STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl Roadmap Unveils Major 2025 Updates and PS5 Launch

STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl is gearing up for a big second year with major updates, an engine overhaul, and a long-awaited PlayStation 5 release. Developer GSC Game World recently revealed the game’s Q3 and Q4 2025 roadmap, detailing the features and improvements planned for the months ahead.

One of the most significant changes is the move to Unreal Engine 5.5.4, which is expected to bring better stability, smoother performance, and new development tools. This upgrade will also support the launch of Zone Kit Phase 2, expanding modding capabilities with advanced audio features, narrative tools for creating custom stories, and enhanced blueprint modification support. According to GSC Game World, this shift could slightly impact the timeline for other updates, but the performance gains are considered worth the risk.

Beyond the engine change, players can expect a host of gameplay and quality-of-life updates. These include new anomalies, fresh missions “from old and new friends,” an extended day/night cycle, and a new weather scenario.

Combat systems are also getting tweaks, with A-Life updates improving NPC and mutant AI, along with balance adjustments. The game will introduce night vision devices, binoculars, and reworks for stamina, energy drinks, and loot stashes.

A Master difficulty preset, immersive display mode, updated equipment UI with protection stats, and a local save backup restoration option are also on the list.

For fans of customization, the roadmap promises more UI improvements and better mod compatibility. The team is also teasing a Discord Holiday Event, though details remain under wraps.

In addition to PC updates, STALKER 2 is set to launch on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 5 Pro in Q4 2025.

STALKER 2 Q3 and Q4 2025 roadmap (Credit: GSC Game World)