STALKER 2 will add a hardcore "Master" mode with a disabled HUD.

Studio GSC Game World officially introduced a new difficulty level "Master"For S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, which will be part of the major update 1.7. This mode is aimed at players seeking a true challenge in a highly realistic environment. According to the developers, the patch will be released soon, and its release may coincide with the launch of the console version for PlayStation 5, scheduled for November 20 2025 years.

Master mode radically changes the usual approach to survival in the Zone. Visual interfaces are completely disabled, including health indicators, maps and crosshair. Resources will become noticeably more limited, armor and weapons are less durable, and the prices at the merchants are higher than usualYou can select this mode only when starting a new game, which emphasizes the significance of every decision and mistake.

Update 1.7 will not only offer a new difficulty level, but will also add new items, reworked mechanics of power engineers, and a new one will also appear weather effect "Rain", which will enhance the atmosphere. PlayStation 5 support is also a focus of the studio's immediate plans, and the update will likely be part of the overall preparations for the release on the new platform.

The addition of a hardcore mode demonstrates the studio's commitment to making STALKER 2 not only technically mature but also truly deep in terms of gameplay. "Master" is expected to provide a new challenge for series veterans and help unlock the Zone's potential in an even more challenging manner.