Back in 2020, the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 development team at GSC Game World consisted of just 65 individuals. Fast forward a few years, and the studio has grown significantly, with its staff expanding sevenfold to an impressive 470 employees. This extraordinary growth occurred despite the immense challenges posed by the global COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
In a recent interview with Forbes, investor Maksym Krippa, the owner of GSC Game World, shared valuable insights into the studio’s evolution and the development of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2. He credited much of the game’s operational success to the leadership of CEO Evgeniy Grigorovich and chief producer Maria Grigorovich, who played crucial roles in ensuring the project stayed on track. Bestgamer.net publishes the main points of this interview.
Financial Milestones and Anticipation
Krippa revealed that S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 has already reached profitability through pre-orders and early sales, even before its official release. This remarkable achievement underscores the enduring popularity of the franchise and the dedication of the development team. When asked about the sales volume needed for financial success, Krippa confidently remarked, “We have already sold enough to make the project profitable.” This statement highlights the game’s widespread anticipation and strong reception from fans.
The Long Road to S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2
Officially released on November 20 at 18:00, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 faced a tumultuous development journey, marked by six postponements. Despite these delays, the team remained committed to delivering a game that lived up to the legacy of its predecessor.
In a behind-the-scenes documentary about the game’s creation, Maksym Tkachenko, Project Manager at GSC Game World, shared the weight of responsibility the team felt: “We are standing on the shoulders of legends who created the first S.T.A.L.K.E.R. We would not be forgiven if we made it less than great.” These words reflect the dedication and passion that fueled the project’s success.
Upholding a Legacy of Excellence
GSC Game World, founded in Kyiv in 1995, has long been celebrated as a leader in the video game industry. Renowned for creating iconic franchises like Cossacks and S.T.A.L.K.E.R., the studio has built a reputation for innovation and high-quality production.
The release of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 represents a pivotal moment in the studio’s history, reaffirming its position as a global leader in game development. With cutting-edge technology and a commitment to honoring its storied past, GSC Game World continues to set new benchmarks in the industry, ensuring its place among gaming’s elite creators.
