to remember in high traffic areas. You need a moderately powerful computer to run this game well. Personally I haven't had any crash error problems, but I hear that's a common launch problem. If you install the first patch your save games from V1.00 don't work anymore. It has issues, but I feel I got more than my moneys worth in this game.… Expand
  43. anon
    Feb 23, 2008
    8
    It has a good amount of annoying bugs and quirks, but its still one of the best games I have played. Very good game!
  44. AdamWainwright
    Mar 22, 2008
    8
    I have been wainting for this game to come out for years and was quite happy with the end result. I had to upgrade my rig just to run it smoothly. The story lines not bad and love the multiple ending. I have played it about 4 times and gonna start it again soon.
  45. MarkP
    Jun 8, 2009
    8
    I think this is a great game. It's not perfect, but it's good. One person has mentioned a poor tutorial and this I agree with. The in-game help when starting should be more thorough. But the world where the player lives in is incredible. The movments of the mutant animals and just the feeling of being in a wastleand is so realistic. Currently, I have not finished the game, but I think this is a great game. It's not perfect, but it's good. One person has mentioned a poor tutorial and this I agree with. The in-game help when starting should be more thorough. But the world where the player lives in is incredible. The movments of the mutant animals and just the feeling of being in a wastleand is so realistic. Currently, I have not finished the game, but night has fallen and I'm too scared to continue so I've headed back to camp. I'm not sure what to do now. My only ral gripe is a better tutorial especially when it comes to using the PDA and getting through the missions.… Expand
  46. KevinD.
    Oct 22, 2007
    8
    Great ending. Tough game, but not insurmountable with a good mix of action and maze. Gameplay is not as non-linear as some reviews make it out to be -- like most games you pretty much have to follow the missions to get anywhere. Great dark, cynical story line and plenty of weapons. No vehicles though.
  47. ColonelH.
    Mar 19, 2007
    8
    At the end of the day it's a solid and enjoyable game, but after all this time I was expecting a little more. Just a bit more polish. Still, it will probably go down as one of the top PC games of 2007 (even though it should really have been 2004 or 2005). In time it will probably come to be regarded as a classic.
  48. Nikm
    May 10, 2007
    8
    I think this game is really fun! the AI is amazing, and the creepy world of chernobyl is great, but the graphics arent great, and really, when was the last game , no, good game, where you had to read with most characters, not on a port(Zelda?) I really enjoyed it though, the gunfights are some of the best ever. Now here is where im confused...Its amazingly realistic, but maybe tooI think this game is really fun! the AI is amazing, and the creepy world of chernobyl is great, but the graphics arent great, and really, when was the last game , no, good game, where you had to read with most characters, not on a port(Zelda?) I really enjoyed it though, the gunfights are some of the best ever. Now here is where im confused...Its amazingly realistic, but maybe too realistic? Example, i had to do a mission for duty, and the quest giver (skull) dies, and i am unable to join duty, and at war with freedom. Not a huge thing, i mean, in real life, the person who hired you could die, but do people want games to be real life? overall though this is what i think of the games sub scores (from most important to least) Combat: 9 Realism: 10 AI: 9 Technicaly sound:4 Graphics:7 originality: 8 Dialoge: 6… Expand
  49. SeanW.
    Sep 15, 2007
    8
    This game is ver good, it has a very interesting concept and a very unique story not seen very often in video games now adays, and the inlusion of a real world area is very cool. I just love the atmsphere this game create, I warn you tho don't play at night in a dark room, cuz yo'll be sleeping with the light on lol.
  50. AlextheMenacevonMenace
    Apr 14, 2008
    8
    How I love this game. But, wait... I gave it a 8 because: The game is really great. The atmosphere, the graphics, the open world... but...wait again: There isn't no open world. There are FENCES and FENCES and FENCES. The difficulty is very very hard though, I played it at... Beginner, its "Anfänger" in German (I am from Germany)... I played the 1,0005 Version with the Weather How I love this game. But, wait... I gave it a 8 because: The game is really great. The atmosphere, the graphics, the open world... but...wait again: There isn't no open world. There are FENCES and FENCES and FENCES. The difficulty is very very hard though, I played it at... Beginner, its "Anfänger" in German (I am from Germany)... I played the 1,0005 Version with the Weather Overhaul Mod, this is something I would recommend!… Expand
  51. jaeq
    Aug 13, 2008
    8
    I'm reviewing this because unlike most people I think I have a good viewpoint, and i'm completely non-bias about this game. Overall, it's good. I first bought stalker over a year ago, and guess what, I stopped playing after 20-30 minutes.
    Now that the summer is settling down, I needed something to kill time. So I reinstalled STALKER, updated and played, now the updates    I'm reviewing this because unlike most people I think I have a good viewpoint, and i'm completely non-bias about this game. Overall, it's good. I first bought stalker over a year ago, and guess what, I stopped playing after 20-30 minutes.
    Now that the summer is settling down, I needed something to kill time. So I reinstalled STALKER, updated and played, now the updates fixed most of the bugs, the game is no longer any more buggy than ur next game. Still I saw some problems, first thing was the combat experience I noticed almost no blood and the sound on the starting pistol just had to go, I went on filefront, downloaded a recommended mod (Oblivion Lost), that aimed to make Stalker how it's pre-realease features were, new game, was improved but seemed just avg, but once I got lets say 20-25% into the game things started getting much cooler, and I'll say a 9 for experience, but I'm leaving it an 8 since it required a mod to deck it out with features.    … Expand
  52. DannyM
    Aug 30, 2009
    8
    pretty good game the graphics are decent and the game play was fun and good. There is the problem with the bugs which was alot but the game was still good and the guns were really cool, if you liked shadow of chernobyl you will like clear sky as well
  53. ChrisNielsen
    Aug 8, 2009
    8
    Yeah, there are a few bugs and gameplay can be slightly choppy at times, not to mention the translations are sometimes hard to interpret, but jesus christ, this game has by far the best atmosphere of any game out there, PERIOD

