GSC Game World has released a substantial new update for STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl this May, introducing Patch 1.4. The latest update brings a wide array of enhancements and bug fixes aimed at refining the post-apocalyptic FPS experience.STALKER 2, which launched in November 2024, marks the long-awaited return of the franchise—15 years after 2009’s Call of Pripyat. As the fourth installment in the series, Heart of Chornobyl immerses players in a survival horror journey through the dangerous Exclusion Zone surrounding the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant.
The game’s development has been anything but smooth. Initially announced for a 2012 release, the project was shelved before being revived in 2018. Further delays followed due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Despite the setbacks, the team has remained committed to supporting the game post-launch, including future plans for expanded modding tools to better support the modding community that has long contributed to the STALKER legacy.
Detailed via social media and the game’s Steam page, Patch 1.4 focuses on improving AI and combat mechanics. Notably, it addresses a range of issues related to the behavior of A-Life NPCs. Additionally, updates have been made to the game’s terrifying mutant enemies, which include the Pseudogiant, Chimera, and Controller. Mutants can now perform corpse-eating animations and react to environmental activity by entering an “alert” state, making encounters feel more dynamic and immersive.
With these updates, GSC Game World continues to fine-tune STALKER 2, ensuring fans get the most out of their journey through the Zone.
STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl Rolls Out Patch 1.4 in May 2025
The latest STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl update—Patch 1.4—delivers a wide range of improvements and enhancements, continuing GSC Game World’s commitment to refining the post-apocalyptic experience. The update includes significant tweaks in the following areas:
- Mutant behavior enhancements
- AI and combat system refinements
- Gameplay balance adjustments
- Stability, bug, and performance improvements
- Updates to main storylines, side missions, and open-world encounters
- Technical fixes and system-level upgrades
Among the mission-specific updates, The Lost Boys quest received a fix addressing Max Saturday’s unexpected disappearance. Additional adjustments were also made to The Boundary mission to resolve persistent issues. GSC Game World also highlighted two unusual but appreciated fixes: one resolving a bug where shooting at sausage props caused problems, and another correcting a quirky issue where ducks could fly into water after being shot.
The STALKER fanbase responded positively to the update overall, though many players continue to request a PlayStation 5 version of the game.
With 2025 nearing its midpoint, GSC has already rolled out its Q2 roadmap for STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl. As promised, updates to the A-Life system have been implemented, alongside new weapon additions, improved mutant loot drops, and additional bug fixes aimed at streamlining gameplay. The roadmap also includes upcoming support for wide-screen aspect ratios and ongoing work to enhance game stability, optimize performance, and fine-tune in-game anomalies.