On Thursday, Russia launched an attack on Ukraine. While Russia claims that it isn't targeting civilian populations or cities, reports of explosions within Ukraine's capital Kyiv raise many questions. Kyiv is notably the home of several sizable game development studios, including STALKER developer GSC Game World. Currently working on STALKER 2, GSC Game World's work is heavily tied to Ukrainian culture and its history with Russia. With that in mind, GSC Game World issued a strong statement regarding the Russian invasion of its home.In a message shared on Twitter, GSC Game World asked supporters across the world to stand with Ukraine amid Russian's invasion of the country. "Our country woke up with the sounds of explosions and weapons fire, but is ready to defend its freedom and independence," said GSC Game World. It went on, explaining that Ukraine "remains strong" and that it is confident in its country's armed forces. The developers say that, "the future is unknown, but we hope for the best."The statement from GSC Game World is also a request for support for Ukraine and the country's armed forces. A special aid account number is included in the message allowing for supporters to contribute to Ukraine's armed forces as it seeks to hold back the invasion from Russia. GSC Game World also asks that those who see its message "do not stand aside" and that they "help those in need."
The closing message from GSC Game World captures the moment, saying, "Through pain, death, war, fear and inhuman cruelty, Ukraine will persevere. As it always does."
Responses on social media are in full support of GSC Game World. Dozens of messages of support have been shared by fans of STALKER and beyond. Messages of prayer for the developers' safety and hope for Ukraine as it fights against a war of Russian aggression are common. While there are some messages tactless questions regarding the development of STALKER 2, they are thankfully few.
What happens next isn't clear. Russia's invasion of Ukraine is escalating, with reports of heavy casualties suffered on both sides. Further, there are reports that Russian forces that were based in Belarus are moving towards Kyiv itself. The developers at GSC Game World didn't make clear whether employees would be evacuating or not. While it might seem obvious to assume that the studio has paused development of STALKER 2, even that isn't entirely clear. The concept of normalcy is understandably dashed for the foreseeable future for GSC Game World and Ukraine.