New Xbox Partner Preview introduces the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Legends of the Zone Trilogy

In a surprising announcement during the latest XBOX Partner Preview broadcast, GSC Game World launched the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Legends of the Zone Trilogy for XBOX One and Xbox Series X|S. Available today, this bundle includes all three iconic games from the original S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Trilogy: Shadow of Chernobyl, Clear Sky, and Call of Pripyat. Alternatively, players can purchase each game individually. The team at GSC Game World, in collaboration with Mataboo, has faithfully ported every element from the original PC games to the console, ensuring that Xbox gamers can delve into the immersive universe of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. before the highly anticipated release of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl on September 5, 2024, which will be available on Game Pass.

Adapting these hardcore PC games for an Xbox controller presented its challenges. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. is known for its blend of genres, including horror, first-person shooter, exploration, and immersive sim. Therefore, it was crucial for the team to ensure a seamless transition to console. We spoke with GSC Game World PR Specialist Zakhar Bocharov to learn more about the process of bringing these cult-classic titles to Xbox and the innovative design and UI adjustments that were made.

Bocharov explained that the key priorities were centered around adapting the experience for consoles as a whole, including native controller support for console interfaces. The team developed a weapon selection wheel and made changes to the aiming system and menu navigation to accommodate the Xbox controller. While optimizing the gaming experience, they also aimed to preserve the unique gameplay loop and the feeling of overcoming The Zone’s iconic and hostile environment.

Bringing S.T.A.L.K.E.R. to consoles has been a long-awaited goal for GSC Game World, and their collaboration with Mataboo made it possible. Despite the delayed release of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2, the decision was made to release S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Legends of the Zone Trilogy in early 2024, allowing players ample time to complete the original games before diving into the sequel. Familiarity with the previous events and characters will enhance the enjoyment of certain story moments, nods, and Easter eggs in S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2.

The version available today for Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S closely resembles the original PC experience. Xbox One players can finally immerse themselves in the franchise, while Xbox Series X|S users can enjoy a high-fidelity mode through backward compatibility. Later this year, a patch will be released for the Xbox Series X|S version, introducing additional graphical enhancements and features. Mod support via mod.io will also be available, although it will be rolled out at a later date.

Bocharov emphasized that these releases mark the closing of a long-existing gap, making all the games from the series available on all intended platforms. The team’s dedication to bringing these iconic PC games to consoles is evident, especially considering the challenges they faced due to the ongoing War in Ukraine, relocations, and cyberattacks. Despite these obstacles, GSC Game World persevered to ensure that S.T.A.L.K.E.R.’s legacy extends to a wider audience and secures its place as a truly Ukrainian franchise.

For those new to the world of S.T.A.L.K.E.R., Bocharov advises embracing the game’s unique blend of genres and engaging gameplay loop. He acknowledges that S.T.A.L.K.E.R. may not be an everyday gaming experience due to its hardcore nature but assures players that once they become immersed in this world, they will find themselves attached to it for years to come.

To embark on your journey into The Zone, you can purchase S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Legends of the Zone Trilogy today on the Xbox Store for Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S.