    If you're looking for an immersible storyline and something to make you crap your pants, look no further
  54. JackT.
    Jun 12, 2008
    8
    This game is very emersive and well played out, but there are a few bugs and AI quirks that really hurt the game. A bug cause my system to crash and I had to delete everything and re-install, now I have to start from scratch with a new character. Hope Clear Sky fixes the problems. The -2 is for the technical stuff, otherwise its an amazing survival game. Warning: If you go into this gameThis game is very emersive and well played out, but there are a few bugs and AI quirks that really hurt the game. A bug cause my system to crash and I had to delete everything and re-install, now I have to start from scratch with a new character. Hope Clear Sky fixes the problems. The -2 is for the technical stuff, otherwise its an amazing survival game. Warning: If you go into this game looking for fast paced shoot-em-up action. You'll be wasting money, it is truly based on survival and you have to use every means possible to stay comfortably alive. Also, the swaying takes a bit to get used to.… Expand
  55. michaelshaw
    Jun 28, 2008
    8
    Fantastic game, limited by some amazingly bad bugs. One in particular with freedom/duty that completly breaks both mission lines. there are times where the ai is fantastic, and others where the ai seems completely lost. The special thing about stalker, however, is you are willing to ignore those bugs, because the rest of the game is done so well, atmosphere, storyline, etc. being in theFantastic game, limited by some amazingly bad bugs. One in particular with freedom/duty that completly breaks both mission lines. there are times where the ai is fantastic, and others where the ai seems completely lost. The special thing about stalker, however, is you are willing to ignore those bugs, because the rest of the game is done so well, atmosphere, storyline, etc. being in the middle of an intense fire fight, and having your weapon jam is a fantastic touch. you would think its annoying, but after a while, you wonder if you would have it any other way. It throws me back to my days of playing Neocron, where i was able to ignore the many bugs for an amazingly long time as i was so caught up in the feel of the game. One of the FEW games where I look forward to the sequel. the amount, and sometimes the scope, of the bugs in this game bring my rating down from 10 to 8.… Expand
  56. RobW
    Aug 26, 2008
    8
    I got this game off steam for a very good price, I believe the product is worth mor than what I payed, a fantastic game with brilliant gameplay, AI, setting and innovation. This game can hold me for hours at a time. However it takes a bit of time learning everything, and the enemy are very hard when you start, but once your over that, a serious contender for my favorite FPS!
  57. RhennaO
    Oct 26, 2009
    8
    This game has captivated me for several months. Yes, it has a few warts, but it is a wonderfully immersive and atmospheric shooter. There is a bit of a learning-curve required, so those suffering from ADD need not apply. I would rate it even higher if I took the available mods into account.
  58. JarettE.
    Nov 11, 2007
    8
    This was a great game. Loading screens took a little bit out of it, but the game made up in great game play. I thought the AI was pretty good, the best i've ever seen for a long time. I wish there were more side missions and more "haunted villages" to roam and find. If you like fps, rpg's, and thrillers like 28 days later this game is for you. Weapon selection was slightly This was a great game. Loading screens took a little bit out of it, but the game made up in great game play. I thought the AI was pretty good, the best i've ever seen for a long time. I wish there were more side missions and more "haunted villages" to roam and find. If you like fps, rpg's, and thrillers like 28 days later this game is for you. Weapon selection was slightly disappointing, to get most of the good stuff you have to look real hard though.… Expand
  59. ColbyA.
    Dec 21, 2007
    8
    Another great game, in the spirit of Deus Ex. While it had no RPG elements like character building, it still felt like a great shooter with roleplaying in it. I liked the feeling and environment of the game, as well as the gameplay. the AI was a little rocky though, if I recall. Saving system left something to be desired. And... well I think the ending was kind of silly and I didn't Another great game, in the spirit of Deus Ex. While it had no RPG elements like character building, it still felt like a great shooter with roleplaying in it. I liked the feeling and environment of the game, as well as the gameplay. the AI was a little rocky though, if I recall. Saving system left something to be desired. And... well I think the ending was kind of silly and I didn't feel closure. But it was still great fun to play and had a feeling that no other shooter has.… Expand
  60. boomshanka
    Apr 8, 2012
    8
    I initially gave up on this game after several crashes and a growing frustration with the game mechanics. But in spite of the different bugs and steep learning curve I kept coming back for another run because of the absolutely breathtaking atmosphere of the game. Once you start to accept the fact that you can't just rush in and start spreading bullets around the game becomes somethingI initially gave up on this game after several crashes and a growing frustration with the game mechanics. But in spite of the different bugs and steep learning curve I kept coming back for another run because of the absolutely breathtaking atmosphere of the game. Once you start to accept the fact that you can't just rush in and start spreading bullets around the game becomes something entirely in it's own class.

