STALKER 2 Shines with Ukrainian Voice Acting and English Subtitles

After Charlie Hall reviewed S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 for Polygon and shared some beginner tips, he offered me an extra piece of advice that I’m excited to pass along to you: try playing the game with Ukrainian language voice acting accompanied by English subtitles. Sure, this means you’ll need to read more and stay on your toes while adventuring, but given that S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 demands a lot of focus anyway, it’s a worthwhile adjustment.

Let me clarify that the English voice actors do a fine job. If you stick with them, you’ll likely enjoy the game without ever realizing what you’re missing. Putting aside the game’s current unstable state—which I’ve experienced via Xbox Series S on Game Pass with a fair share of hiccups, but mostly smooth sailing—you might still find it quite engaging.

Switching over to Ukrainian brings several advantages. First, there’s an element of authenticity. Developed by the Ukrainian studio GSC Game World, the game continued production even through the tumultuous times following the 2022 Russian invasion. The S.T.A.L.K.E.R. saga unfolds in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, capturing both fantastical and harsh realities faced by local characters. These survivors, navigating a world fraught with danger while forming bonds amidst adversity, truly come to life when spoken in their native tongue. This choice aligns with the artistic and emotional narrative intended by the creators.

Moreover, the performances are compelling. Take Skif’s voice actor, for instance; his portrayal of the main character is exceptional and a particular highlight for me. Considering you’ll be journeying alongside Skif throughout the game, switching to Ukrainian allows you to immerse yourself more deeply into his experience and the world of the Zone.