S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl was, hands down, one of my favorite games of 2024. A year later, I’m still exploring the Zone. I’ve played through multiple times, rushed through the story, and taken my sweet time exploring every nook and cranny. So, when GSC Game World reached out offering a look at the PlayStation 5 release version, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity. Here’s our official S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl PS5 review!
Editor’s Note: The Guide Hall received a review copy of the game from the developer/publisher/PR for this review. Their generosity does not impact our overall opinion or thoughts on the game!
Let’s start with what’s new, specifically the PlayStation 5-exclusive features and optimizations.
Straight off the bat, I noticed the adaptive triggers, haptic feedback, and gyro aiming above all else. I had great fun with the gyro aiming feature to the point where I annoyed my partner by waving the controller around. But hey, it’s cool. Is it cool enough to actively use in-game? Not frequently, no. I only really used the feature while messing about, and chose standard aiming procedures when in combat.
Also, the game features full PS5 controller support for its speakers, lightbar, and touchpad, making interacting with the world around you slightly easier. Pair that with the Tempest 3D Audio setup, and you have even greater immersion than before. It’s astounding just how much this post-apocalyptic world can suck you in at times.
Now, let’s focus elsewhere, shall we?
A year since its initial release, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is in an excellent spot, thanks to the tireless work of GSC Game World. Following countless updates, the world feels more alive (at times), weapon balance feels peak, immersion remains at an all-time high, and the story and characters keep me captivated throughout my entire playtime.
Further increasing the game’s awe-inspiring immersion is the sound design. From the music, which I didn’t mute this time, to the SFX for weapons, everything pops. A simple walk from the safe zone to a nearby POI feels deadly, as you listen anxiously for the rustle of bushes nearby, with rain pattering down from overhead, and gunshots in the distance. It adds to the sense that the Zone is alive.
All that said, I did experience some pop-in textures and enemies. One moment, there’s nothing around, then I’m being ambushed by an enemy that spawned behind me. Or, I’ll be looking toward a POI in front of me, when trees begin to appear before me. It didn’t happen often, and it wasn’t overly distracting, so I’m not overly concerned.
The Verdict
No matter where you intend to play S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, whether it’s the original release on PC or the feature-packed version on PlayStation 5, it’s a first-person shooter worth your time. The upcoming expansions and regular content updates only cement how very much worth it this game is to buy, even at full price!