Stalker 2 studio claims it’s been hacked by Russians, asks players to ignore leaks

The Ukrainian studio behind Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl claims it’s been hacked by a group of Russians.

In a statement posted via the game’s official Twitter account, GSC Game World claimed that “a community from a Russian social network” hacked into its account on a “collective work-with-images application” and is threatening to hold the data to ransom.

According to the studio, the attack may result in the hackers leaking images and potential spoilers from the game.

As such, it is asking players to ignore any images or videos that leak ahead of the game’s release.

“They are threatening to use the obtained data for blackmail and intimidation,” the statement reads. “This is not the first attempt to hack and leak our data, including personal information.

“We have been enduring constant cyberattacks for more than a year now. We have faced blackmail, acts of agression, hacks, attempts to hurt players and fans, and efforts to damage the development process or the reputation of our company.

“We are a Ukrainian company and, like most Ukrainians, we have experienced many things that are much more terrifying – destroyed houses, ruined lives and the deaths of our loved ones. Attempts to blackmail or intimidate us are completely futile.”

It adds: “In the event of any leaks, we ask that you refrain fro watching or distribuing information about Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl.

“Outdated and work-in-progress materials may dilute the impression of the final idea that we have put into the game.

“We encourage you to stay patient and wait for the official release for the best experience possible. We believe that you will love it.”

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GSC Game World, which was based in Kiev prior to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, has since partially relocated to the Czech Republic.

Other GSC Game World staff have joined volunteering efforts in Ukraine or the country’s armed forces, including several employees featured in a development diary released last year, which showed how the war has impacted the team and its work.

Originally planned for release in April 2022, the game has already been delayed on a couple of occasions. As of June 2022, it’s been scheduled for release in 2023, although it’s still not clear when.