Stalker 2 developers ask fans to ignore leaks after being hacked with ransom
In a potential setback for a game over a decade in development, GSC Game World is determined to resist the hackers.
Stalker 2 developers GSC Game World have recently revealed that they recently experienced a ransomware hack that leaked one of their versions of the game.
We will share their full message below. In summary, they revealed that they were hacked via an application one of their employees used to create the game.
As reported by Video Games Chronicle, GSC Game World is asking fans to ignore any leaks or builds that may come out due to this hack. They also point out that these materials will likely be outdated and that players will enjoy the game when they finally release it.
For those who may not remember, Stalker 2 was announced way back in 2010, and will possibly be discontinued Duke Nukem forever for the record for longest game in development when it is finally released. Over the past decade, the game has gone through serious setbacks, including loss of funding and a troubled development cycle, years before the recent complications of war in its native Ukraine.
As you’ll read below, GSC Game World isn’t shy about sharing their thoughts on the current situation, but their struggle to get this game off the ground dates back years before that.
It is a testament to the perseverance of the people of GSC Game World that they are not discouraged, even in this situation where their work is being held for ransom.
Stalker 2 is currently scheduled for release in 2023, on Xbox Series X|S and Windows, via Steam, Epic Game Store and GOG. However, if this news is any indication, it may be necessary for GSC Game World to delay the game again. In this case, they still haven’t committed to a release date, so it could be later this year, with any delays being internal and not disclosed to the public.
But lest we forget, GSC also has an official preview planned for the near future. Stalker 2 will be at GDC this year, in a scheduled session sponsored by Nvidia.
You can read GSC Game World’s full statement below.
“Recently, our employee’s account for a collaborative photo sharing application was hacked. The responsibility for this was taken by a community from a Russian social network. They threaten to use the obtained data for blackmail and threats. This is not the first attempt to hack and leak our data, including personal information. We have endured constant cyber attacks for more than a year now. We have faced extortion, acts of aggression, hacks, attempts to harm players and fans, and attempts to harm the development process or the reputation of our company.
We are a Ukrainian company, and like most Ukrainians, we have experienced many things that are much more terrifying: destroyed homes, destroyed lives and the death of our loved ones. Attempts to blackmail or intimidate us are completely useless.
Our unwavering commitment to support our country remains unchanged – we will continue to do everything to support Ukraine. And this will under no circumstances change in the future.
Despite the attempts to break us, we remain strong and brave, because when you believe in something and love it with all your heart, you must defend it at all costs.
We’ve been through a lot. However, these challenges only encourage us to work even harder because we believe that the truth is on our side. Evil will never win.
In case of any leaks, we ask you to refrain from viewing or distributing information about STALKER 2 Heart of Chornobyl. Our out-of-date material and progression material may dilute the impression of the final idea we put into the game. We encourage you to be patient and wait for the official release for the best possible experience. We think you’ll love it.
We would like to express our deepest gratitude to our loyal community. We are overwhelmed by the response and support we have received from you. Thanks for that. From every member of the GSC Game World Team.
Our mission is to commit all our strength and passion to complete the project and deliver it to you, despite all obstacles on the way, your support is our inspiration.
Glory to Ukraine.
Sincerely,
GSC Game World Team”
