Ukrainian Game Developer GSC Game World Hit by Cyber Attack, Leaks Stalker 2 Footage

GSC Game World, the Ukrainian development studio behind the highly anticipated Stalker 2, has fallen victim to a series of relentless cyber attacks over the past year. The latest incident involved the hacking of an employee's account, which was used for collaborative work and image sharing, resulting in a ransom demand and intimidation. A group known as Vestnik TSS has taken responsibility for the hack, posting leaked images from Stalker 2 on the Russian social media platform VK and threatening to release more sensitive information unless their demands are met by March 15. The group's demands include a formal apology from GSC Game World for its perceived mistreatment of Russian and Belarusian players, as well as the localization of the game in Russian. In response to the cyber attack, GSC Game World has issued a statement expressing its resolve in the face of adversity, emphasizing that such attempts at blackmail and intimidation are futile. The studio has endured over a year of constant cyber attacks, which have included acts of aggression, hacking attempts, and attempts to harm players and fans, as well as undermine the game's development process and the company's reputation. As a Ukrainian company, GSC Game World has faced far more daunting challenges, including the devastating consequences of war, and remains committed to its vision for Stalker 2. The studio has urged fans to avoid engaging with or sharing any leaked information about the game, citing concerns that outdated or unfinished materials could tarnish the final product. Originally slated for release in April 2022, Stalker 2 has experienced multiple delays, with the current release date set for 2023.