Reports are spreading that Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl is at the center of a bizarre disinformation campaign. The rumors claim the game is secretly being used to draft players into the Ukrainian military. This wild accusation has been traced back to a Russian campaign targeting the Ukrainian developer, GSC Game World.

GSC Game World, based in Ukraine, has been vocal about its support for the country during the ongoing conflict with Russia. However, the studio has faced relentless pressure, including cyberattacks and threats. The latest twist in this ongoing saga seems designed to tarnish the studio’s reputation and discourage players from supporting the game.

The disinformation effort reportedly involves doctored screenshots and fake documents. These are being circulated to suggest the game somehow collects player data to conscript them into military service. GSC Game World firmly denies these allegations, calling them absurd and politically motivated. The studio insists its focus is on finishing Stalker 2 and delivering the immersive experience fans expect.

Russian disinfo is trying to spark a boycott of Stalker 2 by claiming it’s going to draft you into the war in Ukraine somehow. https://t.co/dxaRdodbtl

— PC Gamer (@pcgamer) December 2, 2024

This isn’t the first time the developer has been a target. Earlier, it suffered a major cyberattack that leaked sensitive files about the game. Despite these challenges, GSC has continued its work, though its developers face disruptions caused by the war.

The smear campaign highlights how gaming and geopolitics can collide in surprising and unsettling ways. As we wait for Stalker 2 to release, it’s clear that some forces are determined to drag the game into their broader battles. GSC urges players not to believe baseless rumors and to support their ongoing work during these challenging times.