    The decay-and-rust-alike graphics along with the sound design makes the weapons look really great and with a good variety of types and modifications. The reliability and accuracy of the early weapons are affected by this and you find yourself forced to plan your approach and devise a strategy accordingly. Even the enemy AI shows remarkable intelligence as they try to surround you and flank your position. You need to think fast and be adaptable in order to overcome the challenges in this game but once you learn how to survive the reward is fantastic. Unfortunately this also makes the game a bit too easy near the end but you're still looking at many hours of solid entertainment. I admit this game may not please everyone and at this point it is probably very outdated, but if you're a post-nuclear apocalyptic FPS fan you owe yourself to try out this game    … Expand
  61. ChrisOzzie
    Apr 27, 2013
    8
    “The Zone” is a genuine uninhabitable region in the Ukraine covered in nuclear fallout. STALKER took this idea, made a few fictional tweaks, and established a creepy world with paranormal scenery. The enemies are creatively designed to depict mutated forms of life that’ll frighten and shock you. The atmosphere, setting, and environment are STALKER’s power play. The thunderstorms are“The Zone” is a genuine uninhabitable region in the Ukraine covered in nuclear fallout. STALKER took this idea, made a few fictional tweaks, and established a creepy world with paranormal scenery. The enemies are creatively designed to depict mutated forms of life that’ll frighten and shock you. The atmosphere, setting, and environment are STALKER’s power play. The thunderstorms are awesome, the anomalies are bizarre and the bloodsuckers will have you jump out of your seat. Venturing through The Zone after sunset will make you very uneasy and keep you on your toes. This is a unique game with a lot of potential. Add the STALKER complete mod and prepare yourself for a scary and paranormal experience in The Zone. I highly recommend this game to sandbox, first person shooter, or even RPG fans.… Expand
  62. SlickRick
    Mar 6, 2012
    8
    As much as I want to give SoC a 10/10, I have to be real about it. The game is definitely a solid 8/10 without mods, WITH mods it is easily a 9/10.

    There could honestly be more mutants in ALL STALKER games, but there is definitely a charm about the mutants that are already in the game. There's nothing like being out at night when it's PITCH black and you hear a bloodsucker breathing and    As much as I want to give SoC a 10/10, I have to be real about it. The game is definitely a solid 8/10 without mods, WITH mods it is easily a 9/10.

    There could honestly be more mutants in ALL STALKER games, but there is definitely a charm about the mutants that are already in the game. There's nothing like being out at night when it's PITCH black and you hear a bloodsucker breathing and you don't know WHAT the f*** is going on

    The games atmosphere is a 10/10, no doubt about it

    The STALKER series is easily my favorite game series, and if you enjoy a challenging FPS with RPG elements, brilliant atmosphere, with plenty of scariness thrown in the mix. You will adore STALKER    … Expand
  63. CannibalBob
    May 21, 2012
    8
    STALKER's expansive, detailed and living world is enhanced by the eerie atmosphere, bizarre story and downright creepy monsters. The gameplay makes STALKER shine; with challenging, unforgiving, yet supremely satisfying gunplay, the RPG elements littered about include weapon scavenging, quests and random encounters. Ammunition is scarce, so rationing is of utmost importance, and utilizingSTALKER's expansive, detailed and living world is enhanced by the eerie atmosphere, bizarre story and downright creepy monsters. The gameplay makes STALKER shine; with challenging, unforgiving, yet supremely satisfying gunplay, the RPG elements littered about include weapon scavenging, quests and random encounters. Ammunition is scarce, so rationing is of utmost importance, and utilizing the day/night cycle to maximize damage with sneak attacks is a common strategy.
    While quests are enjoyable, they ultimately felt pointless since vendors rarely have ammunition you need, so the earned income was largely worthless. Engine issues would cause corrupted saved games on occasion, and some heavy tweaks were needed to get acceptable graphical settings. Lastly, the weight-based inventory system was beyond restrictive in an un-modded game.
    STALKER is an amazing game recommended to FPS fans who crave some non-linearity and some serious challenge in their game.    … Expand
  64. Hudson633
    Aug 15, 2012
    8
    I love this, because I love singleplayer experience gameplay, that allows you to roam around with whatever equipment you want. There's a good mix of freedom, side missions, and storyline missions that you have to complete to progress. You can always go backwards, hunt for things, sell your treasures, buy weapons and ammo, until the endgame. The endgame itself is long, and took me totallyI love this, because I love singleplayer experience gameplay, that allows you to roam around with whatever equipment you want. There's a good mix of freedom, side missions, and storyline missions that you have to complete to progress. You can always go backwards, hunt for things, sell your treasures, buy weapons and ammo, until the endgame. The endgame itself is long, and took me totally by surprise at how epic it turned out to be. I was completely satisfied with it, seeing how such a modest game could unmask itself as being so brilliant. I wish I'd played it sooner, and had higher expectations with it, or I might never have tried it out. If you enjoy this and want a multiplayer version, I think DayZ mod is quite similar.… Expand
  65. Klewer
    Nov 15, 2012
    8
    A game that puts you in to an amazing world and attempts to make you feel part of it. Some truly scary and haunting moments as well as a strong story make it highly enjoyable. A few bugs and quirky moments but easily glossed over.
  66. stranglehold
    Oct 18, 2013
    8
    Awakening in the Zone, you are one such S.T.A.L.K.E.R., fighting for survival in this man-made Hell, while trying to discover the truth behind Chernobyl's sinister past and ominous future. Patient players looking for a unique experience ultimately will be rewarded by this atmospheric and ambitious shooter.
  67. sft
    Apr 3, 2015
    8
    Mutant mayhem

