On July 9, 2024, EXBO released a major update for the free-to-play MMOFPS game STALCRAFT, now known as STALCRAFT: X. This update marks the 10th anniversary of the game and brings numerous changes and improvements to take the game into a new era.

Among other things, the update includes new northern locations that have been specially adapted for the four opposing factions. Players can now mine resources in domestic areas and take part in new open-world events. Scientist suits allow access to fully infected zones that are inaccessible to other players.

Another highlight of the update is the introduction of new faction stories in the North. After completing the main story in the southern areas, players can unlock extensive northern faction questlines that offer unique insights into the world of the zone. New mechanics in the quest locations provide an even more intense gaming experience.

The movement system and animations have been completely overhauled. After almost two years of development, the new animations make it easier to read enemy movements and significantly improve the overall gaming experience. NPCs have also been converted to the new movement system and have greatly improved artificial intelligence in the northern areas.

New game mechanics include the ability to capture outposts in disputed territories and receive quantum batteries as a reward. The "Territory" system has also been introduced, making it easier to hunt mutants by highlighting their locations on the map. Players can now also set up their own hideouts to prepare for new raids and craft high-level consumables.

An extensive graphics update provides improved visual effects, including more realistic trees, vehicles and water visuals, as well as a new lighting system. The weather in the game can now change randomly, making the game experience even more varied.

Numerous adjustments have been made in the areas of balance and economy. For example, the hit boxes of heavy suits have been enlarged and the properties of many weapons have been adjusted. The exchange recipes have been revised to better match the required resources.

The update is rounded off by a revision of the sound design. New sounds for mutants, footsteps and weapon interactions as well as new ambient and story quest music provide a more immersive gaming experience.

The user interface has also been improved to encourage social interaction. Players can now add friends, write letters, join squads and manage notifications centrally.

What is STALCRAFT: X?
STALCRAFT: X is a free-to-play MMOFPS game with RPG elements, set in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone and featuring numerous PvP and PvE activities.

What new features does the update bring?
The update brings new northern locations, revised animations, new faction stories, a new movement system, revised game mechanics and a comprehensive graphics and sound update.

How do the new faction stories affect the game?
The new faction stories offer unique insights into the world of the Zone and reveal the ideologies of the chosen factions, further deepening the gameplay experience.

What has changed in the movement system?
The movement system and animations have been completely overhauled, allowing for better readability of enemy movements and an improved gameplay experience.

Are there any changes to balancing and economy?
Yes, the hitboxes of heavy suits have been enlarged, the properties of many weapons have been adjusted and the exchange recipes have been revised to better match the required resources.

What new game mechanics have been introduced?
New game mechanics include the conquest of outposts, the "territory" system for hunting mutants and the ability to set up your own hideouts.