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S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 Renames Game “Heart of Chornobyl” in Honor of Ukrainian Spelling

Published

2 years ago

March 15, 2022

Popular RPG S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 has just recently altered its name in light of the conflict in Ukraine. The popular FPS/RPG adventure game that has been out for quite some time is actually based in Kyiv, Ukraine. The second installment to the series was labeled and known as S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chernobyl. However, unannounced the developer of the game, GSC Game World has altered the title to Heart of Chornobyl.

I know you might be thinking, okay so what's the big deal? Well, this was far more than a casual name change. The alternate spelling to the title of the game is actually the Ukrainian spelling, opposed to the previous name which offered the Russian spelling. While we don't know the exact reason this action was taken, it is most likely in support of Ukraine for the war that was imposed on them by Russia.

GSC Game World is actually based in Kyiv and has been doing whatever it can to support its home country. One of these ways is through Twitter where it has been constantly active in providing awareness and relief.

Ukraine needs all the help it can get.
Special aid account to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine. UA843000010000000047330992708
International Charitable Foundation "COME BACK ALIVE"
https://t.co/D3F2MYkDdo #SaveUkraine #StopRussia #StandWithUkraine
— S.T.A.L.K.E.R. OFFICIAL (@stalker_thegame) March 2, 2022

What we do know, is that this change could have much bigger implications. With GSC Game World knowledgeable about the different spelling it's just a matter of time before other companies and industries become aware of this.

Properly addressing the country's language is a small way to support Ukraine but with a more meaningful impact. It show's the country has their own identity, and is not confined to Russian ideals of living.

Hopefully, GSC Game World's action will bring more spotlight to the topic and we will begin to see Ukrainian spelling incorporated around the world.

So what are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments below or over on our socials here.

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Riley Fonger is a freelance writer, music lover, and gamer since adolescence. He loves anything video game-related and grew up with a passion for story games such as Bioshock and The Last of Us.