GSC Game World, the acclaimed developer based in Kyiv, Ukraine, has thrilling news for fans of the iconic S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series. They've announced the release of the S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Legends of the Zone Trilogy - Enhanced Edition, set to launch on May 20 for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X and S. This next-gen upgrade promises to breathe new life into the beloved trilogy, featuring enhanced versions of Shadow of Chornobyl (2007), Clear Sky (2008), and Call of Prypiat (2009).
Players can expect a comprehensive overhaul for each title, including stunning visual upgrades, optimized performance for next-gen consoles, and an expanded modding ecosystem. GSC Game World is committed to rewarding its loyal fanbase: owners of the original trilogy on Xbox Series X and S or PS5 will receive the Enhanced Edition of the corresponding games at no additional cost. For PC gamers, those who own the original S.T.A.L.K.E.R. games will also receive the Enhanced Editions for free, while buyers of the Enhanced Editions will get the original versions included. The trilogy can be purchased as a bundle for $39.99 or individually at $19.99 per title.
While the excitement builds, it's important to note that cross-platform saves between PC and consoles won't be supported, meaning your progress will remain specific to the platform you're playing on. On the console front, S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Legends of the Zone Trilogy - Enhanced Edition will offer multiple frame-rate options on PS5 and Xbox Series X and S, including standard modes at 30 FPS and 60 FPS, as well as specialized modes targeting 40 FPS and up to 120 FPS, available exclusively on displays with VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) technology.
Console players will also enjoy a variety of graphical and performance modes, tailored to different display capabilities. For Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, and PlayStation 5 Pro, options include Quality (native 4K/30 FPS), Balanced (upscaled 4K/40 FPS), Performance (upscaled 4K/60 FPS), and Ultra Performance (upscaled 2K/120 FPS). Meanwhile, Xbox Series S users can choose between Quality (native 2K/30 FPS), Balanced (upscaled 2K/40 FPS), and Performance (1080p/60 FPS). Both the Quality Balanced mode and the Ultra Performance mode require VRR-compatible displays.
The visual enhancements across all platforms are impressive, featuring enhanced lighting with godrays, screen space reflections, and global illumination for a more immersive atmosphere. You'll see upscaled textures and more detailed 3D models for NPCs, weapons, and environments, along with advanced shaders for water and wetness effects, upgraded skyboxes for a dynamic world, 4K pre-rendered cinematics for dramatic storytelling, and improved weapon FOV for better combat visibility.
Console-specific enhancements include keyboard and mouse support on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, offering a tailored gaming experience. Additionally, the integration of mod.io (https://mod.io/) allows players to create and share mods across PC and consoles, fostering a vibrant modding community.
For PC gamers, the S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Legends of the Zone Trilogy - Enhanced Edition offers several exciting features. The trilogy is optimized for Steam Deck, ensuring you can take your adventures on the go. With Steam Workshop integration, you'll have access to a vast library of user-generated mods. Cloud saves provide seamless progress backup across devices, and full gamepad support delivers a console-like experience on PC.
GSC Game World, fresh off the success of last year's S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, continues to push boundaries and innovate, even amidst challenging times. To learn more about how S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 has transformed the studio's journey amid the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, click [ttpp]here[ttpp].
