You Can Now Preload Stalker 2 on Xbox – Here’s How

If you’re ready to explore the dangerous radioactive Zone, Stalker 2 Heart of Chornobyl is now available for preloading on Xbox Series X|S. With the game launching on November 20, here’s what you need to know to preload Stalker 2 on your Xbox console.

How to Preload Stalker 2 Heart of Chornobyl

Before downloading Stalker 2, you must double-check your Xbox console’s storage space. It is one of the biggest games on Xbox right now since it takes up almost 150GB. If you have the Xbox Series S with its 512GB drive, you might need to free up some space first. To make room, delete games you’re not playing anymore, think about getting an Xbox Storage Expansion Card, or use Xbox Cloud Gaming as a backup if storage is tight.

Now here are the steps on how to preload Stalker 2:

On Xbox Series X|S:

1. Open the Xbox Store.
2. Search for STALKER 2.
3. Select your preferred version (Standard, Deluxe, or Ultimate Edition).
4. Click Install after purchase.
5. If you have Game Pass, you can preload it straight from the library.

For PC Players:

Unfortunately, PC players don’t have the preload option. The developers confirmed on the official Stalker 2 Discord that PC preloads are not available due to some technical limitations. You’ll need to wait a little bit longer until launch day to begin downloading.

Stalker 2 Platform Differences

On Xbox Series S, Stalker 2 Heart of Chornobyl offers 60 FPS gameplay, takes full advantage of Unreal Engine 5, and supports mods. Players can also use cloud gaming through Game Pass. For PC, the game requires at least 150 GB of free space and mandates SSD storage, as HDDs are not supported. We have covered the full PC requirements for the game separately.

Stalker 2 Heart of Chornobyl Release Date

Stalker 2 Heart of Chornobyl is coming out on November 20th, 2024, and it’ll be live at 8:00 AM PT or 11:00 AM ET, according to the Microsoft Store. You can play it on Xbox Series X|S and PC through Steam, the Microsoft Store, Epic Games Store, or GOG. Plus, it’s a day-one Xbox Game Pass title, so if you are a subscriber, you can jump in right away.

So, are you ready to explore the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone?

Shida Aruya

Shida is gaming writer at TechWiser who loves getting comfy with a good book. When she is not writing, you'll catch her growing crops in Stardew Valley and Fields of Mistria. For Shida, nothing beats a day split between reading books and playing games.