While exploring the vast and dangerous Exclusion Zone in Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl, you might expect fast travel to be a reliable way to navigate the map. However, the fast travel system in Stalker 2 has limitations that can significantly impact your journey. It’s crucial to understand these potential drawbacks to avoid getting stuck in precarious situations.
One key issue is that access to fast travel points can be lost as you progress through the game. Certain quests and in-game events can trigger changes in the world, rendering some locations inaccessible for fast travel, either to or from. This isn’t always immediately obvious, and players can find themselves unexpectedly stranded.
For example, the side quest “On the Edge” can lead to the disappearance of the fast travel NPC in Zalissya, effectively cutting off this location. Similarly, after completing the main quest “Visions of Truth,” players have reported losing access to Malachite Base. While fast travel to Malachite Base might still be available, the doors become locked, preventing any fast travel away from the location.
These aren’t isolated incidents. Reports suggest that entire settlements like Zalissya and Rostok can be wiped out entirely due to in-game events. This means all NPCs, including fast travel providers, vanish, leaving these areas fast travel dead zones.
The western and southwestern regions of the map appear to be particularly vulnerable to these fast travel disruptions. You might be able to fast travel to certain points in these areas, only to discover you cannot fast travel back out. This forces players to undertake long and potentially perilous treks on foot to reach objectives, stashes, or simply move to a different part of the Zone.
Understanding the unreliable nature of fast travel in Stalker 2 is essential for effective exploration and mission planning. While the option might be presented, always be aware that your access can be revoked, potentially leaving you stranded and vulnerable in the heart of the Zone. Plan your journeys carefully, and be prepared to rely on your own two legs more often than you might initially expect.
For more survival tips in the harsh world of Stalker 2, consider checking out our guides on how to increase carry weight and artifact farming. Navigating the Zone requires more than just a quick jump across the map.