    The STALKER games have a reputation for being tough, and it’s well-deserved -- this is probably the most challenging single-player game I’ve played. Both the open world and the AI are very unforgiving. There are constant dangers not just from the wide variety of enemies but also from high levels of radiation and strange spatial anomalies. The Zone is a large place and    Mutant mayhem

    The STALKER games have a reputation for being tough, and it’s well-deserved -- this is probably the most challenging single-player game I’ve played. Both the open world and the AI are very unforgiving. There are constant dangers not just from the wide variety of enemies but also from high levels of radiation and strange spatial anomalies. The Zone is a large place and during the course of the game you get to visit a diverse range of environments and encounter many weird malevolent forces. The combat is always demanding and requires a good deal of strategic thinking given that you have to deal with other health-depleting factors at the same time. The story, although it does suffer from the usual lack of focus as a result of non-linear gameplay and some uninspiring side quests, is still reasonably strong and engaging. Graphically it’s quite impressive, although I should point out that I installed the STALKER Complete 2009 mod from the get-go, which (as I understand it) improves on the vanilla game in this area. It’s true that there are some annoying bugs, but they didn’t dampen my enjoyment of the game too much. And even though the weapons and armour deteriorate (a feature I’m not overly fond of) the speed with which this occurs is more realistic than in many RPGs so it didn’t bug me too much. Overall the game scores very highly for its outstanding atmosphere, which is one of the most engrossing, and idiosyncratic, that I’ve encountered. Highly recommended.    … Expand
  68. arcizlo
    Sep 27, 2014
    8
    One of the most atmospheric shooter games I had a chance to play. It is quite realistic in terms of shooter, meaning you will get easily if under-equipped, basic guns are quite inaccurate, you bleed a lot, get poisoned, radiated and so on. Introduction of anomalies and artifacts system is amazing, loved just running around, collecting everything. The story might be little chaotic, plus theOne of the most atmospheric shooter games I had a chance to play. It is quite realistic in terms of shooter, meaning you will get easily if under-equipped, basic guns are quite inaccurate, you bleed a lot, get poisoned, radiated and so on. Introduction of anomalies and artifacts system is amazing, loved just running around, collecting everything. The story might be little chaotic, plus the different endings need more than one playing to fully enjoy the game, but it isnt game for ordinary "lets go shoot something" player. The further parts of the game are quite scary, you find yourself overwhelmed by mutated creatures and determined enemies, that wouldnt hesitate to chop your head off and make a campfire decoration out of it.
    The only letdowns are the necessity to run miles and miles at the beginning of the game completing the side missions and collecting goods for selling. The weapons are usually adaptable, but there isnt large range of attachments, only basic ones like SUSAT scope or silencer.
    Graphics are quite low, but you can always mod the game (for example with Complete 2009 mode, changing textures and so on). There are some strange physics sometimes, people get burned in their own campfires, boxes explode when you smash them and so on, but its not so drastic.
    Sometimes the game could get quite frustrating, like running to a massive radiation spot and get killed even with high protection, or get killed by anomaly you didnt see in the dark. But hey, rule #1, dont run when around anomalies, right ) All and all, the game is definitely one of my favs, even through some minor flaws. Plus there is the guy saying "get out of here, stalker" which is probably the best game quote ever, what more do you want.    … Expand
  69. Sfs
    Mar 18, 2019
    8
    Прикольный шутерок, хоррор и рпг. Нормальная графика(на момент 2007), возможность торговли и общение с НПС, хороший ИИ, тайники и артефакты, мутанты, Сидорович и возможность свободно перемещятся по карте. Но минус - в группировках, которые никак почти не продвигаются по зоне и в сукдных модификациях оружия и полное отсутствие таковых на броню.Прикольный шутерок, хоррор и рпг. Нормальная графика(на момент 2007), возможность торговли и общение с НПС, хороший ИИ, тайники и артефакты, мутанты, Сидорович и возможность свободно перемещятся по карте. Но минус - в группировках, которые никак почти не продвигаются по зоне и в сукдных модификациях оружия и полное отсутствие таковых на броню.
  70. kendo
    Feb 17, 2017
    8
    Сталкер Тени Чернобыля это игра моего детства в которую очень интересно было играть. Когда я её полностью прошёл было очень грустно, что больше не поиграть в сей шедевр.
  71. CamyVero
    May 26, 2021
    8
    I've heard great things about this game for a long time, since I was in high school and didn't have a PC to play it on. My classmates and friends told me, buy a new one and play this game, it's awesome. Well, more than 10 years after that I played it and finished it yesterday. Stalker: Shadow of Chernobyl is a very good FPS with open world and RPG elements. It plays perfectly today, theI've heard great things about this game for a long time, since I was in high school and didn't have a PC to play it on. My classmates and friends told me, buy a new one and play this game, it's awesome. Well, more than 10 years after that I played it and finished it yesterday. Stalker: Shadow of Chernobyl is a very good FPS with open world and RPG elements. It plays perfectly today, the game has aged well, but it's not the masterpiece I was told it was. It has major flaws, such as the lack of fast travel to move and explore between the various maps in the game. Exasperating difficulty spikes at times, and bugs, glitches and graphical problems that can ruin your game, that's just the way it is. Despite the overall quality of the game's development, these are flaws that are there. The game is recommendable, certainly, but not a masterpiece.… Expand
  72. Zeratex
    Mar 20, 2019
    8
    A very atmospheric game, Stalker is one of the most atmospheric games i have ever played.

