S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Call of Prypiat - Enhanced Edition

S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Call of Pripyat - Enhanced Edition is generally regarded as the most polished and balanced entry in the original trilogy, offering improved visuals, better AI, and quality-of-life updates. Many players appreciate the enhanced graphics, achievement additions, and the refined gameplay mechanics, especially on higher difficulties. However, the game is noted for being shorter than its predecessors, encouraging players to engage with side quests for a fuller experience. Despite these improvements, the Enhanced Edition has sparked controversy due to the removal of classic Russian voices, censorship of Soviet imagery, and use of AI-generated assets, which some fans feel detract from the authentic atmosphere. Technical issues such as crashes and performance problems have been reported, though not universally. The community is divided, with some recommending sticking to the original versions or mods for a more authentic experience. The Enhanced Edition was also criticized for aggressive copyright enforcement against indie projects, damaging the developer's reputation among fans.

Highlights

Players praise the Enhanced Edition for its improved graphics and shadows, enhanced AI behavior, and a more balanced gameplay experience compared to earlier titles. The game's atmosphere, open-world exploration, and immersive survival mechanics remain standout features. The addition of achievements and quality-of-life improvements like artifact respawning and randomized mission orders add depth. The game is recognized as a definitive and atmospheric conclusion to the trilogy, with many considering it the best of the original three entries. The refined combat and tactical elements, along with the bleak, immersive setting of the Zone, continue to captivate fans.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include the removal of iconic Russian voices and Soviet-era imagery, which breaks immersion for some players. The Enhanced Edition has been described as a downgrade in certain aspects, with reports of worse performance and more frequent crashes than the original. Escort missions, particularly near the ending, are often cited as frustrating due to poor NPC pathfinding and AI glitches. Some players find the game too short if only main quests are followed. Additionally, the developer's controversial DMCA actions against indie games like Misery have alienated parts of the community. The use of AI for asset creation and perceived lazy development efforts have also drawn ire.