In the expansive and treacherous world of STALKER 2, danger lurks around every corner. The Zone is inhabited by all sorts of lethal threats, from bands of well-equipped NPC stalkers to otherworldly anomalies. However, what poses the greatest risk are the mutants that roam freely, preying on stalkers and each other without mercy.
STALKER 2 brings a total of 16 different mutant types to the table. These creatures include what once were human beings, now twisted by radiation and psi-waves, as well as wild animals that have grown stronger and more resilient due to mysterious mutations. Facing off against these adversaries is no easy task, yet with the right arsenal and a solid game plan, you can emerge victorious. Drawing on my years of experience with the STALKER series and having spent over 70 hours in STALKER 2, I’ve compiled a guide bursting with strategies, weapon recommendations, and more insights to help you take these beasts down.
### STALKER 2: How to tackle rat swarms
You might wonder if the rats in The Zone are mutated. Either way, they’re deadly when in groups. You’ll encounter them pretty early, and while a single rat isn’t much, a swarm can be the end of you if they close in. Don’t waste bullets on them; climb onto a crate or pipe and toss a grenade into the horde. This should decimate the lot of them, and if not, another explosive will finish the job.
### STALKER 2: Dealing with rodents
Rodents are basically large rats hopping on two legs, low-threat mutants you’ll find early on. Mostly appearing in packs of 6-10, they attack by leaping towards you, aiming to bite and scratch. Their low health makes them easy targets for a pistol—it’s quick and efficient, saving your pricier rifle or shotgun ammunition for more formidable foes.
### STALKER 2: Confronting blind dogs
Blind dogs resemble normal dogs, but they attack in numbers and with swiftness, trying to encircle and bite. Listen for their barks—an ominous heads-up before they rush. Backpedal while shooting with a pistol or SMG. Rifles and shotguns work too, but try to avoid using double barrels like the Boomstick, as their slow reload can leave you vulnerable if surrounded.
### STALKER 2: Taking out fleshes
These grotesque pig mutants have distinctive insect-like legs used to cause harm. They’re stronger than blind dogs but less agile. They move in small herds and can pounce across surprising distances. Use the same distancing tactics as with blind dogs, being mindful of their leaping ability, and aim to keep them at bay.
### STALKER 2: Battling boars
Boars mimic wild swine with their bulk and aggressive demeanor. Charging in groups, they rush you directly. Dodge their assaults by sprinting sideways and jumping away to avoid being knocked down. A trusty shotgun is your friend here, potent against these melee-centric threats.
### STALKER 2: Overcoming bloodsuckers
These fearsome mutants have tentacled faces, turn invisible, and pack a punch. They’re fast and tanky, attacking from stealth. Use your flashlight to track their shimmer in the dark, and blast them with a strong shotgun when they charge. Climbing to higher ground can provide brief relief for reloading or healing.
### STALKER 2: Vanquishing poltergeists
These oddities appear as electricity orbs, hurling objects at you telepathically. Close in swiftly and fire upon the electric sphere. Zigzag to avoid incoming projectiles, and either break through or circle around their defensive barriers. That’s the ticket for minimizing damage and dealing with these floating fiends.
### STALKER 2: Conquering zombies
Zombies are essentially brainwashed stalkers, barely human and highly instinctual. While they can still handle firearms, they’re slow and predictable. Just aim for the head—body shots only temporarily put them down. Take cover and pick them off one by one. Precision is key, especially when surrounded.
### STALKER 2: Defeating controllers
Controllers are humanoids with strong psi-attacks that disorient and damage through radiation. Use cover to interrupt their sight, and aim for headshots with a rifle. Stay out of their psi-waves’ reach, considering grenades if you’re struggling to close distance.
### STALKER 2: Overpowering burers
These mutants leverage telekinesis but are vulnerable when out of sight. Use cover to nullify their powers and capitalize on headshot opportunities. A sniper approach works wonders, but stay nimble to reclaim your weapon if it’s forcibly pulled away.
### STALKER 2: Tackling snorks
Snorks move on all fours, leaping towards you fiercely. Quick but frail, they fall to tactical shotgun or rifle fire. Keep on the move to make their leaps miss, maintaining distance when taking your shots.
### STALKER 2: Handling psy-dogs
Psy-dogs, with their illusory distractions, inspire chaos. Sprinting away or collaborating with nearby stalkers often does the trick. If you must fight, identify the real psy-dog and blast it down promptly.
### STALKER 2: Challenging cats (bayun)
These cunning feline mutants mimic cries for help to ensnare you. Approach carefully with your prime shotgun in hand, prepared to retreat to open ground for better combat advantage.
### STALKER 2: Dispatching mutated deer
These rare but formidable creatures summon and control other mutants. Prioritize the deer itself, taking it out swiftly with shotgun fire while dodging its summonings.
### STALKER 2: Facing off against chimera
Chimera are apex predators, incredibly tough and deadly. If you can’t outpace them, fight them like formidable snorks. Stuck positions can be exploited for safe hits, and while RPGs are powerful, they’re impractical unless you catch a chimera off-guard.
### STALKER 2: Contending with pseudogiants
Pseudogiants top the mutation scale in size and durability, charging forcefully and generating shockwaves. Run if you can, but if not, employ strategic kiting and heavy weapons like machine guns or RPGs from high ground.
STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl is now available on Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most thrilling Xbox and PC games this year. Whether you’re grabbing a deal at CDKeys or playing via Xbox Game Pass, brace yourself for an intense survival experience.
