Stalker 2 Sets the Bar High with Handcrafted Open World and Unreal Engine 5
Stalker 2 is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious open-world games to date, with a map that spans over 60 square kilometers. Despite its massive size, the developers at GSC Game World are crafting every location by hand, forgoing procedural generation in favor of detailed, bespoke environments. Technical producer Evgeniy Kulik explained that this decision was driven by the team’s commitment to delivering a high-quality, immersive experience.
The game is being built using Unreal Engine 5, a cutting-edge engine that brings both opportunities and challenges for a project of this scale. According to Kulik, Stalker 2’s vast, geographically diverse world necessitated the development of custom tools for level designers and artists to bring the game to life. The team chose a handcrafted approach to ensure each location feels unique and memorable, from large regions to small villages.
While procedural generation was initially considered, GSC Game World ultimately decided it didn’t meet their high standards for gameplay and visual quality. The decision to handcraft every part of the game took considerable time and effort, but the developers are satisfied with the result, believing it will enhance the atmosphere and uniqueness of Stalker 2’s world.
The first substantial look at Stalker 2 came in a 35-minute video showcasing the Swamps region, a location familiar to fans of the original games. GSC Game World has emphasized that it wants to create an “authentic” Stalker experience, building anticipation among players ahead of the game’s launch on November 20.
