After years of anticipation, Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl bursts onto the scene with its opening mission, There and Back Again. Tasked with scanning a rare Artifact acquired through a trusted contact, you step into the haunting and unpredictable Zone. This guide will walk you through the essentials of Stalker 2 and help you complete this immersive prologue.
Crossing the Perimeter
As you take control of Skif, you'll find yourself in the Lesser Zone, the gateway for many entering this mysterious world. Follow the on-screen prompts to familiarize yourself with movement and mechanics. When you're ready, make your way north to the perimeter wall. Explore the area thoroughly—hidden boxes and medical supplies nearby can give you an early advantage.
Entering the Sewer Tunnel
Navigate down the slope to the left, crouching under debris as you proceed along the linear path. Along the way, collect Medkits, which will be invaluable for health restoration. Use your knife to remove wooden planks blocking your way, and pick up loot scattered through the area. When faced with a padlocked door, simply shoot or strike it to proceed further into the sewers.
Avoiding Anomalies in the Tunnel
Keep your flashlight on as you enter the dimly lit sewer. Here, you’ll encounter your first Electro Anomaly—a surge of energy that patrols the tunnel. Avoid it by timing your movements carefully, and loot any bodies you find along the way. At the tunnel's end, choose the right path to gather more supplies before exiting into the open air.
Reaching the Mobile Lab in There and Back Again Mission
Consult your map to locate the Mobile Lab northeast of your position. On your way, explore Rudnya-Veresnya for loot, including an upgraded AKM-47S. Be prepared to face rats and larger mutants; switch between your weapons for efficiency. Climb over obstacles and head to the Mobile Lab, where you’ll find an entrance on the roof.
Investigating the Mobile Lab
Inside, you’ll discover that something has gone terribly wrong. Loot Nehoda’s body for the Echo Detector, a vital tool for tracking Artifacts. Restore power to the lab and copy data from a nearby laptop. This will prepare you for the next phase of your mission: locating an Artifact in an Anomalous Field.
Finding the Artifact and Surviving a Mutant Encounter
Using the Echo Detector, locate an Artifact in an acidic pool outside the lab. Beware of an invisible Mutant that will attack after retrieving it. Retreat into the lab and aim for shimmering movements to take the creature down.
Scanning the Artifact: Points 1, 2, and 3
Begin scanning at designated points, starting near the Old Wall. Each scan triggers new challenges, including anomalies and hostile bandits. Use cover to handle enemies effectively, and loot their camps for supplies. Continue through a cave and onto the final scanning point near a Cabin. While the location is correct, the sequence concludes with Skif being knocked unconscious, setting the stage for the adventure to come.
From avoiding anomalies to engaging enemies and uncovering hidden treasures, this prologue sets the tone for the challenging yet rewarding journey that lies ahead in Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl.
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