Complete Guide to Unlocking All Endings in Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl

Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl features a complex narrative that branches in multiple directions, influencing the outcome of the game and leading to four distinct endings. While several choices impact the game’s progression, particularly in side quests, only specific decisions critically shape the final conclusions. Understanding these pivotal quests is essential for players who aim to unlock a particular ending.

An Overview of Endings and Key Choices in Stalker 2

To navigate the narrative successfully, players should pay close attention to the following essential quests:

Subtle Matter
Dangerous Liaisons
The Last Wish

Warning: Major spoilers for Stalker 2 ahead.

Ending 1: Strelok Takes Control

Strelok takes control of the Zone in Stalker 2 — Image courtesy of GSC Game World

Strelok is a legendary character in the Stalker universe, originally the protagonist of Shadow of Chernobyl. In Stalker 2, the possibility of Strelok taking control of the Zone presents one of the game’s most captivating conclusions. To achieve this ending, follow these choices:

Subtle Matter: When encountering Scar in Orbita Station, opt for “Life is for the living” to steer toward the Strelok ending.
Dangerous Liaisons: When confronted by Korshunov, the leader of The Ward, choose “Escape” to sidestep an alternate faction outcome.
The Last Wish: During the final confrontation in the Red Forest, selecting “Fire” will secure the Strelok ending.

Ending 2: The Ward Destroys the Zone

The Ward Ending in Stalker 2 — Image courtesy of GSC Game World

The Ward offers a somewhat rigid perspective on handling the Zone, yet their arguments can be compelling. In this ending, The Ward effectively dismantles the Zone, neutralizing its violent anomalies. However, this outcome raises concerns about governmental control thereafter. To trigger this ending:

Subtle Matter: When caught by Scar, choose “Life is for the living” to prevent triggering the Spark ending.
Dangerous Liaisons: Upon confrontation with Korshunov, select “I’m not your enemy” to align with The Ward’s agenda.

Ending 3: Scar and Spark Pursue the Shining

Scar, the leader of Spark, just before his ending in Stalker 2 — Image courtesy of GSC Game World

This ending diverges with Scar entering a pod that facilitates a dream state called the Shining. If you’re looking for an unconventional outcome, here’s how to achieve it:

Subtle Matter: Unlike previous endings, choose “Eternal Spring” during this quest to pursue the Shining narrative.
Dangerous Liaisons: Continue by selecting “Escape” to evade The Ward’s influence and align with Spark.

Ending 4: Kaimanov Completes Project Y

Kaimanov completes Project Y in Stalker 2 — Image courtesy of GSC Game World

This option is generally considered the least favorable ending, closely mirroring the Scar/Spark conclusion. The difference lies in how you respond during The Last Wish Quest:

The Last Wish: Confront the Doctor in the Red Forest and select “Lower the gun” to spare him and advance to the Kaimanov ending, which is particularly grim.

In summary, the decisions players make throughout Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl significantly affect the narrative’s direction and conclusions. By understanding pivotal choices in key quests, players can navigate towards their desired outcomes with confidence.

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