STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl, nearing its release after recently going gold, faces a potential ban in Russia. The game's development has been significantly impacted by the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, forcing developer GSC Game World to relocate some staff to the Czech Republic.
Russian officials have indicated that the game could be banned if it's deemed to "justify terrorism" or contains "extremist" or "anti-Russian" content. Even if officially banned from sale, Russians could still access the game through digital means like VPNs.
However, legal advisor Mikhail Mushailev warns that Russians purchasing the game through unofficial channels could be seen as supporting a "hostile force," potentially even meeting the criteria for terrorism under Russian law.
The situation is further complicated by Russia's brief occupation of Chornobyl earlier this year, the very setting of STALKER 2.
The final decision regarding a ban in Russia will likely be made after the game's global release. STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl is set to launch on November 20th for PC and Xbox Series X|S, and will also be available on Game Pass.
