STALKER 2: Dev Builds Leak Online, But Remain Unplayable Due to Encryption
Today, it was revealed that multiple STALKER 2 dev builds were leaked online and subsequently shared around. However, due to intense encryption on the files, they are effectively unplayable. This incident is being dubbed a mistake by GSC Game World’s IT department, with leaked files ranging up to 193 GB in size.
It is important to note that the claims of this being an internal slip-up are based on online comments and have not yet been confirmed. However, with log files, builds, seeders, and network data readily available, all signs point to this being a mistake made from the inside.
A Tough Year for GSC Game World
In March, GSC Game World faced threats from Russian hackers attempting to blackmail the firm. The hackers claimed they could release 30 GB of STALKER 2 data if GSC Game World didn’t “rethink its attitude towards players from Belarus and Russia.” The deadline passed, GSC didn’t give in to the demands, and nothing happened – until now. While it’s not believed that this leak is the work of those hackers, it’s being considered a coincidence until confirmation is received.
Additionally, in February 2023, GSC announced a price increase for the ‘Ultimate Edition’ of STALKER 2 amidst an uneasy financial climate, which was met with some dissent.
For now, it appears that the leaked STALKER 2 dev builds are inaccessible due to their standard encryption, rendering them unplayable.
STALKER 2 is expected to release in December 2023, launching on PC and Xbox Series X|S, and will be available on day one on Xbox Game Pass.
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