Guide to Locating Artifacts in Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl

In the unpredictable environment of Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl, artifacts play a vital role in enhancing gameplay and survival. These unique items come with both benefits and drawbacks, influencing your character’s abilities as you navigate through the challenges of the Zone.

Understanding Artifacts in Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl

Artifact in Stalker 2 — Screenshot by Prima Games

Artifacts resemble stones and provide various positive and negative effects when equipped. While utilizing multiple artifacts can boost your defenses against different environmental hazards, it might also weaken your resistance to certain harmful effects, such as radiation.

These artifacts can be discovered around Anomalies—unpredictable phenomena scattered throughout the Zone. Caution is crucial, as approaching these anomalies can result in damage. However, gaining access to artifacts is essential for survival in the harsh terrain of Stalker 2.

Acquiring Artifacts in Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl

To locate artifacts effectively, players must utilize the Echo Scanner, a device introduced during the game’s tutorial. This scanner is essential for detecting artifacts in your vicinity, and without it, you won’t be able to find these hidden treasures.

Once you understand how to operate the Echo Scanner, head towards an Anomaly, as artifacts are typically found in their proximity. It’s advisable to ensure that you are well-equipped before entering these hazardous locations.

To activate the Echo Scanner, press 7 on your Keyboard or select it from the Weapon Wheel. A blue light on the scanner will indicate your distance from the Anomaly, with the light blinking faster and the accompanying beeping intensifying as you approach.

Finding an Artifact — Screenshot by Prima Games

When you are close enough to the Anomaly, an artifact will emerge from the ground, and the blue indicator will fade. At this point, you can interact with the artifact to collect it and add it to your inventory.

Where to Find Artifacts in Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl

Anomaly in Stalker 2 — Image via GSC Game World

Artifacts are most commonly found near Anomalies scattered across the Zone. Typically, each Anomaly will harbor at least one artifact. Although it’s possible to encounter some artifacts outside the Zone, these instances are uncommon, and any found will likely be of inferior quality.

Additionally, players can acquire artifacts by completing specific quests. The initial artifact can be obtained through the quest titled There and Back Again, which requires you to locate an artifact while departing from the mobile lab. Numerous other main and side quests will similarly lead to artifact rewards.

Equipping Artifacts in Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl

Once you acquire your first artifact, you can equip it through your Inventory menu. Simply select the artifact you wish to use and drag it to the Artifact slot within your gear’s Equipment window.

Initially, your starting armor will only allow for the attachment of one artifact. Players can expand the number of artifact slots by upgrading their armor or acquiring better armor types that provide additional slots.

Upgrading Your Echo Scanner in Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl

If you find the default detection capabilities of your Echo Scanner insufficient, you can enhance its performance by obtaining a better version. To do this, complete one of the following side quests:

A Sign of Hope – This quest involves decision-making, but upon completion, you’ll receive an enhanced detector that indicates both direction and distance to nearby artifacts.
Budmo! – In this quest, you can locate an upgraded detector inside a stash near the power transmission pylon. This improved device can measure distances up to 100 meters.

This guide covers key aspects of finding and equipping artifacts in Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl. For additional insights on game mechanics, check out guides on adjusting the field of view (FOV) or fast traveling within this immersive experience.

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