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. EricR.
    Sep 6, 2007
    10
    This is probably one of the most amazing and extreme first person shooters i have ever played, yes it has its bugs and coding issues but once you patch the game and get everything up to speed, the game had me playing for hours and hours. so many different things and possibilitys you can explore and proceed in many different ways. Just has me playing and playing just because of the several This is probably one of the most amazing and extreme first person shooters i have ever played, yes it has its bugs and coding issues but once you patch the game and get everything up to speed, the game had me playing for hours and hours. so many different things and possibilitys you can explore and proceed in many different ways. Just has me playing and playing just because of the several ways you can play through it, and many different and interesting endings and gameplay route within it. Its sort of like Deus ex and BioShock , so if your a fan of the Dues ex or BioShock i highly recommend this game. With the types of game play thats implemented in this game you'll just be blown away by the story and and environmental surrounding of this hostile world of Chernobyl!… Expand
  2. AnonymousMC
    Sep 8, 2007
    10
    If your system can run this game with max settings, then you have to get this game. It is the best and most immersive PC game I have ever played, the level of detail in the graphics is nothing short of amazing, especially the landscapes. This game is fantastic and you have to do it justice by putting it on a worth PC. No problems with bugs etc... just make sure you patch it to versionIf your system can run this game with max settings, then you have to get this game. It is the best and most immersive PC game I have ever played, the level of detail in the graphics is nothing short of amazing, especially the landscapes. This game is fantastic and you have to do it justice by putting it on a worth PC. No problems with bugs etc... just make sure you patch it to version 1.0004. 10/10.… Expand
  3. NickN
    Jan 2, 2010
    10
    This is a stunning game. I've been playing Stalker for two years and still can't find any game which would deliver a similar experience in the atmosphere. Although, these were the various mods (Russian version of the game) that enriched the game immensely, I got hooked on the original game and still can't shake off its charm.
  4. MarkedOne
    Mar 3, 2007
    10
    This game is very impressive and atmospheric. AI behaves in very intelligent way - think CoD2 where soldiers after battle sit around the fire, playing guitar, telling jokes and drinking vodka. You can talk to every stalker, ask him about rumors, try to trade or ask for a quest. Gameplay is about doing quests, roaming around the Chernobyl zone, avoiding deadly "anomalies" and radiactive This game is very impressive and atmospheric. AI behaves in very intelligent way - think CoD2 where soldiers after battle sit around the fire, playing guitar, telling jokes and drinking vodka. You can talk to every stalker, ask him about rumors, try to trade or ask for a quest. Gameplay is about doing quests, roaming around the Chernobyl zone, avoiding deadly "anomalies" and radiactive area and battling with bandits, military, mutants and aggressive wildlife. Zone represent area around Chernobyl with forests, plains, city of Pripyat, nuclear plant itself, small willages, roads and soviet Ukraine cars and trains wrecks. The game is mostly FPS but RPG elements are very strong. You have an inventory and doll for different types of gear. Every weapon have it's stats and durability. Every character have a name, inventory and an opinion about you. There is a player reputation system. If you help a dying stalker with a medikit he will become your friend. If you come close to neutral stalkers with weapon drawn they will warn you and if you don't listen, they will open fire and become hostile. You can use zone artifacts to improve your stats. Inventory is limited to weight you can carry. There are many quests in game - main quest line and side quests, many of them are time-limited. Models and textures are a bit outdated but light and shadows are very impressive. System requirements are somewhat high but it's not a big problem. I'd say they are close to F.E.A.R. requirements - slightly higher though. You can also use lower graphics settings on old video cards. After two days of gameplay I experienced a few minor AI and graphics glitches and only one CTD. Game is pretty stable and it lets you use Alt+Tab with no problems. Summary - if you want to imagine what is S.T.A.L.K.E.R. looks like... it's like F.E.A.R. meets Oblivion in living world of very realistic Chernobyl area. P.S. There IS eating and anti-radiation vodka drinkin in game. If character don't eat very long it will starve to death.… Expand
  5. ChandraP.
    Jun 19, 2007
    10
    It's a great game with with greatest gunfights ever.
  6. Korin
    Aug 9, 2007
    10
    Excessive respawn is addressed in patch 1.0003. Don't be.....
  7. JustinF.
    Feb 8, 2008
    10
    S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Shadow of Chernobyl is a wonderful FPS/RPG. It has stunning graphics (MUST HAVE A BITCHIN' COMPUTER) and the soundtrack is very well composed. NPC's are very helpful, but turn bland if you ask too many questions. Other than small lag spots in certain maps, this game is amazing. Immerse yourself in this post-apocalyptic game and I promise your palms will be S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Shadow of Chernobyl is a wonderful FPS/RPG. It has stunning graphics (MUST HAVE A BITCHIN' COMPUTER) and the soundtrack is very well composed. NPC's are very helpful, but turn bland if you ask too many questions. Other than small lag spots in certain maps, this game is amazing. Immerse yourself in this post-apocalyptic game and I promise your palms will be sweating before you can say Pripyat.… Expand
  8. GAMEDEFENDER
    Sep 7, 2008
    10
    For the love of God, stop comparing this game to Oblivion and FEAR!!!
    FEAR sucked, it only had cheap scares, and Oblivion is only good with a couple thousand mods running at once!!!
    STALKER is based on real life. And it captures that feeling well. If you think that you can't handle STALKER, then maybe you should all just crawl back to your cribs where you belong. As fr me? I give    For the love of God, stop comparing this game to Oblivion and FEAR!!!
    FEAR sucked, it only had cheap scares, and Oblivion is only good with a couple thousand mods running at once!!!
    STALKER is based on real life. And it captures that feeling well. If you think that you can't handle STALKER, then maybe you should all just crawl back to your cribs where you belong.

