When diving into Stalker 2, the Zone can be intimidating, especially for newcomers. It’s chaotic, tough, and full of surprises. Starting strong isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for survival. Here’s how you can give yourself an edge from the moment you enter the Zone.
Table of Contents
Begin with Zalissya (Zissa)
Your journey kicks off in Zalissya, a key settlement and your first safe haven. Head to the bar. Look for Warlock—a helpful NPC. He offers a side quest that rewards you with the Valik Lox AKM-74S. This rifle is perfect for beginners. With its versatility, you can use it both for close combat and as a marksman rifle thanks to its long-range scope. Completing Warlock’s tasks is also a reliable way to earn currency and supplies early on.
Meet Your Support Team
Outside the bar, a guide near a car will introduce you to Hamster (the trader) and a technician. Traders like Hamster provide essential gear, while technicians repair and upgrade weapons and armor. Keeping your equipment in top shape is vital, as worn-out weapons can jam or lose accuracy at the worst times.
Loot Early, But Strategically
Near Zalissya, complete the “Seek and You Shall Find” quest. This leads to stashes with valuable armor upgrades. For example, find a protective chest piece by climbing onto a truck and dropping into a building via the roof. Better gear early on makes later encounters much less punishing.
Explore Northwest to the Pole Depot
The Pole Depot is a treasure trove. It’s northwest of Zalissya, teeming with ammo, medkits, and more. Be cautious; enemies often patrol the area. After clearing them, search thoroughly—many supplies are hidden underground or in crates. Smash crates for extra loot like grenades or even vodka, which can be traded or used in emergencies.
Manage Your Loadout Wisely
Balance your weapons to fit your playstyle. Early game, an AKM-74U with a holographic sight can be more effective than a basic SMG. Carry only ammo you’ll use to avoid weighing yourself down. Unload extra guns for ammunition or repair them for personal use or trade.
Secure Your First Artifact: The Weird Ball
Artifacts provide unique benefits. Start with the Weird Ball near the Bulba anomaly east of Zalissya. Use vehicles as cover to avoid being sucked into Bulba’s pull. This artifact reduces bullet damage when standing still—perfect for defensive firefights.
Keep Your Health in Check
Bleeding can be fatal if ignored. Bandages stop it but restore minimal health, while medkits heal significantly but don’t stop bleeding. Always carry both, and use them wisely. Food and drinks like sausages or energy drinks also boost your stamina for tough encounters.
Tips for Long-Term Success
- Regularly visit technicians to repair gear before it’s too damaged.
- Always check stashes and dead enemies for loot.
- Sell broken weapons after unloading them to free inventory space and earn currency.
- Build a balanced loadout, combining weapons for close, medium, and long-range encounters.
With these tips, you’ll master Stalker 2’s brutal environment and find your rhythm in the Zone. Stay vigilant, adapt quickly, and remember—the Zone rewards the prepared.