Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl features four unique endings. This comprehensive guide breaks down how each ending unfolds and what decisions lead to them throughout the campaign.
Fortunately, there’s no need to begin a new game for each ending. Although player decisions during the storyline shape various aspects of the experience, the most significant choices that determine the ending occur later in the narrative.
Crucial Missions That Shape the Endings
There are three pivotal missions that impact the conclusion of the game:
- Subtle Matter
- Dangerous Liaisons
- The Last Wish
During these missions, players are presented with two critical options. Time freezes momentarily, giving room for careful decision-making. Once a path is chosen, it becomes permanent unless an older save is loaded. These decisions affect Skif’s conduct and standing, potentially shifting alliances or turning trusted companions into enemies. Each choice carries weight.
Breakdown of All Endings in Stalker 2
The conclusion a player reaches depends on which characters or factions they choose to align with during these decisive moments. Aligning with Scar and embracing his vision for the Zone, for example, will guide players toward the Spark ending.
Below is a summary of each of the four possible endings, detailing the key characters involved and what each path represents. Note: major plot spoilers are present throughout the guide.
Ward Ending – Brave New World
This ending is tied to the Wardens, commanded by Colonel Korshunov, a determined leader whose connection to the Zone runs deeper than it first appears. Alongside the SIRCAA organization, Korshunov aims to impose control over the Zone, believing its chaos must be managed through unwavering discipline.
Key Choices:
- Subtle Matter – Select the option: Life is for the living
- Dangerous Liaisons – Choose between: I’m not your enemy or I’m with you
Following this path results in the Ward Ending, where the future of the Zone is shaped by order and control under Korshunov’s guidance.
Spark Ending – Today Never Ends
Scar, an enigmatic and visionary leader, champions this route. He dreams of the “Shining Zone,” a utopia without death or pain. Though seen as delusional by outsiders, Scar and his followers are steadfast in their pursuit of a harmonious reality.
Key Choices:
- Subtle Matter – Choose between: Eternal spring or I need more time
- Dangerous Liaisons – Select the escape option: [Escape]
Embracing Scar’s beliefs leads to the Spark Ending, a surreal and idealistic outcome rooted in hope for a better Zone.
Strelok Ending – She Will Never Be Free
Strelok’s deep, almost reverent connection to the Zone defines this path. He is fiercely protective, willing to eliminate anyone he perceives as a threat. Faction loyalty holds no sway if intentions to exploit or alter the Zone are suspected.
Key Choices:
- Subtle Matter – Select: Life is for the living
- Dangerous Liaisons – Choose: [Escape]
- The Last Wish – Opt for: [Fire]
Those who follow this path reach the Strelok Ending, a somber and personal finale reflecting the Zone’s enigmatic guardian spirit.
Kaymanov Ending – Project Y
Dr. Kaymanov, one of the earliest witnesses of the Zone’s formation, advocates for its natural evolution, including the well-being of its mutated lifeforms. He believes the Zone should be left untouched and allowed to flourish on its own terms.
This ending shares similarities with Strelok’s path but diverges at the final choice.
Key Choices:
- Subtle Matter – Choose: Life is for the living
- Dangerous Liaisons – Select: [Escape]
- The Last Wish – Pick: [Lower the gun]
Choosing Kaymanov’s final option unlocks the Kaymanov Ending, which presents a vision of the Zone’s autonomous and unbound future.
If you prefer board games, check out our review of the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. The Board Game here.