    As fr me? I give it a 10 just to shove it in these babies' faces. And it deserves the 10, too.    … Expand
  9. LoganM
    Apr 9, 2009
    10
    GREAT!!!!! The only problem with me are a few bugs in the quests but this is becuse they wanted it to be almsot fully in english. If some of the characters speeches we still in russian there would be no bugs. The one phrase they left in russian is to me important. when the guy says but down ur gun its in Russian!!!! good thing I already knew waht it mean.
  10. AnonymousMC
    Aug 5, 2009
    10
    Yes it does have outdated graphics by todays standards and yes it has its bugs. But this is one of the most immersive and breathtaking game worlds I have ever played in: The detail payed to background and information about the zone, to the dark, dank labs which are sure to give the most hardened gamer a jittery trigger finger. I'm currently playing through it for a third time! And itYes it does have outdated graphics by todays standards and yes it has its bugs. But this is one of the most immersive and breathtaking game worlds I have ever played in: The detail payed to background and information about the zone, to the dark, dank labs which are sure to give the most hardened gamer a jittery trigger finger. I'm currently playing through it for a third time! And it seems to me its gotten even more scary... I would recommend this game to gamers whod dont just rely on graphics but who enjoy a good story and atmospheric games.… Expand
  11. CatalinU
    Jan 13, 2010
    10
    Probably the best FPS in the world :) For me it had a very high degree of re-playability. Finished it over 5 times till now. The game play is very realistic, specially the ballistic system for weapons. Unbelievable multiplayer action!!! Definitely a MUST PLAY game!!!
  12. Bobbys
    Jan 15, 2010
    10
    This is one of the best games i have played in a long time. By the time you are done with it you want more. Combat and story are superb. It is great just to sit around a campfire listening to the guitar in a post apocalyptic environment.. You never want to come back. Great job GSC
  13. ZachK.
    Oct 4, 2007
    10
    This game is great! The game is huge and lots of various armours and weapons.
  14. KylebK.
    Mar 23, 2007
    10
    This is a great game and a huge persistent world with realtime weather and day change. There are awesome enemies it just takes a while to progress. If you like free roaming exploration and a storyline that isn't just fed to you with a kickass atmosphere get this game. you will get lost in it. Think HL2 meets Fallout 2 meets F.E.A.R. meets Oblivion, with better graphics. better have This is a great game and a huge persistent world with realtime weather and day change. There are awesome enemies it just takes a while to progress. If you like free roaming exploration and a storyline that isn't just fed to you with a kickass atmosphere get this game. you will get lost in it. Think HL2 meets Fallout 2 meets F.E.A.R. meets Oblivion, with better graphics. better have at least a radeon X800 or Geforce 7900 GS with a decent processor though.… Expand
  15. JohnD.
    Mar 30, 2007
    10
    You know what? I didn't hope a lot for this title..for me this is just another shooter when it was hype frequently 5 years ago...but when I first got my hand into it..it just came into life..what I mean is it's like you're really a stalker.. you have a almost dark life.. your best friend would be your flashlight and gun.. you see people from far.. and when you see the You know what? I didn't hope a lot for this title..for me this is just another shooter when it was hype frequently 5 years ago...but when I first got my hand into it..it just came into life..what I mean is it's like you're really a stalker.. you have a almost dark life.. your best friend would be your flashlight and gun.. you see people from far.. and when you see the world.. it was like so beautiful for a nuclear plant..everything was so beautiful..a world that was torn apart..it's like seeing FALLOUT game again with the first person view.. and it was so scary yet interesting to travel alone in the night.. when you spot another stalker and you're in dark..just like stalker..you always want to see what he do..and everything..while you remain in dark is somewhat.. i feel lack of some first person shooter nowaday.. it is true that game like FEAR will chill you out to the bone but FEAR lack something call freedom.. I mean you can watch your enemy from a hidden spot and then think what to do..and then take out one by one or distract them is somewhat real.. to tell you in simple way,, I don't even hope something from this game..yet I ended founding something that have equality from the FALLOUT game..not the gameplay..not the story or anything else but the mood and atmosphere ..… Expand
  16. Jan
    Apr 13, 2007
    10
    Well since I wasn't really hyped before I played this game i was able to enjoy it a lot. For me this looks like an unusual big and much more exiting project than most other games. The few bugs will be fixed soon, maybe an addon in sight? I don't know but could immage one. The graphics are already pretty nice and will get a real boost with the next pc. Sound and Music create a Well since I wasn't really hyped before I played this game i was able to enjoy it a lot. For me this looks like an unusual big and much more exiting project than most other games. The few bugs will be fixed soon, maybe an addon in sight? I don't know but could immage one. The graphics are already pretty nice and will get a real boost with the next pc. Sound and Music create a good atmosphere. Generally this game just feels "true" and believable and creates a nice atmosphere. Well already had a lot of fun with this game and will have a lot more in future i guess. So 10/10… Expand
  17. Denys
    Mar 6, 2008
    10
    I'm proud of this game! I'm proud to be Ukrainian as the creators of Stalker are! Remarkable game, worth the story to be continued....
  18. DanilS.
    May 9, 2008
    10
    The best shooter ever.
  19. CorporalAmez
    Jun 1, 2008
    10
    The most atmospheric games I have ever laid my eyes on, is the basic way to put it. You never expect anything to happen more than twice when playing the game. Very scary at times as well, to make it scarier try to play the game with the brightness toned down as if night time. The only minor problem for me was the lack of some realism, such as shooting point blank at a target in the headThe most atmospheric games I have ever laid my eyes on, is the basic way to put it. You never expect anything to happen more than twice when playing the game. Very scary at times as well, to make it scarier try to play the game with the brightness toned down as if night time. The only minor problem for me was the lack of some realism, such as shooting point blank at a target in the head with the obokan it misses. Also it takes a unfair number of shots to kill a certain monster or person. Don't get me wrong I really loved this game, and I can't wait to buy Clear Sky! This is a true MYST BUY game! For 20 bucks? This is more bang for the buck without sacrificing the game play at all!… Expand
  20. DaveR
    Jul 10, 2008
    10
    This is a great game in my opinion. Love the atmosphere and the gameplay is extremely addictive. My only gripes are that the ending is lame and there should be more expansive levels. Better bonuses to the exo-suits would be a good idea too. I really hope they make a sequel for this.
  21. BenHewitt
    Aug 20, 2008
    10
    This game gave me heavy deja vu of when i was young and playing doom2, scared sh1tless because i was being hunted by grunting pink demons. I have not played a game in a long time that really rattles the nerves by atmosphere and noises alone. This is a great game.
  22. Mat
    Feb 11, 2009
    10
    I loved this game possibly rhe best shooter you can get from Morristons at 5.00 quid .Every single detail about Chernobyl is immense like how they captured the Pripyat town exact!.I dont have much to say except at any price this game is worth it and is possibly the best first person shooter i have ever played.
  23. oddA
    Aug 10, 2009
    10
    This game is simply beautyful. Not the colors and stuff, but the gameplay! The difficulty of this game is mixed with the little feeling that you CAN win! The weapons are realistic and awesome! This is one of the games where EVERY single enemy has the ability to kill you with a single headshot, so you wont be left unchallenged. If you are/want to become a great gamer, try this game. If you This game is simply beautyful. Not the colors and stuff, but the gameplay! The difficulty of this game is mixed with the little feeling that you CAN win! The weapons are realistic and awesome! This is one of the games where EVERY single enemy has the ability to kill you with a single headshot, so you wont be left unchallenged. If you are/want to become a great gamer, try this game. If you succeed you can call yourself a real gamer. But bevare, enemies will try to flank you, sometimes you must fight a whole army (10-20 people) and you will die ALOT. But you should try it out, it's pretty damn fun. The 6th best FPS i have played. (Bioshock, System shock, SS2, Doom and Deus Ex are higher if you wondered).… Expand
  24. WesM
    Jan 14, 2010
    10
    S.T.A.L.K.E.R. is definitely not a game for everybody. It can be brutally difficult, even on the normal setting. It doesn't hold your hand or cut you a break at the beginning--there's not much of a tutorial, early weapons are inaccurate and weak, and you'll die a lot. But that's part of the charm of it all. It's a rough world out there, and it's not meant to S.T.A.L.K.E.R. is definitely not a game for everybody. It can be brutally difficult, even on the normal setting. It doesn't hold your hand or cut you a break at the beginning--there's not much of a tutorial, early weapons are inaccurate and weak, and you'll die a lot. But that's part of the charm of it all. It's a rough world out there, and it's not meant to be easy to survive. Whereas games like Fallout 3 make the post-apocalyptic world seem almost harmless, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. brings out what you'd expect it to be like. You're no super-human, you're a regular person, a bullet to the head will kill you just like it'll kill anyone else, and those people will try to kill you in return just to survive.… Expand
  25. NickM.
    Nov 12, 2007
    10
    My favorite game. It is intense and interesting wherever you go, what ever you do. im not even a big PC gamer, but holy crap. now i would not tell everyone to go buy the game, as i can see how some may not like it. Its smaller area then promised, its bugs and flaws, plus a lack of polish are annoying. but to most people, the non linear game play, great AI, and the realism put into every My favorite game. It is intense and interesting wherever you go, what ever you do. im not even a big PC gamer, but holy crap. now i would not tell everyone to go buy the game, as i can see how some may not like it. Its smaller area then promised, its bugs and flaws, plus a lack of polish are annoying. but to most people, the non linear game play, great AI, and the realism put into every creature will soon make you forget its flaws. there is always something to do, main storyline, side missions, arena, or even just raid any old bandit camp, everything is awsome.… Expand
  26. AlexGenius
    Dec 20, 2007
    10
    ?? - ??????, ????????? ? ?? ???? ???, ??? ?? ????????? ?????????? ????????? ???????! ??????????? ???????? ??????? ? ????? ????? ?????????? ?????????-??????, ??????? (??????? ?????? ?? ????, ?? ???????? ????? ??????? ?? (!) - ?????????, ????? ??????,) ???????, ??? ???? ??? - ??????? ????, ????????, ? ???? ???????, ???? ????????? ????? ?? ? ??????, ? ??? ??? ?? ??????? ????????? ?????????? - ??????, ????????? ? ?? ???? ???, ??? ?? ????????? ?????????? ????????? ???????! ??????????? ???????? ??????? ? ????? ????? ?????????? ?????????-??????, ??????? (??????? ?????? ?? ????, ?? ???????? ????? ??????? ?? (!) - ?????????, ????? ??????,) ???????, ??? ???? ??? - ??????? ????, ????????, ? ???? ???????, ???? ????????? ????? ?? ? ??????, ? ??? ??? ?? ??????? ????????? ???????? ??????? ?? gameplay! ??? ? ???????, ?????(deer) ?? - mister T and nothing more...
    ? ????, ??? ?? ??????? ????????, ??????? ?????? ??????? ?? ?????? ?? ??? ??????? ???????, ??????? ??? ?????? ????? ???????(, ?? ????????????) - 8,5    … Expand
  27. KyleB.
    Mar 23, 2007
    10
