Enter the Zone — a place where the rules of physics cease to exist, and stalkers vanish without a trace. Every move you make could be your final one.
You will:
* Discover the Zone's secrets — deserted lands, dark forests, lethal swamps, and areas with anomalies. Danger and unique artifacts hide in each spot.
* Face adversaries — mutants, robbers, troops, and fellow stalkers. The combat system, turn-based and demanding, requires careful planning; each move counts.
* Gather gear — from basic shotguns to advanced NATO rifles and cutting-edge exoskeletons, the choice is vast.
* Stay alive — in the Zone, strength alone won't suffice; you must strategize, manage resources wisely, and know when to retreat.
Stalker, heed this: the Zone spares no weaklings, but those who endure and bring back artifacts will be richly rewarded.
Are you prepared to venture forth?
How to play
On the map, you'll see marked spots—that's where you might encounter foes, find artifacts, or discover valuable resources. Be wary and keep a close eye on your environment, as not all areas are safe and some dangers are better left alone.
When you're in anomalous zones, you'll gradually build up radiation exposure and use up energy. In battles, enemies will inflict damage on you, so keep a careful watch on your character's health.
Artifacts spawn in anomalies, each with its own special properties that can aid in combat, offer protection against anomalies, or boost your abilities.
Before engaging in combat, make sure to check the enemy's stats, including their health, armor, and damage output. If the enemy is too powerful, it's wise to retreat, gather more resources, and come back better prepared. The Zone doesn't tolerate arrogance.
The map also shows safe havens like camps, stalker bases, and trading posts where you can catch your breath. There, you can trade, get the latest news, take on quests, or simply rest.