Scavenger, Trespasser, Adventurer, Loner, Killer, Explorer, Robber is officially receiving a full sequel, says GSC Game World. The developers are planning on creating a S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 that's true to the original, keeping the main themes that have built such a large cult following. Expect to see the post-apocalyptic sequel in 2012.

Sergiy Grygorovych, CEO of GSC Game World, had this to say about the announcement:

"After the official sales of the series exceeded 4 million copies worldwide, we had no doubts left to start creating a new big game in the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. universe. This will be the next chapter of the mega-popular game players expect from us."

The original S.T.A.L.K.E.R., including its two expansions Clear Sky and Call of Pripyat, has only grown in popularity since its release in 2007. The initial release took over 6 years of development, then the two expansions were spread over the next three years. 2012 may seem like a ways away, but comparatively S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 is being rushed out the door.

One new interesting development is that S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 is being built upon all new multi-platform technology. The series had previously been made exclusively for PCs, but perhaps we should expect to see the sequel on the 360 or PS3. The implications of this might be disappointing, after all most PC exclusive games that are ported to consoles go through a drastic oversimplification. The limitations of a controller are more demanding than a mouse and keyboard. Of course, time will tell.

I've never given S.T.A.L.K.E.R. a spin before, I'm not too big on sandbox games with no story, but it's hard to respect a game with such an enthusiastic community. Just how many modifications are out there? So good luck to GSC Game World on this one, they've got their work cut out for them. Cult followings can often become a double edged sword.

S.T.A.L.K.E.R 2 is scheduled for a 2012 release for the PC and likely consoles as well.

Souce: GSC Game World