    After playing it a good 8+ hours now I have to say I'm hugely satisfied. The great initial concept of the game is created with fun and interesting game play. The missions are fun quests and the level design is almost too good to be true. On the easiest settings I'm frequently loved and subjected to lengthy loads of fun. I've encountered many compelling story After playing it a good 8+ hours now I have to say I'm hugely satisfied. The great initial concept of the game is created with fun and interesting game play. The missions are fun quests and the level design is almost too good to be true. On the easiest settings I'm frequently loved and subjected to lengthy loads of fun. I've encountered many compelling story lines--surprisingly the Chernobyl meltdown is hardly even mentioned. The "anomalies" are all just very vast and each one is exciting every time . Little flickering distortions in the air that you have to avoid or take damage. Some are kind of fiery, some kind of windy--you just walk around them automatically after 10 minutes. The quest system is just amazing. I'm constantly informed I just failed a quest that I greatly enjoyed. There's no sense of whether I'm advancing the main storyline or just doing odd jobs. (Starting the game as a character with amnesia doesn't' help). The game this reminds me of more than any is "Postal 2: Share the Pain" Yeah, everybody loved that game too. Big sprawling zones with huge fun times, factions of NPCs that are either enemy or friend depending how you treat them, and endless, very tactical firefights against other paramilitary types. And the thing that's really make me happy is that 99.9% of the enemies so far have been vast and fascinating. I've faced many scary mutants and a bunch of Resident Evil zombie dogs. Every other baddie is a large difference of my character. I don't know what the hell these guys have been working on all these years, but it was worth the wait like I was hoping. Finally, on a even more positive note, STALKER was inspired by the science fiction short story "Roadside Picnic" which I began reading along with playing the game. Ironically I find myself eager to play the $50 game and read the free story simultaneously. It's really cool!… Expand
  28. Ethan
    Mar 25, 2007
    10
    I think this game deserves a 9, but I gave it a ten to balance out Kyleb's double vote of 3. For those of you who have been following the game for years, you will be slightly disappointed. The game involves a lot more standard 1 vs army fps gameplay than I expected, and the Zone isn't as dynamic and alive as I had thought. Every AI does have its own agenda, and the AI is very I think this game deserves a 9, but I gave it a ten to balance out Kyleb's double vote of 3. For those of you who have been following the game for years, you will be slightly disappointed. The game involves a lot more standard 1 vs army fps gameplay than I expected, and the Zone isn't as dynamic and alive as I had thought. Every AI does have its own agenda, and the AI is very good. Unfortunately, the main quests do involve spawned enemies. However, if you've never heard of Stalker before, you have nothing to be sour about. The game does chug a bit, and as of March 23rd it is very hard to find a good server for net play. There are few dedicated servers, and you can expect multiplayer to be too laggy to enjoy. Hopefully this will be fixed soon. All of the other good things to be said about the game can be read elsewhere. I think it was definitely worth my 40 dollars.… Expand
  29. KennethM.
    Mar 26, 2007
    10
    The most immersive atmospheric and terrifying game I have ever played Some minor flaws, a couple of questionable ommisions, but over all, the best fpsrpg ever.
  30. DelvinS.
    Mar 27, 2007
    10
    I've only played a few hours of this. It is moderately hard, so be conservative in just going for the first missions right away. Honestly, this game is the most unnerving game in its realism, you actually almost FEEL you are breathing this sickly radioactive air walking around this devastated and infected area dizzied by blows from enemies. I have to say this is the first game that I I've only played a few hours of this. It is moderately hard, so be conservative in just going for the first missions right away. Honestly, this game is the most unnerving game in its realism, you actually almost FEEL you are breathing this sickly radioactive air walking around this devastated and infected area dizzied by blows from enemies. I have to say this is the first game that I am actually affected by this intensely. It'll probably take JERICHO, but this is one scary experience. There is so much sensory play and creepiness that it takes a special person to appreciate it. Like I said, only a few hours and I'm scared to play it. I love it. The storyline's a bit vague, but hey.. that's what WE have imaginations for. I don't have to know yet. I believe there's probably one way that gives you the best ending. Either way, the realism is beautifully implemented in the organic engine this game uses. You'll notice on repeat missions (which you'll have a few), that the weather's changed or monsters, etc are there. Not as much obvious scripting, it's really mindblowing. I don't mind the press ESC save function. I think the graphics are great even for today. The smoothness helps everything seem living and breathing. All is fairly detailed, it's just the landscape is not 'pretty. I keep getting paranoid to leave camp after dark for what lies out there. I haven't even touched multiplayer yet. More fun. This game rules, BUY IT.… Expand
  31. IanB.
    Jul 21, 2007
    10
    It's a good one for an FPS, the plot was good, aiming was kinda frustrating, because you can't hit the damn enemy if you set it on a much higher difficulty, just don't like the dogs though, yeah i'm new to this one, it's kinda frustrating but it's fun wandering to a kind of environment that S.T.A.L.K.E.R. give, it's fun.. not really for a trigger happy It's a good one for an FPS, the plot was good, aiming was kinda frustrating, because you can't hit the damn enemy if you set it on a much higher difficulty, just don't like the dogs though, yeah i'm new to this one, it's kinda frustrating but it's fun wandering to a kind of environment that S.T.A.L.K.E.R. give, it's fun.. not really for a trigger happy FPS fan, it's strategy, and a little RPG for an FPS.. oh well whatever! it's a good game.… Expand
  32. K.G.
    Aug 9, 2007
    10
    This game is absolutely spectacular. Everything from the gunplay, to the atmosphere, to the story, to the open ended gameplay is top notch. I think the low reviews scores it gets come from people who are probably not skilled enough to play a near tac-shooter. Buggy? Yes but playing through with the 1.003 patch there were no show-stoppers. All in all this is a landmark
  33. KellW.
    Sep 10, 2007
    10
    This game is great, everything about it is perfect. Storyline, shooting, effects everything. Tho i do get the odd scary bit that makes me jump.
  34. AnonymousMC
    Sep 3, 2007
    10
    It may have some technical diffuculties, But I had no trouble immersing myself in this great game. I enjoyed the RPG-ness that didnt come with an XP bar and MANA. Something I havent seen in.. I dont even know how long.
    To Paul: Would you like it if you just went through once and then theyre all dead, Thats it, no more things to kill? I sure as hell wouldn't.
  35. eh
    Feb 13, 2008
    10
    Extremely addictive and with good inner story. Marvelous. Best FPS I've ever played.
  36. AnonymousMC
    Feb 5, 2008
    10
    This game is amazing, the graphics are great, and the X-ray engine is so powerful.
    just to name a few of the realistic traits, bullets are affected by gravity and can even ricochet off surfaces and the aiming is very realistic ie: crosshairs for general aiming, and iron sights for precision shooting
  37. BenC.
    Feb 8, 2008
    10
    Excellent Game. It seems to start out a little slow, but picks up fairly quickly. I really liked the near limitless interactions with the AI players/objects.
  38. PaulL.
    Mar 15, 2008
    10
    I rated this game off of what the game is, and not its performance. The game is different and beyond all else seen out there. Absolutely addicting and one of my favorite games off all time. Highly anticipating the sequel. The only downer is the few flaws still left in the games performance even after all the patches came out, and its a hardship working past them. If they were fixed, this I rated this game off of what the game is, and not its performance. The game is different and beyond all else seen out there. Absolutely addicting and one of my favorite games off all time. Highly anticipating the sequel. The only downer is the few flaws still left in the games performance even after all the patches came out, and its a hardship working past them. If they were fixed, this game would be perfect.… Expand
  39. James
    Apr 29, 2008
    10
    S.T.A.L.K.E.R. is an excellent first person experience. Not only are the graphics top notch, but the story keeps your attention and the environment pulls you in and doesn't let go (lol literally in some places - these are in-game traps within the Zone that you learn to avoid). This game led me on to watch the Russian movie that helped inspire the game and even acquiring the book that S.T.A.L.K.E.R. is an excellent first person experience. Not only are the graphics top notch, but the story keeps your attention and the environment pulls you in and doesn't let go (lol literally in some places - these are in-game traps within the Zone that you learn to avoid). This game led me on to watch the Russian movie that helped inspire the game and even acquiring the book that inspired the movie. The game isn't perfect, but patch 1.005 really helped it to run well. Don't let the RPG aspects keep you away from the game. The game is mostly an action/adventure with some RPG elements, but these elements are not too involving, and the interactions you have with characters are not too deep. I actually wish the RPG elements were a bit more complex, but I'm not complaining... I wish there were more games that were at least half as fun as S.T.A.L.K.E.R. I don't get scared when playing games, but i did get some chuckles as my mouse hand unintentionally jumped as i turned to see men/things come lurching out of the shadows at me. The lighting in this game is fantastic as is the dynamic weather. Oh, after you play it through the first time, download the mod "oblivion lost" and be prepared for some more wonderful time spent in the Zone. The oblivion lost mod is very cool! Have fun, but don't let the Zone consume you!… Expand
  40. reiska
    Apr 3, 2008
    10
    This game was just awesome, just finished playing it. And still I want to play some more.Want to get all the endings.
  41. vespinevespine
    Aug 5, 2008
    10
    Very rarely a game comes out that feels like the developers made it especially just for me, Stalker is one of those games. The aesthetic and atmosphere in this game are spot on 100%. It transcended its technical issues and played like a piece of art not a piece of software. And exactly like art, you either "get it" or you don't, as some of the low scores here prove. Playing andVery rarely a game comes out that feels like the developers made it especially just for me, Stalker is one of those games. The aesthetic and atmosphere in this game are spot on 100%. It transcended its technical issues and played like a piece of art not a piece of software. And exactly like art, you either "get it" or you don't, as some of the low scores here prove. Playing and exploring the Stalker world was interesting and exciting. If that's not your "thing", then fair enough, I can believe people score it low because they "didn't like it"; the game is cold, bleak and gritty, which isn't everyone's cup of tea. Some people prefer tea to be fast and colourful like Halo or UT. I however LOVE my tea cold, bleak and gritty. What I CAN'T believe is people think the graphics are bad? If you think the graphics are bad, I think you need glasses, this game has the best post apocalyptic industrial environments in a game ever, hands down. Yes it needs a very good machine to get the best out of the graphics, but if you are a real gamer, you have a very good machine and it isn't a problem. All in all, I think this game is an absolute stand out in the genre and a benchmark for cold, bleak and gritty. Up there in my opinion with my very favourite games like System Shock (2), Half Life (2) and Deus Ex. I'll admit this isn't a perfect game, I can think of ways to improve it, but for pure enjoyment and aesthetic this game deserves a 9.5 from me, and I'm gonna round up, just because of all the noobs that scored it low for having crap graphics or running poorly on their x486s. I sincerely hope that in the effort to correct the problems of Stalker, they don't listen to the advice of the mainstream and ruin the up coming prequel for us grit lovers… Expand