    The moment you go into the game you start to feel the dark serious atmospheric tone it has from its music and soundtracks to its world design, the world is grim and grey, it has also some scary places like the labs, so it has some horror elements into it as well, the ambient sounds is so cool and    A very atmospheric game, Stalker is one of the most atmospheric games i have ever played.

    The moment you go into the game you start to feel the dark serious atmospheric tone it has from its music and soundtracks to its world design, the world is grim and grey, it has also some scary places like the labs, so it has some horror elements into it as well, the ambient sounds is so cool and do great job in immersing you to its world.

    The game is a great game at its core, by core i mean the Ideas thrown into the game like the Zone, the artifacts the factions you join, the NPC A.I (superior to last of us), the world design, the music, the atmosphere, even some of the story elements, I know the game lacks in the story section but its not a story driven game so i can forgive it and i understand the game main focus is immersion and not story.
    So its core as a game is great, but the problem with this is the technical aspect of it, because they didnt have enough budget the game suffers from some technical obstacles than hinders the player enjoyment.
    Those technical problems are:

    1) The Graphics feels like 2004 quality rather than 2007.
    2) Controls (shooting mechanics, and player and npc movement)
    3) Bugs
    4) inconsistent animation

    Otherwise the game is very good, also the game could vastly improve on:
    1) Quests: the quests are very linear and fetch like quests, could improve a lot there.
    2) Role playing elements: could use more stats.
    3) More gameplay options: i felt the gameplay is limited compared to other open world games like Fallout, could use more options and strategies to use during the exploration.

    A must play game for atmospheric game lovers.

