GSC Game World, the Ukraine-based game developer behind the much-anticipated S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, has released a statement on Twitter addressing a security breach that led to information leaks from the game.
The company stated that a group of Russian hackers had been attacking the company for nearly a year and a half, exploiting a vulnerability within the organization. Unfortunately, this resulted in compromising some internal data related to the game, information originally intended for testing various game aspects.
“GSC Game World has identified a vulnerability exploited by a group of Russian hackers,” the statement reads. “They were able to access and compromise some of our leaked information intended for internal testing of various game aspects.”
The developer has made a plea to fans and future players, kindly requesting that they avoid viewing or sharing any leaked materials. While these materials were primarily for testing and not ready for release, the leaks could potentially spoil the gaming experience for those excited about exploring the game’s ‘Zone.’
“We kindly ask stalkers and those who want to join the Zone in the future not to look at or share any leaked materials from the game,” GSC said. “These leaks may ruin your experience of exploring the Zone by yourself.”
Despite the unexpected challenge, the GSC Game World Team remains committed to delivering an exceptional gaming experience. They reassure fans that S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl remains a project close to their hearts and that they remain dedicated to ensuring the final product meets fans’ expectations.
“S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is the game we dedicate our hearts and souls to,” the team stated. “Despite the issue, we will continue to ensure that the game will satisfy your expectations, as we hope.”
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is currently set to be released in December 2023. In the meantime, fans are asked to remain vigilant about avoiding leaked information that could potentially diminish their overall game experience. The developer will continue working on mitigating the effects of the breach and taking steps to prevent such occurrences.
A message from GSC Game World team pic.twitter.com/gSslCNxvTb
— S.T.A.L.K.E.R. OFFICIAL (@stalker_thegame) June 1, 2023