  42. MaxxA
    Oct 27, 2009
    10
    Its the greatest game franchise I've ever played, and I've been a gamer for way to long now for that to be meaningless. From a game designers perspective though, its an absolutely unmatchable achievement. I'd like to see some big billion dollar game company model the "Zone" when its terribly radioactive. Also, the glitches, if you know the movies story, have some purpose. Its the greatest game franchise I've ever played, and I've been a gamer for way to long now for that to be meaningless. From a game designers perspective though, its an absolutely unmatchable achievement. I'd like to see some big billion dollar game company model the "Zone" when its terribly radioactive. Also, the glitches, if you know the movies story, have some purpose. By glitches I mean everything from anomalies, to crashes. The ballistics system is just amazing. It's probably achieved this better than any other game, in fact, you should buy its sequel just for the hunting rifle.… Expand
  43. PE
    Oct 28, 2009
    10
    This game is stupidly good. It's probably my favorite shooter of all time. The atmosphere is second to none, the AI is great, there are a ton of mods available, and the story is interesting. A much better game than Fallout 3.
  44. SeanH
    Oct 29, 2009
    10
    Stalker is a redefining title. It leaves no excuse for any other title to be cheap. Stalker combines the gameplay elements of an RPG with those of an FPS. Character developement is totally capturing and the team has done a fantastic job of keeping the player immersed in the terror that is Chernobyl. Positively one of my all time favorites, I hope the industry learns a thing or two from Stalker is a redefining title. It leaves no excuse for any other title to be cheap. Stalker combines the gameplay elements of an RPG with those of an FPS. Character developement is totally capturing and the team has done a fantastic job of keeping the player immersed in the terror that is Chernobyl. Positively one of my all time favorites, I hope the industry learns a thing or two from this title.… Expand
  45. QuinnH-L
    Dec 9, 2009
    10
    One of the best games I've ever played. The combat is fun and the story and setting are really unique.
  46. DavidK
    Feb 10, 2009
    10
    One of the most underrated games in the past give years. This game is much better than the critics make it out to be. As it was with the F.E.A.R. series. Though it has its Russian origins, I have to say this is probably the best first person shooter to come along in a long time. It is a thinking persons fps and very close to what I would imagine is real life. Though it has a sluggish One of the most underrated games in the past give years. This game is much better than the critics make it out to be. As it was with the F.E.A.R. series. Though it has its Russian origins, I have to say this is probably the best first person shooter to come along in a long time. It is a thinking persons fps and very close to what I would imagine is real life. Though it has a sluggish start hang in there with it and I am sure you will agree. Comes close to a perfect game. Very, very underrated.… Expand
  47. JimR
    Mar 3, 2009
    10
    Absolutely the most immersive and impressive game concept ever to make it out of development hell. Bugs and all- any points this game might lose due to broken mission scripts or sketchy translation are absolutely annihilated by the sheer scope and vision of GSC Gameworld. A flawed masterpiece. And GSC are treating this game as such; very seldom have I seen a developer release so much Absolutely the most immersive and impressive game concept ever to make it out of development hell. Bugs and all- any points this game might lose due to broken mission scripts or sketchy translation are absolutely annihilated by the sheer scope and vision of GSC Gameworld. A flawed masterpiece. And GSC are treating this game as such; very seldom have I seen a developer release so much source material to the modding community- if anything, I'd say those guys love this game more than it's most fervent fans. I would gladly pay full retail tenfold on any game which had so much love put into it. By turns it is touching, exhilarating, petrifyingly scary and sometimes unintentionally amusing. The closest I've felt to full scale immersion since playing commando around a WW2 era bomb shelter when I was a child, or breaking into 'the old haunted house' near where I lived. As you might have guessed, I cannot recommend this game strongly enough. Buy it! if you don't like it, wait a month and try it again. Keep trying until it hits you; when it does it'll be worth all your time and effort- and the inevitable ensuing week without sleep.. PS: the difficulty curve favours the cautious, and those who kneel to fire :)… Expand
  48. silviu
    Nov 13, 2007
    10
    I simply can't state enough how great this game is. I know, it has many flaws (although all those problems were greatly reduced with the latest 1.0004 patch), maybe it has some gameplay problems, but all in all it's for sure one of the best. You can't fully understand what I mean unless you start playing it. me, personally, after I start it, I can't stop unless I I simply can't state enough how great this game is. I know, it has many flaws (although all those problems were greatly reduced with the latest 1.0004 patch), maybe it has some gameplay problems, but all in all it's for sure one of the best. You can't fully understand what I mean unless you start playing it. me, personally, after I start it, I can't stop unless I finish it, that great this game is. on a scale from 1 to 10, this game deserves 11, if you know what I mean.… Expand
  49. ThomasL.
    Dec 31, 2007
    10
    Great game, explained most things to you, if you went to the right area. First thing I found out about was using my bolts to find the area the anomalies covered.. Awesome graphics, and wonderful gameplay. If you have played something like half-life, wouldnt you know that you hit buttons to get guns? Well, I expected to get a gun when I got my knife, but thats just me. He couldnt expect me Great game, explained most things to you, if you went to the right area. First thing I found out about was using my bolts to find the area the anomalies covered.. Awesome graphics, and wonderful gameplay. If you have played something like half-life, wouldnt you know that you hit buttons to get guns? Well, I expected to get a gun when I got my knife, but thats just me. He couldnt expect me to kill 7 or 8 guys with a knife.… Expand
  50. ArikR.
    Mar 12, 2008
    10
    The game is gooood! Anyone who likes not just to go straight and shoot anything that moves should try it (at least once:). And yeah, about the graphics design. I was born in Ukraine like 50 miles from the place you play the game in, so i know how it looks in real life (approximately, thanks God). I can assure you that every smallest detail, every tree, every car or what's written on The game is gooood! Anyone who likes not just to go straight and shoot anything that moves should try it (at least once:). And yeah, about the graphics design. I was born in Ukraine like 50 miles from the place you play the game in, so i know how it looks in real life (approximately, thanks God). I can assure you that every smallest detail, every tree, every car or what's written on damn helicopter is 100% copied from real life (in best meaning of word 'copied'). So even if you'd like to go to some ex-soviet country, play the game just to see how possibly your trip would look like.) Pretty real.… Expand
  51. GameBoy
    Nov 9, 2009
    10
    Simply the best game ever created. Bought this 2 years ago and I'm still playing it now with the various mods available - all offline. Now THAT'S good value for money. If you haven't played it, then the best mod to get is STALKER Complete 2009, which fixes all strange bugs, updates the ballistics, and makes the graphics prettier - but most importantly does not change the Simply the best game ever created. Bought this 2 years ago and I'm still playing it now with the various mods available - all offline. Now THAT'S good value for money. If you haven't played it, then the best mod to get is STALKER Complete 2009, which fixes all strange bugs, updates the ballistics, and makes the graphics prettier - but most importantly does not change the storyline. The ONLY thing it does change is that it allows free play at the end of the game. OK, I'll stop going off on a tangent and get back to the crux of the matter - this game is not for the faint hearted. You have to stick with this game, it starts off hard - and the first map is, how shall I say - a bit bland. BUT, it gets sooo much better as you progress, think of the first map as a training ground. Later on you'll have literally heart attack inducing tension in further maps. I can't say enough good things about this game - I LOVE IT (how sad eh?!) Just please buy it, install STALKER Complete 2009 mod, stick it out for the first map, then trust me, you'll be hooked.… Expand
  52. danm
    May 21, 2009
    10
    One of the best video game experiences i have EVER had. PERIOD. This game is so incredibly visceral and engaging. I can get lost in this world forever. Not only is the game play completely realistic, but it is incredibly well designed for normal gaming pleasures, such as upgrades. Words cannot express the coolness of finding a sweet ass gun in the middle of nowhere. Definitely awesome.
  53. JoeT.
    Nov 19, 2007
    10
    I can understand why a lot of people criticize S.T.A.L.K.E.R.. Its learning curve is extremely steep and it has scripting issues that show up as bugs in 1 of 4 side quests. In this day of console game popularity I can understand many players
  54. MauricioP
    Nov 11, 2009
    10
    This is by far one of the best games I ever played. It grows on you very quickly and it is addictive. The ending changes depending on the role you chose to play during the game. It is action packed and it gets your adrenalin pumping. It will stretch your nerves and if you're not strong enough, it may just shatter your nerves! Oh yea! This game is a masterpiece and it is worth every This is by far one of the best games I ever played. It grows on you very quickly and it is addictive. The ending changes depending on the role you chose to play during the game. It is action packed and it gets your adrenalin pumping. It will stretch your nerves and if you're not strong enough, it may just shatter your nerves! Oh yea! This game is a masterpiece and it is worth every penny and every minute of your time you put on it. Don't let yourself be fooled by people who criticize "flaws" in the game (that's why every game, program and software has version control, patch releases, and updates). The critic from "Total Video Games" must have gotten his job by accident or something like that, has no clue whatsoever what a true game is all about. "Johnny D" should buy a new videocard or better yet, just go play ping pong or fuzz-ball or something.… Expand
  55. hellznrg
    Jul 24, 2011
    10
    This is a great game, definitely worth playing. I had a few false starts over the last few years, but i played it and finished it over the last few weeks. according to steam, I clocked in at 27 hours. The game has a few bugs still but none of which are showstopping. This game had a few balance issues (way too much ammo and money in the world, pistols are completely useless beyond the firstThis is a great game, definitely worth playing. I had a few false starts over the last few years, but i played it and finished it over the last few weeks. according to steam, I clocked in at 27 hours. The game has a few bugs still but none of which are showstopping. This game had a few balance issues (way too much ammo and money in the world, pistols are completely useless beyond the first 2 hours or so). The environments was absolutely stunning and very authentic looking. Before playing the game I suggest you read up on the history of chernobyl on wikipedia... it's fascinating. The enemy AI was very good, but unfortunately there was no stealth aspect to the game, simply because enemies are aware of you almost all of the time, so the only way is to run and gun. The story was just ok and the missions were pretty all right. Overall I loved it... HOWEVER, i unfortunately hadn't heard of "stalker complete 2009" until after I finished the game, which was a real pity... so if you haven't played it yet, be sure to pick up that mod before starting up the game.… Expand
  56. brettjv
    Sep 7, 2010
    10
    Synopsis: The greatest single-player FPS experience ever made ... and I've played darn near all of them.