    8/10

    Much better than overrated Metro series.    … Expand
  73. rezo_21
    Sep 19, 2021
    8
    ====================IIIIIIIIII GAME SCORE : 80 IIIIIIIIII====================
  74. hvoyagehvoyage
    Feb 6, 2020
    8
    I love it. I love it. I love it. I love it. I love it. I love it. I love it. I love it.
  75. Piruz
    May 7, 2020
    8
    Every time i play this game, i fell like i'm home. This emotion is priceless
  76. R3PL1CANT
    Sep 8, 2020
    8
    One of the most atmospheric post-apocalyptic games I've ever played! Get out of here stalker!
  77. apokalipto
    Aug 9, 2023
    8
    Very good game. I enjoyed playing this game a lot. I strongly recommend this.
  78. Gorbunov2004
    Mar 25, 2021
    8
    Имеет некоторые недостатки, но интересная идея! Зона отчуждения очень хорошая тема для игры много разных абсолютно разных группировок. Также много разных мутантов сюжет у которого 7 концовок из которых только 2 настоящие и игра очень атмосферная для 2007 года! В игре очень скучные и неинтересные дополнительные задания.Имеет некоторые недостатки, но интересная идея! Зона отчуждения очень хорошая тема для игры много разных абсолютно разных группировок. Также много разных мутантов сюжет у которого 7 концовок из которых только 2 настоящие и игра очень атмосферная для 2007 года! В игре очень скучные и неинтересные дополнительные задания.
  79. Relenea
    Jul 11, 2022
    8
    Güçlü atmosfer, ilgi çekici hikaye, silah ve düşman çeşitliliği, korku ve gerilim unsurları barındıran kaliteli bölümler ve genel oyun akışı dahil birçok konuda başarısını ortaya koyan bir oyun.
  80. Antontavrin
    Feb 22, 2022
    8
    Пипенрннининитрртниеппекеппнрннррпеемаккскмеиртрьшььшбшбьшьшшьшллшлшлшьшлшьшь
  81. toseer
    May 30, 2021
    8
    STALKER is not a game about graphics(although it is already clear by the year of release), not about the plot, and not about the gameplay. STALKER is a game about the atmosphere of the Exclusion Zone, which is transmitted by the first game of this trilogy.
  82. Goshan220
    Jul 28, 2021
    8
    Топ игра для своего времени, стрелялка с офигительным сеттингом, очевидно. Да есть куча багов, но и пёс с ними, да сюжет какой-то странный, но не обычный. Эта игра заслуживает быть пройденной не один раз
  83. Asp_klg40
    Aug 27, 2021
    8
    Ну малые, это тупо топ. Одно слово. СТАЛКЕР. Не убавить, не прибавить. Ходишь, бродишь, лутаешь хабар. Кайф. Даже сюжет есть.
  84. AlexiasIZ
    Sep 26, 2021
    8
    ОБХОДИ ЭТУ ШЕЛУПОНЬ! (OBHODI ETU SHELUPON')
    Yeah... This game was the beginning... Beginning of the wonderful game series, which gives us an opportunity to visit the Prypiat, this game gives the true emotions to everyone, who played it. One time you enter the Sidorovich's bunker, you will never forget this character and the whole zone around you... Of cause, there are a lot of problems    ОБХОДИ ЭТУ ШЕЛУПОНЬ! (OBHODI ETU SHELUPON')
    Yeah... This game was the beginning... Beginning of the wonderful game series, which gives us an opportunity to visit the Prypiat, this game gives the true emotions to everyone, who played it. One time you enter the Sidorovich's bunker, you will never forget this character and the whole zone around you... Of cause, there are a lot of problems (optimization, problematic aiming because of the models of the weapon, etc.) But... the atmosphere beats all the problems... At least, for me :)    … Expand
  85. RomanRiabusha
    Aug 3, 2022
    8
    Как на своё время игра шедевр, сейчас не топ.
    Жалко ток что игру начали бомбить русские... Почему-то? не рил почему к чему это ваше "Игры вне политики" или это тип из-за зборов на помощь тем кто пострадал от Войны? Вау как политично
    А если про то что в сталкере сч не будет ру озвучки то... как бы... её не будет в сталкере сч а не в этом тип льмао, вы не туда воюете. Ну и вообще русские    Как на своё время игра шедевр, сейчас не топ.
    Жалко ток что игру начали бомбить русские... Почему-то? не рил почему к чему это ваше "Игры вне политики" или это тип из-за зборов на помощь тем кто пострадал от Войны? Вау как политично
    А если про то что в сталкере сч не будет ру озвучки то... как бы... её не будет в сталкере сч а не в этом тип льмао, вы не туда воюете.
    Ну и вообще русские чё вы всегда так ноете когда в играх нет ру перевода? тип я украинец и игр с Украинским переводом я могу по пальцам посчитать(сабнатика, майн, сталкеры, метро 2033 и пару онлайновых)    … Expand
  86. LeviAkerman
    Mar 19, 2022
    8
    The interface is wonderful. You have so much information immediately available to you. Google Maps always has a minimap in the lower left corner, which gives you a good overview of the area. Getting information about people gives you a clear, clear window. Hacking offers a menu with easily recognizable icons, so you always know what your button presses will do.
  87. flwixs
    Apr 30, 2022
    8
    Лучшая часть серии по атмосфере и целостности самой игры. Сюжет есть, геймплей есть, хоть и устаревший уже. Атмосфера тащит по сути всю игру и скрашивает все баги и прочие проблемы у игры, квесты и прочее тоже нет смысла о них говорить, часть вообще багается либо ломается при любом удобном случаи. К прохождению точно советую, не смотря на все очевидные минусы.Лучшая часть серии по атмосфере и целостности самой игры. Сюжет есть, геймплей есть, хоть и устаревший уже. Атмосфера тащит по сути всю игру и скрашивает все баги и прочие проблемы у игры, квесты и прочее тоже нет смысла о них говорить, часть вообще багается либо ломается при любом удобном случаи. К прохождению точно советую, не смотря на все очевидные минусы.
  88. eilhart
    Apr 21, 2022
    8
    Atmosphere so great you could cut it up, living breathing world where you don't need to be present for things to be happening around it. This alone is what makes this flawed masterpiece so memorable and you will find yourself coming back to this gem over and over years after your first playthrough.
  89. AliceGross
    May 6, 2022
    8
    Харашо Харашо Харашо Харашо Харашо Харашо Харашо Харашо Харашо Харашо Харашо
  90. ATOM8980
    Sep 19, 2022
    8
    Игра очень хорошаяя графика оружие персонажи всё это очень хорошо но баги это отдельная история волк в костре,невидемые трупы но они не сильно мешают
  91. Prsmrti
    Mar 23, 2023
    8
    Absolutely deserved 8 for such a unique atmosphere, and filling the game world with various items and tasks mixed up with the story missions. From what run all over the map in search of new artifacts and opportunities to earn extra money is not boring. The variability of endings by the original as well as impressive.
    Of the minuses only not all of the promised mechanics, the world is not    Absolutely deserved 8 for such a unique atmosphere, and filling the game world with various items and tasks mixed up with the story missions. From what run all over the map in search of new artifacts and opportunities to earn extra money is not boring. The variability of endings by the original as well as impressive.
    Of the minuses only not all of the promised mechanics, the world is not as lively as we would like to, but it doesn't make the game much worse, yet the atmosphere is the main part of the game.    … Expand
  92. Magical_Viktor
    Apr 30, 2023
    8
    Существуют просто Зло и Большое Зло, а за ними обоими в тени прячется Очень Большое Зло. Очень Большое Зло, Геральт, это такое, которого ты и представить себе не можешь, даже если думаешь, будто уже ничто не в состоянии тебя удивить. И знаешь, Геральт, порой бывает так, что Очень Большое Зло схватит тебя за горло и скажет: «Выбирай, братец, либо я, либо то, которое чуточку поменьше»Существуют просто Зло и Большое Зло, а за ними обоими в тени прячется Очень Большое Зло. Очень Большое Зло, Геральт, это такое, которого ты и представить себе не можешь, даже если думаешь, будто уже ничто не в состоянии тебя удивить. И знаешь, Геральт, порой бывает так, что Очень Большое Зло схватит тебя за горло и скажет: «Выбирай, братец, либо я, либо то, которое чуточку поменьше»
