Finding unexpected Easter eggs in video games is always a thrill, and one STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl player recently stumbled upon a delightful nod to the world of Harry Potter. During their adventure, they discovered a clever Easter egg that pays homage to a famous scene from the Harry Potter series, despite there being no direct correlation between the wizarding world and the STALKER universe. This kind of playful cultural reference is becoming more common as developers enjoy weaving iconic elements from well-loved franchises into their games.
After more than a decade of anticipation, STALKER 2 was finally launched in November 2024. As the fourth installment in GSC Game World’s series, it follows in the footsteps of 2009’s Call of Pripyat. For those diving into this FPS survival horror, completing a few preliminary objectives can enhance the overall gaming experience. The game promises an intricate storyline with multiple endings, spectacular photogrammetry graphics, and an expansive open world that seamlessly draws players in.
On Twitter, user xGarbett shared a screenshot highlighting the Harry Potter homage. In it, you can see a car eerily similar to the Ford Anglia 105E, which fans will recognize from the sequence where Ron and Harry famously borrow the car, only for it to end up stuck in the Whomping Willow. This scene is a classic from the film adaptation of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, directed by Chris Columbus in 2002. Such references highlight STALKER 2’s subtle integration of popular cinematic themes and literature into its gameplay.
While Hogwarts Legacy offered Wizarding World aficionados plenty of Easter eggs, this is the first such reference found in STALKER 2. Yet, this same gamer has identified other clever nods peppered throughout the game. They found tributes to Dark Souls and Call of Duty 4, notably a lone campfire reminiscent of the Bonfire resting spot in Dark Souls, strategically placed near a body of water.
As the Harry Potter universe continues to expand with anticipated projects like Avalanche Software’s sequel and a new HBO series, fans are eager to see how these new ventures will tie back to the beloved original films. While those iconic movies remain irreplaceable to many, additional content set in the Wizarding World is always exciting. It’s clear that STALKER 2 acknowledges this continued fascination, honoring Harry Potter’s legacy in its own unique way.
