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

Ukrainian studio behind Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl claims to have been hacked by a group of Russians.

In a statement sent via the game’s official Twitter account, GSC Game World claimed that its account was hacked by a “community of a Russian social network” using a “collective photo manipulation application” and is threatening to hold the data for ransom.

According to the studio, the attack could lead to hackers leaking images and possible spoilers from the game.

As such, it asks players to ignore any images or videos that leak before the game’s release.

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

“We have endured continuous cyber attacks for over a year now. We have faced extortion, acts of aggression, hackers, attempts to hurt players and fans, and attempts to damage the development process or our company’s reputation.

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

It adds: “In the event of leaks, we ask that you refrain from viewing or sharing information about Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl.

“Outdated and unfinished materials can dilute the impression of the final idea we put into the game.

“We encourage you to stay patient and wait for the official release to get the best possible experience. We think you’ll love it.”

GSC Game World, which operated in Kyiv before the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, has since Partially transferred to the Czech Republic.

Other GSC Game World staff have joined volunteer activities in Ukraine or the country’s armed forces, including several employees Development journal published last yearwhich showed how the war has affected the team and its work.

Originally, which is scheduled for release in April 2022, the game has already been delayed a few times. As of June 2022, it’s slated for release in 2023, though it’s not yet clear when.