  93. JohnAnonymous
    Apr 10, 2007
    7
    As soon as they iron out all the bugs, the game will be a classic. Currently I have to exit and launch the game again to get the PDA to update the mission status. The fact that the enemies keep reappearing out of thin air is extremely annoying. This must be switched off. And, guys, since you equipped the NPC with guitars, get them a decent repertoire of Russian tourist songs (hint: Visbor As soon as they iron out all the bugs, the game will be a classic. Currently I have to exit and launch the game again to get the PDA to update the mission status. The fact that the enemies keep reappearing out of thin air is extremely annoying. This must be switched off. And, guys, since you equipped the NPC with guitars, get them a decent repertoire of Russian tourist songs (hint: Visbor is out of copyright).… Expand
  94. BradG.
    Mar 28, 2007
    7
    I'm really enjoying this game, but not for the same reasons I've been looking forward to it for the past few years. The game has a lot more in common with Deus Ex than it does with Oblivion. You do have a certain level of freedom to explore but the world is quite small overall. Its broken up into somewhat linear maps and the side quests are a lot like those found in Freelancer, I'm really enjoying this game, but not for the same reasons I've been looking forward to it for the past few years. The game has a lot more in common with Deus Ex than it does with Oblivion. You do have a certain level of freedom to explore but the world is quite small overall. Its broken up into somewhat linear maps and the side quests are a lot like those found in Freelancer, standard "shoot him" or "collect that" fare. Still, the single player campaign is quite good. The human enemies are extremely smart and always surprise me with their capacity to flank, hide, and cover one another. The game's most promoted feature, the so called "A-Life", seems to be there in full effect but almost never has enough room to run around. Packs of wild dogs (among other things) move around eating things, running when outnumbered or scared, and working as a team, but only three or four of the games areas feature these elements and most can be run across in a couple of minutes. I was also disappointed to see the more innovated enemies like the bloodsuckers and psychics almost completely constricted to the main quest. You'll rarely run into any interesting enemies until you reach the last few areas. The Zone's anomalies are also hit and miss. They range from nothing more than boring, glorified minefields in the open areas to well integrated traps and visual effects in some of the interiors. Radiation has some cool implementations like radiated, burned out vehicle hulks on some maps but it is often simply used to mark the edge of someplace you can't go yet. The artifacts are interesting, though they're really nothing more than stats boosters randomly strewn across the landscape. The factional elements are also woefully underdeveloped and don't come close to what you'll find in other free-form games. In the end, you're investing in a standard FPS with a great sense of style, gripping atmosphere, and solid gameplay. Sadly, for any of us who frequented the game's original website (replaced a few months ago), this isn't quite the game we expected. No vehicles, no massive world to sink into, and practically nothing interesting to do off the beaten path of the main quest. Everything unique or outstanding gets showcased in the plot missions which can sadly be breezed through in under 20 hours.… Expand
  95. XNelson
    Jun 2, 2007
    7
    It ends so suddenly, nice weapons, nice sounds, a good game.
  96. JohnH.
    Dec 27, 2007
    7
    The game is quest based rather than linear. You pick up quests, loot, trade and upgrade you gear much like a RPG. You move freely around the lands and you can explore on your own loading only at level borders. Some quests will take you to underground bunkers or houses and here the game looks more like a classic FPS. The AI's are fairly good, they take cover behind corners and aim The game is quest based rather than linear. You pick up quests, loot, trade and upgrade you gear much like a RPG. You move freely around the lands and you can explore on your own loading only at level borders. Some quests will take you to underground bunkers or houses and here the game looks more like a classic FPS. The AI's are fairly good, they take cover behind corners and aim well. The atmosphere of the game is good and scary. I would picture it as a Mad Max scenario in a radio active Ukraine with unknown mutant horrors lurking. However, it's not a realistic shooter as some others suggested. For realism I would play OFP, ArmA or the more linear Red Orchestra. What bothers me with the shooting is that it almost takes a full clip of 30 rounds to kill one enemy using a fair AK. The one handed guns are useless for anything but critters, you need to get very close and put a few rounds in between the eyes for any effect. I would rather use a real life slingshoot or a stick and expect better results than that. Perhaps weapons and ammo will get better later on. The grenades are good and at this point it's my only efficient weapon to down anything quick. The game engine have some major flaws. I experience crashes, even blue screens while playing. Initially I couldn't exit to desktop without a blue screen and system reboot. I removed all sound hardware acceleration, EAX and now it's better but I still have issues with random blue screens crashes in nVidia DLL's. If you want to play this game you better search the community FAQ's on how to minimize crashes and don't forget to quicksave often. The game is mercyless, death or a system crash comes fast. Despite the major flaws I really enjoy S.T.A.L.K.E.R.… Expand
  97. RJ
    Jul 21, 2007
    7
    This game is definitely above average, but not spectacular. Graphics are decent, sound is pretty good, and the AI is actually challenging on harder difficulty levels. The environment is just awesome! Now for the cons: Missions keep replaying (I'm guessing this is to keep your inventory up), weapons actually jam (I hate that), and the way characters mouths move when they talk.... This game is definitely above average, but not spectacular. Graphics are decent, sound is pretty good, and the AI is actually challenging on harder difficulty levels. The environment is just awesome! Now for the cons: Missions keep replaying (I'm guessing this is to keep your inventory up), weapons actually jam (I hate that), and the way characters mouths move when they talk.... their jaws only move up and down, they look like a robot talking. Other than that, great game!… Expand
  98. JasonL.
    Mar 29, 2007
    7
    I couldn't have said it better than Brad G. Although I will say that the atmosphere of the game is second to none. For a background story to this game (or the closest you will get) read roadside picnic. Google it. It's a free pdf short story, detailing among other things, why you have an infinite bunch of bolts to throw around. (Silly me, I thought it was to distract the enemies).
  99. ave
    Oct 20, 2015
    7
    I've discovered S.T.A.L.K.E.R. years after its release, and it took quite a time to figure out how to play it properly.

