The STALKER series has consistently excelled in crafting immersive open worlds filled with rich lore and atmospheric tension. Players navigating this eerie landscape will encounter a diverse array of entities, including mutants, deadly anomalies, and rival factions, along with other stalkers striving to survive.
At the heart of the gameplay lies an engaging narrative that features multiple branching paths. As highlighted in a recent article, player decisions significantly influence the unfolding story. Additionally, the game is replete with side quests scattered throughout the Zone, offering players numerous opportunities for gaining currency and valuable equipment.
This guide highlights some of the best side quests in STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl, each notable for various fascinating aspects. Whether rewarding players with exceptional loot or leading them on wild adventures, these quests also involve challenging moral dilemmas. Pay attention to these standout side missions as you explore the Zone.
10 Warlock’s Debtor
Location: Zalissya
One of the initial side quests you will encounter is Warlock’s Debtor. Accepted from Warlock in Zalissya, this quest introduces players to a pivotal decision-making scenario. Successfully supporting Valik Lummox by climbing the adjacent water tower rewards you with a powerful scoped AKM 74S, making it invaluable early in your journey.
9 The Poppy Field
Location: Lesser Zone
Next, players can delve into The Poppy Field, characterized by its surreal and psychedelic phenomena. Initiated by conversing with Mityay in Zalissya, this quest tasks you with retrieving an ancient Orthodox icon. While occasionally frustrating due to teleportation challenges, the unique atmosphere is unparalleled. To maximize your rewards, consider both selling the icon to Pomor and subsequently betraying him to reclaim it.
8 Let’s go!
Location: Slag Heap
Budmo! is an intriguing side quest that encourages a more ruthless mindset, a valuable asset in the harsh realities of the Zone. Start this quest by speaking to a group of drunken men at the Slag Heap bar, who will direct you to fill three stashes with vodka. However, upon visiting these locations, you’ll discover excellent loot, leading to confrontations with your original quest companions.
7 No Honor Among Thieves
Location: Slag Heap
Another excellent early-side quest is No Honor Among Thieves, which presents players with opportunities for loot and is fraught with challenges. Begin by conversing with Huron, the weapons trader in Slag Heap. His request to retrieve a shipment soon escalates into a violent encounter with bandits, offering a chance to secure the rare Viper SMG by sparing Docent’s life after the fight.
6 Deceive The Deceiver
Location: Slag Heap
Explore the treacherous landscape of betrayal in Deceive The Deceiver. Speak with Zakhar at the Slag Heap to initiate this quest, which culminates in morally ambiguous choices regarding loyalty and betrayal. The tension and potential violence lead to an impactful conclusion, providing insight into the savage nature of the Zone.
5 The Mysterious Case
Location: Sultansk
The Mysterious Case may not be the most intricate of side missions, but it leads players into thrilling environments, including fierce battles on a cargo ship. After speaking with Sonya in Sultansk, the mystery of the case unfolds, providing a glimpse into the complex political dynamics within STALKER’s settlement communities.
4 Three Captains
Location: Sultansk
Following The Mysterious Case, you can embark on Three Captains, a multi-faceted quest rich with narrative depth. This mission, which intimately involves a meeting between key figures, allows you to exert significant influence over their fates from a sniper’s perspective, ultimately leading to various outcomes and monetary rewards.
3 In The Name of Science
Location: Ahroprom Factory
As one of the game’s most demanding quests, In The Name of Science will push players to traverse the far reaches of the Zone in search of electronic collars for a deranged scientist’s experiment. Each collar must be obtained through different methods, showcasing an engaging mix of combat, dialogue, and bribery.
2 On The Edge
Location: Zalissya
Located in Zalissya, this engaging side quest immerses players in a defense of humanity against an aggressive Monolithian force. The combat scenario feels reminiscent of a classic gunfight, making it an exhilarating experience that ties in seamlessly with the main story arc.
1 The Freedom Colosseum
Location: Fibers
The Freedom Colosseum is a series of combat-focused quests set within an arena in Rostok. As players progress through increasingly difficult rounds, they will accumulate substantial rewards. Completing this quest enhances your reputation, visibly changing interactions with fellow stalkers and vendors, who will treat you with newfound respect.
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