S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky Review Summary

Last updated: 2026-10-20
Review summary
  • Excellent atmosphere
  • Engaging story and plot
  • Weapon and armor upgrade systems
  • Numerous bugs and crashes
  • Faction war poorly implemented
  • Poor weapon accuracy
S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky header

Categories

First-Person ShooterOpen-World ExplorationSurvivalFaction ManagementWeapon CustomizationInventory ManagementSingle-player Story

Emotions

Archetypes

Hardware

Windows 8-11GB VRAMpositive
Sample precision
Helpful reviews
67%
Unhelpful reviews
29%
Protest reviews
3%
Positive points
813
Negative points
896
Gameplay points
743
Perf. points
57
Rec. points
236
Misc points
403
Point
Overall positive game reception
Description
Players widely consider the game excellent or very good, though some note it is not a masterpiece. General sentiment is highly favorable.
Importance
20%
Weapon and armor upgrade systems
Description
The game introduces expanded weapon and armor upgrade and repair systems, including two mutually exclusive upgrade paths. This adds depth and customization.
Importance
19%
Excellent atmosphere
Description
The game's atmosphere is frequently praised as excellent, gripping, and charming. Many consider it the best in the trilogy.
Importance
17%
Faction choice and interaction
Description
Players can join any faction, fight for or against them, and influence the balance of power. Faction interactions are determined by player actions, affecting equipment availability and territorial control.
Importance
13%
Engaging story and plot
Description
The plot is interesting and serves as a prequel to Shadow of Chernobyl, filling gaps in the canon. The story is considered higher quality and engaging.
Importance
13%
Better than previous entry
Description
Many players find the game plays better and holds up better than the previous entry, with improved mechanics and exploration. It is considered superior in many aspects.
Importance
12%
Improved graphics and lighting
Description
Graphics are noticeably improved compared to the first game, especially lighting and weather effects. The game is described as genuinely beautiful.
Importance
10%
Complements Shadow of Chernobyl
Description
The game continues the adventure after Shadow of Chernobyl and is seen as a perfect complement. Some consider it even better than the original with mods.
Importance
6%
New detailed locations
Description
The game introduces new, detailed locations such as Limansk, the Swamps, Red Forest, and Hospital. These areas add variety and exploration.
Importance
5%
Fast travel feature
Description
Fast travel is introduced, available for a fee, making navigation more convenient. This is a welcome addition for many players.
Importance
5%
New artifact search system
Description
Finding artifacts is a new and unique challenge with added randomness. The system adds unpredictability to exploration.
Importance
5%
Nostalgic value
Description
The game brings back childhood memories and successfully recreates old feelings for many players. It evokes a strong sense of nostalgia.
Importance
5%