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Understanding Anomalies in STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl
In STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl, anomalies are a central part of the game’s unique environment, greatly influencing gameplay. These anomalies are the result of radiation in the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone, leading to an array of bizarre occurrences such as odd weather patterns, objects that seem to materialize out of nowhere, and disruptions of the natural laws of physics. They can be both amusing and unsettling, but regardless of their nature, all anomalies can be lethal.
Players who are familiar with the earlier STALKER titles will likely recognize some of the anomalies from previous games. However, STALKER 2 brings forth several new anomalies that players must be cautious of. Fortunately, each anomaly has a way to be managed. Here’s a rundown of these anomalies and tips on how to approach them.
Every Anomaly in STALKER 2 & How to Deal With Them
Springboard
Springboards are the first and likely the most common type of anomaly you’ll encounter in STALKER 2. They appear as shimmering spheres, often hovering a short distance above the ground. Walking into one will push you back and reduce your health. You can either disrupt them by tossing bolts at them or simply avoid them.
Fruit Punch
This playful name refers to the brightly colored acid pools scattered throughout the game. Stepping into them will cause continuous damage until you exit. There’s no way to disrupt Fruit Punch, so it’s best to navigate around it, leap over it, or use healing items to mitigate the damage.
Be wary: Standing in proximity to Fruit Punch for too long can cause your radiation level to rise. Ensure you have alcoholic beverages (preferably vodka) handy to counteract radiation effects.
Whirligig & Vortex
These anomalies are reminiscent of real-life dust devils and manifest as small whirlwinds. Engaging with them leads to being temporarily immobilized by wind. Whirligigs and Vortexes can inflict significant damage but can be halted with a thrown bolt. It’s usually best to stay vigilant and avoid these rather than confront them head-on.
Ball Lightning
These orbs of electricity move along a designated path, making them different from other anomalies. Navigate through their area by timing your movements well—wait until they pass before crossing their trajectory.
Glass Shards
Before you even spot the Glass Shards anomaly, you’ll likely hear it. It consists of sharp glass fragments floating in the air, accompanied by a soft ringing sound. If you venture through one, you’ll start to bleed, which can lead to significant health loss over time. Your best option is again to sidestep them.
Burners & Comets
Burners are easily identified by the flames shooting up from the ground. Approaching one will ignite it, so simply keep your distance. In contrast, Comets are more dangerous; their flames will actively pursue you. If you find yourself targeted, dart away quickly; they’re relatively slow and can be outrun.
Electro
Electro anomalies mirror the behavior of Burners but inflict damage through electric shocks instead of flames. Your strategy remains the same: avoid them.
Bubbles
These anomalies take the form of large clusters of floating bubbles that drift toward you. Attacking them or throwing bolts will cause them to burst, releasing smaller bubbles that inflict poison damage. Maintain your distance and continue to throw bolts until they vanish.
Flashbang
Flashbangs drop quickly, exploding in a blinding flash that causes damage based on how close you are to the blast. Spot one? Turn and sprint away!
Bulba
This anomaly resembles a large, undulating bubble, often found hovering over water. If you get too close, it will pull you in, inflicting damage. The only way to escape is to run away. Be careful—if you’re drawn into the bubble, it’s an instant game over.
Navigating through these anomalies is crucial as many are found near valuable artifacts. By familiarizing yourself with their behaviors and responses, you can better survive your journey in STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl.
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