Stalker 2: Resolve Bunker Not Opening Issue in the Just Like the Good Old Days Mission

Overcoming the Bunker Door Bug in Stalker 2

Stalker 2 presents a vast and intricately designed open world, brimming with intertwined main and side quests that are deeply influenced by your decisions. Yet, amidst the excitement, players may encounter technical glitches that disrupt gameplay. A prominent issue occurs during the later stages of the game, specifically where players find themselves unable to open the bunker door to speak with Professor Lodochka.

This guide aims to provide three effective methods to resolve this bug, ensuring that your gaming progress in Stalker 2 remains uninterrupted.

When Does the Bunker Door Bug Occur in Stalker 2?

Picking up the Emitter during Just Like the Good Old Days main mission — Image Credit: Prima Games

The bug typically surfaces during the “Just Like the Good Old Days”mission, where players receive an optional task to converse with Professor Lodochka. This opportunity arises once you have successfully retrieved the Emitter from the Noonstriders’ base by maneuvering through its ventilation system.

Your alignment during the “Wishful Thinking”mission—whether you chose the Noonstriders or the Ward faction—will dictate the status of safe zones across the game, including Professor Lodochka’s bunker, which may go into lockdown.

Despite the quest marker pointing towards the professor inside the bunker, players frequently find the door remains locked. This unresponsive door feels more like a glitch than a designed feature, especially during this significant part of the storyline.

How to Fix the Locked Bunker Door Issue in Stalker 2

Bunker door not opening fix guide during Just Like Good Old Days mission — Image Credit: Prima Games

The “Just Like the Good Old Days”mission, along with several other main quests, has been known to experience bugs. Although an official patch is anticipated to rectify these concerns, there are some temporary workarounds that players can explore. These approaches have proven effective for others, and may likely assist you as well!

1. Bypass the Conversation with Professor Lodochka

An Invisible Threat main mission location on the map — Image Credit: Prima Games

Engaging with Professor Lodochka is optional in the “Just Like the Good Old Days”mission. After obtaining the Emitter, proceed to unlock the “An Invisible Threat”mission, which requires you to deliver the Emitter to Scar.

To check if “An Invisible Threat”is active, simply open your PDA and access the Journal. If the mission is listed, you can track your progress.

An Invisible Threat main mission — Image Credit: Prima Games

Upon tracking the mission, you will see two yellow markers: one for the optional dialogue with Professor Lodochka, and another leading you to the Chemical Plant for the “An Invisible Threat”task.

Be prepared for a long journey from the Noonstriders’ Shelter base to your next destination in the western part of Stalker 2’s map.

Once you arrive at the Chemical Plant and encounter Scar, a cutscene will play, concluding the “Just Like the Good Old Days”quest automatically.

2. Reload a Previous Save File

Talk to Professor Lodochka optional task — Image Credit: Prima Games

Stalker 2’s save system allows for multiple file creation. If you have an earlier save from before escaping the SIRCAA facility, consider reloading this file and reattempting the “Just Like the Good Old Days”mission.

Bear in mind that this method isn’t guaranteed to resolve the bunker door issue. While the previous workaround is more dependable, reloading a save can still be worth a shot.

3. Utilize UETools for a Quick Fix

If you are playing Stalker 2 on PC, UETools from Nexus Mods can serve as a viable solution to bypass the bug entirely. Follow these steps:

Download and install UETools from Nexus Mods.
Launch the game and access the console by pressing /.
Type UETools_Ghost to activate ghost mode.
This will allow you to walk through the bunker door to interact with Professor Lodochka, completing your task without requiring the door to open.
Finish by entering UETools_Walk to deactivate ghost mode and return to standard operation.

This solution enables players to circumvent the bug and accomplish the objective without waiting for updates or dealing with additional troubleshooting.

For further insights on optimizing your game experience, explore our additional guides, including tactics for defeating Poltergeist enemies, strategies in the King of the Hill mission, and a comprehensive list of main and side missions in Stalker 2.

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