Russian Gamers Warned of Potential Criminal Liability for Purchasing S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2

Russian authorities have issued a warning regarding the potential legal repercussions of purchasing the upcoming video game S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, developed by Ukrainian GSC Game World.

Anton Gorelkin, the Deputy Chairman of theState Duma’s Committee  on Information Policy of Russia, stated that S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 could be banned not only because of the developer’s support for the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) but also if the game includes content deemed extremist or inciting violence.

Legal advisor Mikhail Mushailev emphasized that buying the game could potentially be interpreted as financially supporting what the Russian government considers in “hostile force”. If a customer knowingly purchases a product that may indirectly benefit the AFU, this transaction could be seen as supporting what Russian law defines as terrorism.

GSC Game World previously ceased all sales to Russian customers following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The game’s support of the Armed Forces of Ukraine could also lead to its official prohibition in Russia, according to statements from Russian lawmakers.

Earlier, Serhii Hryhorovych, founder of GSC Game World and creator of the popular S.T.A.L.K.E.R. video game series, announced that he would give away his Rolls-Royce, valued between $300,000 and $500,000, to anyone able to sink the Russian frigate Admiral Grigorovich.

Hryhorovych, who shares a surname with the vessel, expressed his frustration over the association, saying it brings “shame” to his family name.

Hryhorovych confirmed that the new game will exclude a Russian language option and will not be available for purchase in Russia. “I would like to ‘congratulate’ the Russians that S.T.A.L.K.E.R. will be released, but not in Russian,” he stated pointedly, signaling GSC Game World’s continued support for Ukraine amidst Russia’s war against Ukraine.