    Okay, first of all, people ... if there's ever been a game in the history of the world where reviewing it after playing it for an hour or two (or less) is totally inappropriate, it is this game. Secondly, reviews from 2007 complaining about bugs should be basically ignored. This game    Synopsis: The greatest single-player FPS experience ever made ... and I've played darn near all of them.

    Okay, first of all, people ... if there's ever been a game in the history of the world where reviewing it after playing it for an hour or two (or less) is totally inappropriate, it is this game. Secondly, reviews from 2007 complaining about bugs should be basically ignored. This game didn't really get fully patched until '08, but when you play it now it's a fairly bug-free experience.

    Now, on to the game. I've had it since '07, I've played it through with just about every patch that's come out. I've also played it through with a bunch of different mods. This means I've found it engrossing enough to play through at least 10 separate times. And it is not a short game either.

    In fairness, this is not a perfect game by any stretch. YES, it's relatively difficult in the beginning. Yes, the weapons are terrible, and inaccurate, and under-powered, and you die ... a lot. Yes the PDA is kinda hard to figure out, it's hard to know what to do. Unlike most big-budget titles, the beginnings of your career as a Stalker is perilous and confusing. There is no hand-holding, and you need to make manual saves A LOT, because death will always be at your doorstep.

    But if you stick with it, you figure these things out. You get better weapons and armor, and artifacts to improve your survival rate. You get accurate weapons with scopes, etc. You slowly adapt to life in 'The Zone', and become proficient at all the things you need to be proficient at in order to survive.

    I can practically guarantee that if you play this game through to conclusion (and make sure you do what's necessary to get the one 'Real' ending, otherwise the ending(s) suck), if you're an FPS fan, I can guarantee you that you will not be disappointed in the overall experience of this game.

    And in case I didn't mention it, the replay factor of this game is VERY high. And if you finish it, you'll almost certainly want to play it again.    … Expand
  57. Cobra007
    Nov 24, 2011
    10
    This is a game that you really want to love, but sadly it's put down by all the bugs in the game. There's either bugs that crash the game, that make a quest impossible to finish, to bugs that simply make the gameplay suffer. If it weren't for the bugs, I'd be giving this game a 10, but sadly I must give it a 7 since the game just suffers alot from all the bugs.
  58. LordSeferoth
    Dec 30, 2011
    10
    Most atmospheric game i have ever played. Stalker: Shadow of Chernobyl is amazing combination of Shooter and Roleplaying. Stalker is an experience you never forget.
  59. ExtincT
    Dec 31, 2010
    10
    A truly atmospheric game which gives you a very strange feeling while playing it. I remember the first time I played it, I hated it for the dated graphics (even though I never look at the graphics in games), for the bad so called tutorial and the (what I felt then) extremely hard gunfights. As I was going to uninstall it I got the feeling that I should give it a chance. I don't regret thatA truly atmospheric game which gives you a very strange feeling while playing it. I remember the first time I played it, I hated it for the dated graphics (even though I never look at the graphics in games), for the bad so called tutorial and the (what I felt then) extremely hard gunfights. As I was going to uninstall it I got the feeling that I should give it a chance. I don't regret that choice today. While you play along you get to learn the art of killing in this game and get a very rewarding feeling when you do it. Combat is complex in this game but that is a positive thing since I'm tired of today's FPS games where you are like a tank and your weapons are so easily used that even your grandma could pull a shot at somebodies head. Other than that I can guarantee that you will fall in love with the Zone as it is truly alive with its mutants, environments and anomalies. This game combines big parts of the FPS genre with its own twists and elements of the RPG genre with its free roaming, scavenging etc. I recommend this game to everyone cause it is a remarkable and special game in it own right. Give it a shot and you won't get disappointed. Good hunting stalker!… Expand
  60. tronchaviones
    Jun 7, 2011
    10
    Great game. It is priceless to be alone in the night, sat on a broken rooftop under a big thunderstorm, without any ammunitions and hearing a lot of mutant wolfs breathing while waiting for their lunch...
  61. NostalgicRobotX
    Mar 25, 2011
    10
    Lately, the industry has been flooded with CoD-esque linear shooters. Very few games now-a-days have the pure, innovative gameplay, that S.T.A.L.K.E.R: Shadow of Chernobyl provides. STALKER is a lot of things, it's atmospheric, it's frightening, it's unique, and it's quite hard. However, STALKER is not Call of Duty, nor is it Fallout, and especially not Oblivion, it isn't even an entirelyLately, the industry has been flooded with CoD-esque linear shooters. Very few games now-a-days have the pure, innovative gameplay, that S.T.A.L.K.E.R: Shadow of Chernobyl provides. STALKER is a lot of things, it's atmospheric, it's frightening, it's unique, and it's quite hard. However, STALKER is not Call of Duty, nor is it Fallout, and especially not Oblivion, it isn't even an entirely perfect game. To the players that man up, and fight there way through the zone, this will be a game that is played over, and over again.

    With 7 different endings, and a amazingly long single player mode, this game will deliver surprises both good and bad for years to come, especially with the huge modding community.

    STALKER tries to be annoyingly realistic. You will die of blood loss, if you don't bandage up wounds. You will not take a shotgun wound standing. You will not walk away from radiation, without some medication.

    Graphically, STALKER has some of the best dynamic lighting engines ever, and it's a game that holds off the bloom, so it has a distinctive "dirty" look. Perfect for the harsh wastelands surrounding Chernobyl.

