After Charlie Hall shared his review of STALKER 2 over at Polygon, he offered a nifty tip that I couldn’t resist passing along: try switching the game’s voice acting to Ukrainian, paired with English subtitles. Sure, this requires a bit of extra reading, nudging your attention up a notch, but given how challenging STALKER 2 can be, you’re already pretty focused. Trust me, this little tweak is absolutely worth it.
Now, don’t get me wrong—the English voice actors do a respectable job. If you decide to keep it in English the whole time, you’ll still have a great experience, although you might remain blissfully unaware of what you’re missing out on. (I’ve been navigating the game on Xbox Series S through Game Pass. It’s a bit buggy, sure, but it’s been a mostly smooth ride for me.)
Switching the language does bring its perks. The first being authenticity. Crafted by the Ukrainian team at GSC Game World, STALKER 2 saw its development continue even after the unsettling events of the Russian invasion in 2022. Set against the haunting backdrop of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, this post-apocalyptic saga is deeply entwined with local narratives and struggles. Hearing the characters converse in Ukrainian feels like a natural choice, adding both depth and emotional weight to the experience.
And let’s talk about the performances. Skif, the main character, is voiced superbly, delivering a standout portrayal that really draws you in. You’ll be hearing his voice throughout the game. It’s definitely worthwhile to make the switch and step fully into his world as you explore the Zone.