    I won't mention the almost permanent "dying" due to gunshots, radiations, and various anomalies - that's part of the experience : wandering inside the Zone, a perimeter around the nuclear plant of Tchernobyl, full of mutants, factions and hazards. So S.T.A.L.K.E.R. is    I've discovered S.T.A.L.K.E.R. years after its release, and it took quite a time to figure out how to play it properly.

    I won't mention the almost permanent "dying" due to gunshots, radiations, and various anomalies - that's part of the experience : wandering inside the Zone, a perimeter around the nuclear plant of Tchernobyl, full of mutants, factions and hazards. So S.T.A.L.K.E.R. is a "quicksave/quickload" game in old-school fashion (even in easy mode).

    I liked the design of the wasted lands, and the warring factions, but not loved it. Trying to find your way to Strelok isn't picnic.

    So far, I've understood that the main strategy is to :
    - find a serie of guns (pistols, machineguns, rifles, shotguns...) for which you can gather enough ammo ; and upgrade the most efficient ones
    - always keep a nice amount of bandages (bleeding), syringes (radioactivity), medikit (heal) and food (eat) otherwise
    - gather artefacts to keep the best ones in your belt and resell the other ones. The best I've found (for me) were the ones reducing radioactivity & bleeding ; and boosting endurance.
    - never pack more than 50 kg of stuff otherwise you'll lose stamina too quickly (because you'll have to go back and forth alot of time in this game - no teleport).

    The game lacks some clear information about what is important to play properly, you're basically left alone. But since it takes about 30 min / 1h to die stupidly, it takes time to figure out the whole thing.

    Another dissapointing aspect of the game is the dialog window and the inventory window, two modes not that exciting. Plus, the game still run while you use your inventory, so sometimes you die without knowing why.

    Despite these negatives elements (and the fact I wasn't able to go farther than a "locked" checkpoint), the first instalment of the serie was quite engaging and pleasing in its punishing ways ;)    … Expand
  100. DontBeNasty
    Oct 7, 2017
    7
    certainly not a game for everyone. its pacing is meant to be slow, and the game wont take your hand for a pleasant walk in the park.

    It throws you into the fray, Pripyats exclusion zone, where mutant monsters and physics defying anomalies ravage the land. You are expected to survive with limited resources that are already pretty scarce in the world. In harder difficulties the game    certainly not a game for everyone. its pacing is meant to be slow, and the game wont take your hand for a pleasant walk in the park.

    It throws you into the fray, Pripyats exclusion zone, where mutant monsters and physics defying anomalies ravage the land. You are expected to survive with limited resources that are already pretty scarce in the world.

    In harder difficulties the game adds several notes of realism and is only for the most dedicated and hardcore players, although its nowhere near the realism of games such as ARMA. the interface is easy to understand and to use.

    The AI might lean on the silly side, as you may notice some enemies are doing the same moves again and again while they fight you, still though they are nothing sort of easy and you can die pretty easily in stalker.

    Techwise the graphics are fair. they are particularly good underground as you can see the shadow effects from light sources, however there are several flaws on the graphics that make it seem older than the time it came out, like the surface ground and flora seems old with the textures it uses, still the graphics make up for incredible atmosphere, so does the sound with very convincing wild life sound, underground effects that will make your blood chill, and gun sounds

    The plot is somewhat average and the voice acting is fair, although listening to someone talk russian in one instance and perfect english the other feels kind of awkward.

    In closing this game IS NOT FOR PUSHOVERS. it can be tricky and difficult and it will certainly test your patience both with difficulty and pace.    … 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.
    Read full review
  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.
    Read full review
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