STALKER 2 Update 1.0.3 Brings Extensive Crash and Bug Fixes

New Patch for STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl Released

GSC Game World has rolled out an exciting new patch for STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl. The latest update, version 1.0.3, focuses on improving the game stability by addressing crashes and various bugs. This release continues the efforts started with previous updates, 1.0.1 and 1.0.2. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive overview of the changes included in this patch.

Crashes and Memory Management Enhancements

Resolved multiple instances of ACCESS_VIOLATION_ERROR.
Addressed issues leading to LowLevelFatalError crashes.

Control Adjustments for Enhanced Gameplay

In response to community feedback, we’ve made several adjustments aiming to improve input responsiveness for players using a keyboard and mouse:

Mouse smoothing has been disabled by default.
Mouse acceleration is also disabled by default.

The default mouse sensitivity settings have been updated to provide a more consistent experience for users:

Camera sensitivity is now set to 25%.
Aim sensitivity is adjusted to 15%.

Main and Side Missions Tweaks

Fixed a bug where [spoiler] could pursue the player outside [spoiler] in the In Search of Past Glory mission.
Resolved an issue where NPCs [spoiler] would perish when attempting to enter a building during On the Edge.
Fixed the despawning problem of [spoiler] when trying to loot a collar during the In the Name of Science mission.
Corrected a potential lockout scenario for players in the Dangerous Liaisons mission.
Resolved hostility issues with [spoiler] in the King of the Hill mission.
Fixed the despawn glitch occurring after dialogue in the bunker during the A Heavy Burden mission.
Resolved NPC despawn issues post-completion of the Legends of the Zone mission.

AI Improvements

Fixed a bug causing mutant bodies to stretch after being shot with an automatic weapon.
Addressed issues where NPCs would obstruct doors in the Back to the Slag Heap mission.

Gameplay Balance Adjustments

Fixed an issue where [spoiler] did not sell certain types of ammunition.

Save Game Reliability

Rectified problems regarding missing player saves following a hard reboot of Xbox or PC.

Game Performance and Reception

STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl has exceeded one million units sold, although it’s not clear how many more copies are needed to recover the extensive development costs incurred over the years. For a more detailed analysis, check out our complete review here.

Final Thoughts on STALKER 2

This title serves as a compelling successor to its predecessor, embodying both its strengths and weaknesses. The game’s intent remains unwavering: it’s a challenging experience that can test the patience of players, yet it delivers a singular adventure that’s rare in the gaming landscape. Although players may encounter bugs and balancing issues, these should not deter enthusiastic gamers from diving into this engrossing world. If you appreciate open-world experiences and thrill-seeking gameplay, STALKER 2 promises to be an engaging journey worth exploring.