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For a first playthrough, play the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. games in release order: Shadow of Chernobyl, Clear Sky, Call of Pripyat, then S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl. Although Clear Sky takes place first in the story, release order gives newcomers the clearest introduction to the series.
Recommended S.T.A.L.K.E.R. play order
- S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl (2007)
- S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky (2008)
- S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Call of Pripyat (initially released in 2009; its Steam listing is dated 2010)
- S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl (2024)
The first three games make up the original trilogy. Heart of Chornobyl is the later sequel.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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S.T.A.L.K.E.R: Legends of the Zone Trilogy (Multi-Language) | $59.80 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Call of Prypyat - Collector's Edition | $82.43 | Buy on Amazon |
Release order vs. story chronology
Clear Sky is a standalone prequel to Shadow of Chernobyl, so the story chronology begins with Clear Sky. But it was released after Shadow of Chernobyl. For a first playthrough, start with the 2007 original, then play Clear Sky and Call of Pripyat in release order.
Call of Pripyat is a direct sequel to Shadow of Chernobyl. That makes the release order a useful path through the series’ main story, even though the second game chronologically takes place before the first.
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#1 Best Overall
- The first console reported version of the survival horror FPS S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series that has sold over 15 million units worldwide
- Chornobili, its tragedy doesn't end
- Genre: Open World FPS
Why play Heart of Chornobyl last?
GSC Game World describes S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl as a direct continuation of the plot that can also be played as a standalone title. In an Xbox Wire interview published March 6, 2024, GSC PR Specialist Zakhar Bocharov said that knowing earlier events and characters helps players enjoy some story moments, nods, and Easter eggs. You can begin with Heart of Chornobyl if that is the game you want to play, but the earlier titles provide extra context.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Release dates and storefront differences
Release years can vary by territory and storefront. Steam lists Shadow of Chernobyl as released on March 20, 2007, Clear Sky on September 15, 2008, and Call of Pripyat on February 11, 2010. Those are Steam listing dates, not universal launch dates. GSC’s company history gives worldwide release years of 2007, 2008, and 2009, respectively.
Rank #2
- S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Call of Pripyat is the third entry in the acclaimed S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series
- Action gameplay combined with strategy and tactical elements, with single- and multi-player modes
- Photorealistic graphics depicting the devastated area surrounding the Chernobyl reactor
- Gigantic game world offers total freedom of action, with over 70 custom missions and extended side quests
- Collector's Edition includes area map, tech-tree poster, stickers, and more
For the original PC games, Steam lists the titles individually and as a trilogy bundle; availability and prices may change by region and over time. Xbox Wire reported an Xbox trilogy bundle and individual purchase options in March 2024. SEGA also announced a packaged trilogy edition for Japan in June 2024, including Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4 versions. That announcement does not establish availability, language, or compatibility in other regions.
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