Stalker Trilogy Gets Free 4K Remaster for Original Owners: Return to the Zone in Enhanced Glory
Prepare to brave the anomalies once again! The iconic Stalker trilogy – Shadow of Chernobyl, Clear Sky, and Call of Pripyat – is receiving a significant upgrade. GSC Game World has announced the Stalker Legends of the Zone Trilogy Enhanced Edition, a fully remastered and optimized collection launching next week. But the best part? If you already own the original games on Steam, these enhanced editions are yours for free.
This announcement follows a tease from GSC Game World about bringing "next-gen patches" to the classic Stalker games. While details were initially scarce, the studio has now revealed the extent of the enhancements. This is fantastic news as players are anxiously awaiting the launch of Stalker 2 in 2024 and can revisit or experience the older entries without the dated visuals.
So, what can you expect from the Enhanced Edition? Think visual overhaul: improved lighting with godrays, screen-space reflections, and global illumination. Upscaled textures and detailed 3D models breathe new life into the environments, characters, and weapons. New water shaders and improved skyboxes contribute to a more immersive experience. PC players can even crank up the field of view to soak in the Zone's eerie beauty in greater detail.
GSC Game World confirms that the Enhanced Edition boasts full 4K resolution and support for ultra-wide monitors. Optimization ensures Steam Deck compatibility, allowing you to stalk anomalies on the go. Get ready for seamless integration with the Steam Workshop for easy mod access, cloud saves, and gamepad support.
According to the developers, the remaster includes "New lighting, reflections, textures, shaders, and 4K cinematics [that] bring the Zone to life like never before." Much like Stalker 2, the game titles are being updated to reflect the Ukrainian spelling of Chornobyl and Prypiat.
The Stalker Legends of the Zone Trilogy Enhanced Edition will launch on May 20th on Steam. The games can also be purchased individually for $19.99 each, or as a bundle for $39.99.
The original Stalker games are known for their challenging yet rewarding experience. The initial releases often suffered from bugs, so with the enhanced versions, GSC Game World has an opportunity to provide a smooth and stable experience right out of the gate.
Are you excited to revisit the Zone with these enhanced editions? Which Stalker game are you most looking forward to playing again? Share your thoughts and memories in the comments below!
