STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl launched on November 20, 2024, and while it received acclaim for its immersive gameplay, it also faced criticism for numerous bugs.

Despite these issues, the game garnered generally positive feedback overall, particularly from players in Ukraine, where it is both set and developed.

The game achieved remarkable commercial success, selling over one million copies within just two days of its release, not including additional players accessing it through Xbox Game Pass.

The launch was so popular among Ukrainian players that it caused nationwide internet outages shortly after its release, highlighting the game's significance to the community.

The development team faced significant challenges, including a fire at their studio due to Russian shelling and the tragic death of colleague Volodymyr Yezhov in combat.

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine forced many developers to relocate for safety, resulting in GSC Game World's staff being split between Prague and Kiev.

CEO Ievgen Grygorovych noted the exhaustion of the development team, comparing the decision to delay the launch to running a marathon on empty energy.

In response to the game's rough launch, GSC Game World has released three substantial updates aimed at fixing critical issues and improving accessibility for players.

Creative director Mariia Grygorovych acknowledged the game's imperfections but emphasized that it is filled with soul and emotion, reflecting the team's dedication.

Despite the challenges, Grygorovych expressed a sense of purpose in creating the game, viewing it as a contribution to their country during a difficult time.

Grygorovych also expressed amazement at the enthusiasm of players, stating that the game's release touched everyone in the country.

A documentary titled 'War Game: The Making of Stalker 2' details the development struggles and sacrifices made by the team, further illustrating their commitment.