Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl is set to launch on November 20, 2024, and is now available for preload on Xbox, but with a hefty file size of 146.58GB. This substantial size may pose a challenge for players with limited storage, particularly on devices like the original 512GB Xbox Series S, which offers only about 350GB of usable space out of the box.
To accommodate the download, players may need to uninstall existing games or invest in additional storage solutions, such as the Seagate Xbox Storage Expansion Card. The game is available in three editions: standard, Deluxe, and Ultimate, and can also be accessed through an Xbox Game Pass subscription, all eligible for preloading.
For those unable to free up the necessary storage, Stalker 2 will also be offered via Xbox Cloud Gaming, allowing players to try the game without a full download, although this may not be ideal for users with slower internet connections. The game's development faced multiple delays, influenced by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where developer GSC Game World is located, alongside efforts to enhance its technical quality.