GSC Game World has officially rolled out Patch 1.5 for S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, introducing new weapons, gameplay mechanics, and long-awaited official mod support. Titled the “Guns and Looting” update, this is one of the most comprehensive updates the game has received since its launch.
Two new weapons have been added to the game’s growing arsenal. The Three-Line Rifle, a bolt-action sniper weapon, offers players extended range and precision for engaging enemies from a distance. Lightweight and reliable, it is suited for long-range encounters in the Zone’s open environments. Alongside it is the Kora Pistol, a slower-firing sidearm that compensates with high impact damage. Though its magazine is limited, the Kora delivers powerful single shots. A rare version, known as the Night Stalker, is also available for those willing to search for it.
The update also expands the game’s looting system. Players can now collect and trade mutant parts from defeated creatures. These include body parts such as eyes, tusks, and tentacles from enemies like bloodsuckers and flesh-eaters. The harvested items can be exchanged with non-playable characters (NPCs) for in-game coupons. To do so effectively, players must first meet with a character named Malachite, who provides guidance on extracting the parts in a condition suitable for trade.
Patch 1.5 also introduces the Zone Kit, a set of official modding tools now accessible through the Epic Games Store. This marks the beginning of official mod support for S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2. With this toolkit, players can create and modify animations, weapons, game mechanics, and environmental features. Mods can be shared through mod.io and Steam Workshop, depending on the user’s platform. GSC Game World has confirmed that this is only the first phase of modding tools, with additional features planned for future updates.
Other additions in the patch include further improvements to the A-Life simulation system, which manages AI behavior in the game. A new anomaly called the Electric Water Tornado has been introduced, along with new vehicle models scattered throughout the map. Inventory management has also been refined with an expanded stash window and newly designed ammo icons for easier navigation. The reload mechanic has been updated to allow seamless continuation after interruptions.
For players using the Ukrainian voiceover, the latest patch brings localized lip sync to all non-pre-rendered cutscenes, improving the visual and audio experience during key story sequences.
To coincide with the update, the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. franchise will participate in the Steam Summer Sale starting June 26. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl will be offered at a 30% discount, while S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Legends of the Zone Enhanced Edition will receive a 15% discount.
Patch 1.5 is now available across all supported platforms. GSC Game World has encouraged players to explore the new content and stay tuned for additional updates as development continues.
