Ukrainian developer GSC Game World, the studio behind the upcoming STALKER 2, has identified that it has been hacked by Russian hackers and has confirmed that testing material for the game has leaked.

　　Recently, early developer gameplay footage of the STALKER sequel surfaced online, and the team behind the shooter has now issued a statement on Twitter, stating that Russian hackers have had access to internal development builds of STALKER 2 for nearly a year and a half. In the statement, the Ukrainian developer asks fans not to look at or share any leaked information about the upcoming title as this early material could ruin the gameplay experience for fans.

　　"We have some important information to share. Our team has identified a vulnerability exploited by a group of Russian hackers attacking the company for almost a year and a half", the official statement reads. "Unfortunately, they were able to access and compromise some of our leaked information intended for internal testing of various game aspects."

　　The team continues, "As for now, we kindly ask stalkers and those who want to join the Zone in the future not to look at or share any leaked materials from the game. Although these materials are only used for testing purposes and are not release-ready, these leaks may ruin your experience of exploring the Zone by yourself.

　　Rest assured, our team remains dedicated to delivering an exceptional gaming experience. STALKER 2: Heart of Chernobyl is the game we dedicate our hearts and souls to. Despite the issue, we will continue to ensure that the game will satisfy your expectations, as we hope."

　　After months of silence, STALKER 2 received a gorgeous gameplay trailer late last year. Unfortunately, as reported some months ago, several GSC Game World developers were reportedly threatened by Russian fans following a data breach. In response to the threat, the team issued a statement, saying that it will not be coerced by the threats. "We are a Ukrainian company, and like most Ukrainians, we have experienced many things that are much more terrifying: Destroyed houses, ruined lives, and the deaths of our loved ones. Attempts to Blackmail or intimidate us are completely futile. Our unwavering commitment to supporting our country remains unchanged - we will continue to do everything possible to support Ukraine, and this won't change in the future under any circumstances."

　　STALKER 2 is slated for a release later this year for Xbox Series X|S and PC. Recent rumors suggest that the game is a timed Xbox console exclusive for a period of three months, after which it could also come to PlayStation 5.