    Most bugs have been patched, and I highly recommend that everyone plays this spectacular game.    … Expand
  62. Kelu
    Dec 25, 2011
    10
    Back in 2007 STALKER brought a breeze of fresh air in the horror genre. It's postapolaiptic Zone countryside was unforgiving, the atmosphere thick and some locations scared you **** Though buggy at release, got a bunch of official patches, and even professional-quality mod packs - look up STALKER Complete series of mods, which fixes most annoying features and bugs left by the developers,Back in 2007 STALKER brought a breeze of fresh air in the horror genre. It's postapolaiptic Zone countryside was unforgiving, the atmosphere thick and some locations scared you **** Though buggy at release, got a bunch of official patches, and even professional-quality mod packs - look up STALKER Complete series of mods, which fixes most annoying features and bugs left by the developers, and brings the graphics up to 2011 standards. A must-play for those who enjoy being afraid.… Expand
  63. Selvec
    Jun 10, 2011
    10
    I just started walking around, and low and behold, 5 dogs pounced on me out of nowhere., and then flashes of radiation randomly killed me. What? Ummm. . . AWESOME! This game doesn't hold my hand, and actually turns the environment against you. I'd probably have understood it more if I wasn't such a bloody moron and didn't run ahead, or ignore the manuel. Damn my complete stupidity and lackI just started walking around, and low and behold, 5 dogs pounced on me out of nowhere., and then flashes of radiation randomly killed me. What? Ummm. . . AWESOME! This game doesn't hold my hand, and actually turns the environment against you. I'd probably have understood it more if I wasn't such a bloody moron and didn't run ahead, or ignore the manuel. Damn my complete stupidity and lack of taste. Damn it.… Expand
  64. crazychicken
    Jul 5, 2011
    10
    This is hands down, the best single player game I have played. The atmosphere is fantastic and unlike any other game out there. it was in development for years and even though they didn't manage to include everything they wanted, what they did is still incredible. this is no Console shooter or port, if you want a simple run and gun don't buy it and play for 20 minutes and complain whenThis is hands down, the best single player game I have played. The atmosphere is fantastic and unlike any other game out there. it was in development for years and even though they didn't manage to include everything they wanted, what they did is still incredible. this is no Console shooter or port, if you want a simple run and gun don't buy it and play for 20 minutes and complain when unlike Crysis you can't kill everything in 10 seconds with your hi tech gun and invincible **** suit.

    First of all, don't play it without downloading the Complete mod for free first. This updates the textures, sounds, AI, fixes a load of bugs and errors and makes the game what it wanted to be. It doesn't change anything, just cleans it all up.

    This game isn't like other FPS because it is actually hard. You don't start off with an amazing gun and squad and intel, you have a coat and a pistol and aside from that you are on your own. The Zone is an easy place to die even without having a host of powerful mutants and heavily armed humans roaming around. This game doesn't hold your hand like Western shooters do, or load you up with amazing gear under the guise of being some Spec Ops soldier. The atmosphere is incredible, part's of it are creepy as hell and scary and not like the Doom3 teen equivalent of having a monster jump out when you press the door button or a loud bang etc. It is hard to get into because it is so unforgiving, and the first few maps and missions you are constantly trying to find a decent weapon that doesnt force you to retreat when outnumbered etc. If you want a linear shooter like HL2 or CoD with no freeplay, dialogue or exploration and lots of cutscenes then look elsewhere. There are plenty of games liek that around. if you want a slow hard atmospheric adventure then give it a try, turn out all the lights and play it till the sun comes up; call in sick and keep on playing.

    Very few games are ever made like this because of the time spent and expertise of a dedicated small team that a large company could never replicate. There is such a talented modding community there are literally thousands of mods you can install; including some Total Conversions that change the story completely - and are good enough to be stolen by the developers for Call of Pripyat.

    10/10    … Expand
  65. Rotemetoot
    Jul 12, 2011
    10
    "In Soviet Russia (ok... Ukraine), game plays you..."

    I play this game with the "Complete 2009" mod. They say you have to play with it because it removes bugs and updates the graphics, without removing or adding any gameplay mechanics. So credits to them for making this game a "10" title. This game isn't a console port which gives it 1 bonus point in my opinion. I think even reviewing    "In Soviet Russia (ok... Ukraine), game plays you..."


    I play this game with the "Complete 2009" mod.
    They say you have to play with it because it removes bugs and updates the graphics, without removing or adding any gameplay mechanics.
    So credits to them for making this game a "10" title.

    This game isn't a console port which gives it 1 bonus point in my opinion.

    I think even reviewing a game in many cases is a spoiler because the best thing is to just go and play it without knowing before hand what you can except and without having so many opinions about it...

    Awesome rpg meets awesome fps shooter.

    10/10    … Expand
  66. Sidewayz
    Jul 16, 2011
    10
    This game is utterly stunning. A breakthrough as far as gaming is concerned. Being a true hunter, I can honestly declare S.T.A.L.K.E.R as the most realistic account of actually lugging a weapon in an open field. In fact, it is easy to forget yourself and imagine a proper hunting trip through scrub and forest with industrial detritus thrown in as a bonus. Although the foliage isThis game is utterly stunning. A breakthrough as far as gaming is concerned. Being a true hunter, I can honestly declare S.T.A.L.K.E.R as the most realistic account of actually lugging a weapon in an open field. In fact, it is easy to forget yourself and imagine a proper hunting trip through scrub and forest with industrial detritus thrown in as a bonus. Although the foliage is consistent throughout the game, the environments are extensive and the scenery varies - from contaminated creeks and swamps, to hills and elevated terrain. There is a literal plethora of abandoned buildings and hidden areas to explore and almost all of them contain some kind of reward. The loose goals and utter in-game freedom encourage exploration and provide great incentive for the player to realise all of the inherent possibilities. Adding further to this, eery music, strange biological sound effects and unusually gloomy areas all culminate to form a unique sense of mystery. Overall, this game genuinely appeals to the hunter gatherer instinct, which judging by some of these reviews, seems to be on the decline. When it comes to personal items, you start off with the bare minimum (pretty much junk) and have to work your way up to achieve a high tactical prowess. Although this is a common theme in many FPS's, it is starkly emphasised in this particular title. Items known as artifacts can be found scattered around the environs and offer a vast improvement in terms of Strelok's abilities. Some artifacts provide resistance to radiation and chemical burns, whilst others increase stamina and healing. Since they occur in dangerous areas, artifacts commend great value on the market and the rarer ones can be sold or swapped amongst stalkers for virtually anything that is on offer. Ammunition is relatively scarce, and must be conserved in order to ensure success. Players will find themselves searching dead bodies and unloading dropped weapons in order to accumulate their ammo. Similarly, health supplies like medkits can be difficult to find, but if a player is careful, they do eventually accumulate. Bandages, anti-rad medicines and foodstuffs are very common throughout the game, but can be quickly depleted if a player fails to be conservative. The weapons in this game are nothing short of brilliant. High end weapons are customisable and behave in a very realistic manner - there is a whole lot of recoil from auto weapons and this makes aiming virtually impossible when shooting in full automatic. During large bursts, a weapon will sway both traversely and longitudinally making it very difficult to shoot distant targets. This can be counteracted by switching the weapon mode to single/semi or by firing in sporadic bursts. Even with a brand new rifle, accuracy is never 100% and when overused, a weapon's condition will deteriorate further, hence decreasing its effectiveness. Jamming is common in poorly guns, and they must be reloaded to permit firing again. This is especially fun during battles, as it gets the adrenaline pumping. To further increase immersion, some of the most rugged and tactically appropriate weapons are provided, like the AK-47, AKS-74, VSS Vintorez, FN F-2000, MP-5 and LR-300. This choice of weapons is extremely consistent with the survival theme. By offering RIS rails, tactical weapons can be customised with grenade launchers, silencers and improved optics. There are also one off weapons hidden throughout the zone, which offer vast improvements over the base weapons and often commend a high resale price.

