Stalker 2's first DLC is in "active development," and we could hear more soon

Stalker 2 didn't land, so much as it crumpled at launch. GSC Game World's uber-punishing shooter has more than felt the weight of crippling technical issues, and a gameplay experience that didn't quite live up to its vision. Nonetheless, it's still one of the most impressive survival sims out there, and the studio has worked tirelessly to bring it up to scratch. We've already received a comprehensive roadmap that, if properly executed, will bring the best out of it. Now, the developer's confirmed that its first DLC is "in active development." By the sounds of things, it won't be long until GSC divulges the deets.

Stalker 2 feels like it's on a similar path to CI Games' Lords of the Fallen. Despite PK awarding it a handsome 8/10 in his Stalker 2 review, marking it as one of 2024's best FPS games, it's no secret that it's had more than its fair share of bugs, among other issues. In recent months, GSC has pushed out massive updates. Some have fixed hundreds of crashes, while others have focused on improving its dynamic A-Life AI system. It's been a grand undertaking to say the least, and the game's all the better for it.

Earlier this month, GSC published its plans for the rest of the year. From small additions like binoculars and night vision devices, to new missions, a more challenging difficulty, and a full engine update, there are many tantalizing treats on the horizon. While it doesn't specify DLC on the docket, we do know that there'll be two full-fledged expansions; the first of which we now know is very much in the works.

Speaking to FRVR at Gamescom, GSC notes that the first of these "quite impressively-sized add-ons" is "in the active phase of development." Though it doesn't look like we'll be seeing it until next year, the dev is "so eager to share more, but you should wait just a little bit longer" for further details. By the sounds of things, we can expect a proper update soon. I'd posit we'll get some sort of sneak peek at The Game Awards, though there's every chance GSC will drop a teaser ahead of December.

Additionally, GSC reiterates that it won't be slowing down on its patch cadence. "Stalker 2 continues receiving regular updates on all platforms - since the release, we [have] shipped five big patches and numerous smaller ones," it says. "You can expect this to continue in the future."

If you've yet to delve into Stalker 2's spooky survival hit, then read up on the Stalker 2 weapons and Stalker 2 artifacts ahead of your big Chernobyl-based adventure. Conversely, if you're taking a break, then check out more of the best survival games you can play now.

How've you fared in Stalker 2? Let us know how you're getting on with the game after its flurry of updates over in our community Discord server.