When the Monolith in STALKER: Shadow of Chernobyl called out, it wasn’t hinting at a shift in gaming platforms. Yet, STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl seems to be heading to the PlayStation 5 on November 20, 2024, leaving some Game Pass fans feeling abandoned.
This much-anticipated sequel had a challenging launch last year on PC and Xbox Series X|S. While PS5 users might cheer, Game Pass members are left in a tough spot. It’s not uncommon for games to leave Game Pass, but it stings when players have waited for bugs to be fixed before diving in.
Many fans, myself included, are longtime fans of the STALKER series. I’ve sunk countless hours into the original trilogy and mods like STALKER Anomaly. I was excited to review STALKER 2, but my experience turned frustrating due to bugs and long loading times. Overall, it didn’t feel finished.
The developers have put in considerable effort to improve the game since its rocky launch. However, with the Game Pass exit looming, players who waited for fixes may feel they’ve missed their chance. Starting this month, they’ll need to pay $59.99 to continue, and progress won’t automatically transfer to other platforms unless purchased through the Xbox store.
In a recent Reddit post, a user shared a guide on converting save files to different platforms, which could help players keep their progress. Unfortunately, there’s no easy solution for achievements.
Moreover, this event adds to Xbox’s recent turmoil, especially after a controversial price hike that led to cancellations. The upcoming Black Friday might provide discounts on STALKER 2, but one has to wonder about the future of Game Pass and player trust.
Interestingly, the gaming community has taken to social media to express their concerns. On platforms like Twitter and Reddit, many share their disappointment about the game’s transition from Game Pass and rally for better communication from Xbox regarding future releases.
In this fast-changing gaming environment, it’s essential to keep players informed. The gaming landscape is competitive, and STALKER 2 is a reminder that communication with fans is key to maintaining loyalty.
Stay tuned for updates on STALKER 2 and its journey as it continues to evolve. For more on gaming statistics and trends, check this recent article on gaming market shifts.