    To suggest that gameplay can be difficult is a dramatic understatement. Although Strelok will do everything he is commanded to do with a sturdy, surefooted confidence (unlike the wooden and clumsy JC Denton in Deus EX), the enemies are very competent at engaging and will take cover before unleashing a torrent of bullets. A few well placed shots are enough to kill Strelok, and a serious injury will lead to profuse bleeding. If left untreated, profuse bleeding can kill Strelok very quickly, so it must be stopped by applying bandages or by using a medkit. Whilst spawning does occur in this game, it is by no means obvious. So long as you remain in the area which you have cleared, it generally stays clear. Factions of bandits will usually reclaim the area once you leave for another region, but engaging them on the way back is strictly optional. Overall, the S.T.A.L.K.E.R franchise offers a great gaming experience which has not been replicated since. I have found that the closest title of similar offerings is FEAR, but it is much more streamlined. The zone is such a diverse world that replay value is a virtual guarantee. If you still have hunter-gatherer instincts and enjoy a challenging and complex survival based shooter with realistic physics and a very effective horror element you won't find a better game.    … Expand
  67. skipper_is
    Oct 14, 2011
    10
    One of my favourite games of all time. Yes it's buggy, and horrendously difficult in some places as you die by tripping over a rock... and the enemies need nothing short of a tactical nuke to kill. But lovably so. Some great hair raising moments, and a good sense of "pphhew" at the end. Great game
  68. pandorazero
    Jun 30, 2016
    10
    Amazing game for its time, I recommend to read it!
    Perhaps it will seem outdated at the chart at the moment, but the game atmosphere is awesome!
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  69. erichlebt
    Feb 26, 2012
    10
    Simply a great and outstanding game. To this day (2/26/2012) I've not played any video game with such dense, dark, frightening atmosphere. Play it when it's dark, put your headphones on and get ready to **** your pants.
  70. Ancient
    Sep 10, 2015
    10
    One of the best games ever created! It is so atmospheric and different then any other game. And it's probably the last game/series without hand holding nonsense.
  71. QuarterLife
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    Absolute cult-classic with a mod community large enough that you could probably play this game for the rest of your life and not get bored.
  72. Lead
    Sep 11, 2012
    10
    ''ATMOSPHERE'' There İs Nothing Much To Say.
  73. tayfuntuna
    Jul 24, 2013
    10
    The only game, even after years, that makes me come back for more and more. It's like a road trip to a place where one of the most catastrophic events took place. It's also like playing Counter-Strike in a huge world (With perfect precision as CS doesn't even have iron sights option). Even after finishing the game for 10 times, the next time I play there are times that I don't know what'sThe only game, even after years, that makes me come back for more and more. It's like a road trip to a place where one of the most catastrophic events took place. It's also like playing Counter-Strike in a huge world (With perfect precision as CS doesn't even have iron sights option). Even after finishing the game for 10 times, the next time I play there are times that I don't know what's around the corner.… Expand
  74. Brosman
    Aug 1, 2013
    10
    This is the best survival game out there and i wont here anyone else say otherwise. On higher difficulties, ammo, health, and other nessecities are hard to come by. You and your enemies die in one or two shots and when you're hit you'll bleed out and die unless you bandage yourself up. Weapons have realistic recoil (at least more realistic then some modern FPS's) and hitting enemies withThis is the best survival game out there and i wont here anyone else say otherwise. On higher difficulties, ammo, health, and other nessecities are hard to come by. You and your enemies die in one or two shots and when you're hit you'll bleed out and die unless you bandage yourself up. Weapons have realistic recoil (at least more realistic then some modern FPS's) and hitting enemies with older more worn guns can be a challenge. youll constantly be stashing supplies in hiding spots in the world and taking ammo and bandages from dead enemies. You actually feel like your trying to survive, and that's something a lot of games fail to do. The story isn't that exceptional but is interesting and being very interested in what happened at Chernobyl, this game's setting is amazing and original. I heard that this game was the Crysis of its day and it shows as the world is very detailed and graphics intensive for its time. The game does everything right and still holds up to this day.… Expand
  75. gracjanski
    May 9, 2018
    10
    Surely one of the best shooter in the last years and unique in comparison to others. It is not just about shooting: you have an inventory, collect many items, which you trade and you talk with NPCs, like in a RPG.
    The biggest plus in this game is the atmosphere, dark and dirty. The setting remembers to Fallout of course, but Stalker has many own ideas, so it is not just a copy.
    There are    Surely one of the best shooter in the last years and unique in comparison to others. It is not just about shooting: you have an inventory, collect many items, which you trade and you talk with NPCs, like in a RPG.
    The biggest plus in this game is the atmosphere, dark and dirty. The setting remembers to Fallout of course, but Stalker has many own ideas, so it is not just a copy.
    There are many mods for this game, I used the complete mod, many are using Autumn Aurora and others. Your decision. The graphic was great in 2007 and with some mods the game looks still very good.
    The side quests are generic and boring, so I didnt take them.
    The AI is good in the open field, but sometimes stupid, more often in buildings.    … Expand
  76. Suokukko
    Dec 3, 2013
    10
    This is probably one of the most amazing and extreme first person shooters i have ever played, yes it has its bugs and coding issues but once you patch the game and get everything up to speed, the game had me playing for hours and hours. so many different things and possibilitys you can explore and proceed in many different ways. Just has me playing and playing just because of the severalThis is probably one of the most amazing and extreme first person shooters i have ever played, yes it has its bugs and coding issues but once you patch the game and get everything up to speed, the game had me playing for hours and hours. so many different things and possibilitys you can explore and proceed in many different ways. Just has me playing and playing just because of the several ways you can play through it, and many different and interesting endings and gameplay route within it. Its sort of like Deus ex and BioShock so if your a fan of the Dues ex or BioShock i highly recommend this game. With the types of game play thats implemented in this game you'll just be blown away by the story and and environmental surrounding of this hostile world of Chernobyl!… Expand
  77. TubeSockJ
    Sep 30, 2013
    10
    This stunning game was worth every penny I payed. I felt totally immersed in combat, scrounging, and just simply getting by. There are so many lifelike aspects of the game, which I rarely found in any other FPSes. Although some might say that the game is "notoriously buggy," I have never encountered a single crash, lag, or anything like that. The graphic styling is charmingly bleak,This stunning game was worth every penny I payed. I felt totally immersed in combat, scrounging, and just simply getting by. There are so many lifelike aspects of the game, which I rarely found in any other FPSes. Although some might say that the game is "notoriously buggy," I have never encountered a single crash, lag, or anything like that. The graphic styling is charmingly bleak, setting an apocalyptic and dark tone. Gameplay is astonishing, especially in a gunfight. Instead of just running and gunning, you need to actually engage in combat, maintain your health and ammo, and check flanks as diligently as you can. All in all, this game (for me) set a new standard in first-person shooters. It's worth your money and time, and you owe it to yourself to play this game.… Expand
  78. carlinux
    Aug 29, 2014
    10
    This is the kind of inspired game you can play two or three times and enjoy every journey as a different game. Probably one the five best games of the decade. very good story and screenplay, gorgeous graphics (especially with the Complete 2009 Mod), and an amazingly well balanced and smart AI. Hands down. Perhaps the only thing that could be better is... more Stalker games. The saga endedThis is the kind of inspired game you can play two or three times and enjoy every journey as a different game. Probably one the five best games of the decade. very good story and screenplay, gorgeous graphics (especially with the Complete 2009 Mod), and an amazingly well balanced and smart AI. Hands down. Perhaps the only thing that could be better is... more Stalker games. The saga ended with Call of Pripyat and the studio was closed so.. is unlikely to happen.… Expand
  79. isidore12
    Aug 4, 2018
    10
    STALKER has been probably my best experience for a shooter / survival game.

    You need to install the add-on COMPLETE to really enjoy the game (re-work of all the textures) as the game looks old.
  80. SleepNot
    Mar 28, 2020
    10
    S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl is my favorite game I have ever played!!! I played for 3 times! I love it!
  81. Jodle
    Dec 1, 2015
    10
    Masterpiece this game is amazing
    . . .
  82. Stuart84555
    Mar 29, 2016
    10
    If you can look past the janky AI, text-based interface and various bugs (all of which are fixed by patches) in the vanilla game, then you are in for a real treat. An incredibly immersive FPS in a post-Chernobyl setting, STALKER: Shadow of Chernobyl has a gripping plot with twists as well as many different dangers to encounter and learn about, without any nannying. STALKER is a game whichIf you can look past the janky AI, text-based interface and various bugs (all of which are fixed by patches) in the vanilla game, then you are in for a real treat. An incredibly immersive FPS in a post-Chernobyl setting, STALKER: Shadow of Chernobyl has a gripping plot with twists as well as many different dangers to encounter and learn about, without any nannying. STALKER is a game which allows you to play however you wish, whether a heavily-armored juggernaut carrying a grenade launcher, or a sneaky assassin with a sniper rifle, but enemies include more than just humans. The STALKER Complete mod is strongly recommended even for the first play-through, covering bug-fixes, updating graphics and lighting, in order to deliver a more polished version of the vanilla game. 11/10 recommend this game if you enjoy story-based FPS, you will play this game again and again and again.… Expand
  83. BreakingAwesome
    May 14, 2016
    10
    Самый лучшая игра созданная когда-либо в СНГ. GSC отлично постарались над созданием игры. При разработке игра много раз сильно изменялась и постепенно переходила из 6-го поколение в 7-е. Для того времени игра преуспевал во всех игровых аспектах: графика, геймплей, мир, подача сюжета, атмосфера. Единственный небольшой минус - игры нету на консолях. Но это не повод снижать оценку игре.Самый лучшая игра созданная когда-либо в СНГ. GSC отлично постарались над созданием игры. При разработке игра много раз сильно изменялась и постепенно переходила из 6-го поколение в 7-е. Для того времени игра преуспевал во всех игровых аспектах: графика, геймплей, мир, подача сюжета, атмосфера. Единственный небольшой минус - игры нету на консолях. Но это не повод снижать оценку игре. ПК-геймерам действительно есть чем гордится!… Expand
  84. TheChosenOne7
    Jan 23, 2017
    10
    This is different from my first review, but all the problems I had with the game were fixed by playing on Master difficulty. This mode is much more fair and makes a lot more sense combat wise while playing on Master. I am giving it a 9.5/10, .5 taken off for being a bit repetitive.
  85. gautamkumar633
    Dec 7, 2022
    10
    In S.T.A.L.K.E.R. there are no bugs, only anomalies. Without doubt the greatest openworld survival horror game that exists. The only openworld survival game that has great replaybility in my opinion. Life in the Zone is harsh and weapons scarce. The gameplay is eerily immersive and haunting in way that can't be explained. Cheeki Breeki to all the S.T.A.L.K.E.R.s out there still lost in the Zone.
  86. KelvinSelimor
    Sep 19, 2021
    10
    S.T.A.L.K.E.R .: Shadow of Chernobyl. Remember everything while you are still alive. Insanely atmospheric and addictive game. The plot, gameplay, tasks, mutants and anomalies are all done at a high level. For a very long time, you do not want to leave the Exclusion Zone, so you play over and over again.
  87. Gracz-org
    Aug 8, 2017
    10
    S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Cień Czarnobyla jest grą ponadczasową, która dzięki fanom z całego świata będzie rozwijać się nadal, nawet pomimo rozpadu studia, które ją stworzyło. Po ponownym spędzeniu z nią kilkunastu godzin muszę powiedzieć jedno - wciąga jak diabli i nawet po tylu latach nie straciła ani szczypty ze swojej grywalności. Co więcej, dzięki stale pojawiającym się modyfikacjom - wciążS.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Cień Czarnobyla jest grą ponadczasową, która dzięki fanom z całego świata będzie rozwijać się nadal, nawet pomimo rozpadu studia, które ją stworzyło. Po ponownym spędzeniu z nią kilkunastu godzin muszę powiedzieć jedno - wciąga jak diabli i nawet po tylu latach nie straciła ani szczypty ze swojej grywalności. Co więcej, dzięki stale pojawiającym się modyfikacjom - wciąż możemy podziwiać ją w pełnej okazałości. Świat przedstawiony w grze jeszcze nigdy nie był tak dziki, przerażający i wciągający zarazem. W żadnej innej produkcji nie miałem również wrażenia, że jestem tylko gościem w tym zapomnianym przez Boga miejscu, gdzie żądza władzy i bogactwa krzyżuje się z wolą przetrwania i odnalezienia prawdy. W końcu, jak już kiedyś napisałem „Stalker to nie zawód, to w pewnym sensie powołanie…”

