GSC Game World is bringing the post-apocalyptic world of Chornobyl to modern gaming platforms with significant visual and performance enhancements. The Ukrainian developer has announced a comprehensive upgrade to their classic survival horror franchise that will delight both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Enhanced Edition Brings Classic Trilogy to Modern Platforms
GSC Game World has officially announced S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Legends of the Zone Trilogy - Enhanced Edition, a next-generation upgrade of the original S.T.A.L.K.E.R. trilogy scheduled for release on May 20, 2025. This enhanced collection includes upgraded versions of Shadow of Chornobyl (2007), Clear Sky (2008), and Call of Pripyat (2009), with substantial visual improvements and platform-specific optimizations. The trilogy will be available across PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, offering players multiple ways to experience these atmospheric post-apocalyptic adventures with modern technical enhancements.
Free Upgrade for Existing Owners
In a consumer-friendly move, GSC Game World has confirmed that players who already own S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Legends of the Zone Trilogy on Xbox Series X|S or PS5 will receive the Enhanced Edition of the corresponding games at no additional cost. Similarly, PC players who own the original S.T.A.L.K.E.R. games will get the Enhanced Editions for free, while new purchasers of the Enhanced Editions will receive the original versions included. The complete trilogy bundle is priced at USD $39.99, with individual titles available for USD $19.99 each.
Pricing Information
- Complete Trilogy Bundle: USD $39.99
- Individual Games: USD $19.99 each
- Free upgrade for existing owners of the original games
Visual and Technical Enhancements
The Enhanced Edition brings significant visual improvements across all platforms. Players can expect enhanced lighting with godrays, screen space reflections, and global illumination that create a more immersive atmosphere. The upgrade also features upscaled textures and detailed 3D models for NPCs, weapons, and environments. Advanced shaders for water and wetness effects, paired with upgraded skyboxes, contribute to a more dynamic and visually striking world. Additionally, the games now feature 4K pre-rendered cinematics and improved weapon field-of-view for better combat visibility.
Key Visual Enhancements
- Enhanced lighting with godrays and screen space reflections
- Global illumination for improved atmosphere
- Upscaled textures and detailed 3D models
- Advanced water and wetness shaders
- Upgraded skyboxes for more dynamic environments
- 4K pre-rendered cinematics
- Improved weapon FOV
Platform-Specific Performance Modes
Console players will have access to multiple performance modes tailored to their hardware. On PlayStation 5, PlayStation 5 Pro, and Xbox Series X, players can choose between Quality mode (native 4K at 30 FPS), Balanced mode (upscaled 4K at 40 FPS), Performance mode (upscaled 4K at 60 FPS), and Ultra Performance mode (upscaled 2K at 120 FPS). Xbox Series S owners will have access to Quality mode (native 2K at 30 FPS), Balanced mode (upscaled 2K at 40 FPS), and Performance mode (1080p at 60 FPS). It's worth noting that both the Balanced mode and Ultra Performance mode require a display that supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) technology.
Performance Modes by Platform
PlayStation 5, PlayStation 5 Pro, Xbox Series X:
- Quality: Native 4K at 30 FPS
- Balanced: Upscaled 4K at 40 FPS (requires VRR)
- Performance: Upscaled 4K at 60 FPS
- Ultra Performance: Upscaled 2K at 120 FPS (requires VRR)
Xbox Series S:
- Quality: Native 2K at 30 FPS
- Balanced: Upscaled 2K at 40 FPS (requires VRR)
- Performance: 1080p at 60 FPS
Expanded Mod Support and Platform Features
One of the most exciting aspects of the Enhanced Edition is the expanded mod support across platforms. Console players will benefit from Mod.io integration, allowing them to create and share mods across PC and consoles. PC players will enjoy Steam Workshop integration, providing access to a vast library of user-generated content. Additionally, the PC version is fully optimized for Steam Deck, enabling portable play, and includes cloud save functionality for seamless progress backup across devices. Console players will also appreciate the addition of keyboard and mouse support on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, offering a tailored control experience.
GSC Game World's Continued Success
This release follows the successful launch of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl last year, which marked a significant milestone for the Kyiv-based developer amid the ongoing full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The Enhanced Edition of the original trilogy demonstrates GSC Game World's commitment to preserving and enhancing their iconic franchise while making it accessible to a new generation of players on modern hardware.