    Plusy:
    + fenomenalny klimat
    + ogromny, żyjący świat gry
    + wolność w poruszaniu się
    + fabuła oraz historia głównego bohatera
    + grafika oraz wizja świata
    + projekty broni oraz wyposażenia
    + niezapomniany klimat czasów ZSSR :-)
    + odwzorowanie Czarnobyla i jego okolic
    + Prypeć do zwiedzenia!
    + 7 różnych zakończeń
    + nawet po wielu latach nie pozwala
    oderwać się od monitora

    Minusy:
    – drobne błędy w AI przeciwników
    – wciąga jak diabli! ;-)

    Pełna recenzja dostępna jest na blogu Gracz.org    … Expand
  88. RoccoCille
    Jan 15, 2023
    10
    I decided to pick up STALKER off the back of all the hype for its long awaited sequel, due to drop in 2023 at some point. Playing it now some 15yrs later, I'm blown away by how good this game is, as most look incredibly dated. Gritty, grim, edgy, the graphics of the zone while dated now, still look good, but the star of this game is the AI of the NPC's and the gun mechanics and combat.I decided to pick up STALKER off the back of all the hype for its long awaited sequel, due to drop in 2023 at some point. Playing it now some 15yrs later, I'm blown away by how good this game is, as most look incredibly dated. Gritty, grim, edgy, the graphics of the zone while dated now, still look good, but the star of this game is the AI of the NPC's and the gun mechanics and combat.

    Genuinely some of the best still that I've come across, it feels raw and authentic. You can be taken out by NPC's making their way around to flank you from behind when you're pinned if you're not careful. Don't expect them to walk through a door into your double barrel shotgun, they'll be happy to sit back and wait for you to make a move if it looks unsafe.

    Then there's the dystopian plot with the great maps. The mutants, radiation, artefacts.. it's all been so much fun. I'm about 25hrs in and have blended about half the time on the main contract, and half on side quests, which with hindsight is the right approach. Rushing too much on the main contract would probably lead to a less satisfying play experience, and were they designing it today, I would hope they would not unlock further stages until more side quests or play time was accumulated, to prevent that.

    I'm giving this a rare 10/10 for the reason that this is clearly a genre defining classic. For a game to be THIS good 15yrs after release is frankly insane. It should be clunky, crude and while fun also quite laughable at times, in the way Fallout New Vegas is for example. But this isn't: I think it comes down to the amount of time built into the AI, and the weapon/combat mechanics, which are the core of STALKER.

    For anybody who's not checked it out, it's so cheap now that I can't recommend it highly enough for hours of fun. And a great way to build up for the release of STALKER 2, which I'll 100% now be buying on release.    … Expand
  89. SilverMiner
    Jul 7, 2018
    10
    Очень крутая игра, быстро затягивает. Можно делать моды. Нелинейность сюжета
  90. psych0z
    Nov 4, 2018
    10
    Игра при игре в которую хочется реально погрузиться. Лучшая графика для своего времени. Игра от которой ты удивляешься на каждом шагу от самых обычных вещей которые есть в каждой игре.
  91. Big_boss1337
    Feb 11, 2019
    10
    Эта игра шикарна. Я не олдфаг и ничего не знал о сталкере до 2019 года. Тень Чернобыля - первая часть, в которую я играл. Она прекрасна во всём. Графен: даже на низких настройках игра выглядит лучше некоторых современных игр, на высоких - уделывает 50% игрушек (напоминаю, игра 2007 года). Физика: всё настолько реалистично, что если ударить по канистре - она взорвётся; оружие оченьЭта игра шикарна. Я не олдфаг и ничего не знал о сталкере до 2019 года. Тень Чернобыля - первая часть, в которую я играл. Она прекрасна во всём. Графен: даже на низких настройках игра выглядит лучше некоторых современных игр, на высоких - уделывает 50% игрушек (напоминаю, игра 2007 года). Физика: всё настолько реалистично, что если ударить по канистре - она взорвётся; оружие очень натурально стреляет, чувствуется его вес и отдача. Открытый мир: пустоват, но на всех важных локациях можно бегать, прыгать, ломать некоторые текстуры, забираться в неизвестные нычки и т.д. Искусственный интеллект: боты очень умные, легко найдут вас в любом месте, аккуратны, экономят боезапас, агр не проходит, стоит только отбежать от NPC, как в некоторых играх. Сюжет: куча разветвлений и поворотов, каждый проходит игру по своему. Можно бегать туда, куда тебе скажут, а моно забить болт и стрелять во всё, что движется. Рекомендую именно купить игру, а не качать с торрента (если, конечно, бюджет позволяет), ведь хочется и в будущем видеть подобные шедевры… Expand
  92. chatskyisretard
    Mar 7, 2019
    10
    Best FPS and atmosphere game I ever player.
    10 Волков в костре на складах из 10.
  93. Artyom2033
    Aug 1, 2021
    10
    Best game i ever played!!! Please give us S.T.A.L.K.E.R 2, we need a new chapter of history!)
  94. Ruslan1327
    May 15, 2019
    10
    This game is excellent, not perfect, but very cool! I advise everyone to play!
  95. Mars_selo
    Jul 4, 2019
    10
    Обожаю эту игру!
    Помню, как мой брат принес диск со странной игрой.
    В тот момент мне казалось, что игра будет не очень, но я никогда так в жизни не ошибался!
    Геймплей 9/10 *не хватает улучшений оружия*
    Сюжет 10/10
  96. Ilyacold1
    Jul 18, 2019
    10
    Одна из самых атмосферных игр с шикарным продуманным сюжетом и великолепным геймплеем
  97. pastelatomico
    Oct 26, 2019
    10
    um jogo com personagens, missões e um mundo aberto incrível, e conseguiram ainda, conscilar junto com sua história e em um dos finais alternativos, um pouco da filosofia e ideolgoia do filme Stalker do Andrey Tarkovsky de 1979, eu amo esse jogo.
  98. FFyord
    Dec 21, 2019
    10
    It’s my favorite game ever!!! There are many advantages in the game. I love it so much!
  99. Sad-Ziro
    Jan 20, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Я сыграл и мне панравилас рекамидую всем томчесле с модами… Expand
  100. Foest
    Feb 14, 2020
    10
    Это очень атмосферная игра с частично открытым миром и отличным сюжетом. Если вы родились на постсоветском пространстве, то эта игра точно найдет путь к вашему сердцу . Саундтрек и музыкальное окружение вызовут мурашки по всему телу, а некоторые локации пугают даже самых матерых сталкеров. Игра заслуживает 10/10 пойманых маслин!Это очень атмосферная игра с частично открытым миром и отличным сюжетом. Если вы родились на постсоветском пространстве, то эта игра точно найдет путь к вашему сердцу . Саундтрек и музыкальное окружение вызовут мурашки по всему телу, а некоторые локации пугают даже самых матерых сталкеров. Игра заслуживает 10/10 пойманых маслин!
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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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