{
  "id": 5382654,
  "title": "STALZONE Is an Extraction Shooter with MMO DNA",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/03/stalzone-is-an-extraction-shooter-with-mmo-dna",
  "topic": "science",
  "section": "Science",
  "published": "2026-09-03T18:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "IGN",
    "slug": "ign",
    "url": "https://www.ign.com/articles/stalzone-is-an-extraction-shooter-with-mmo-dna"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "STALZONE is a unique extraction shooter with MMO elements, developed by EXBO and set in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. The game is not your typical extraction shooter; instead, it features a persistent world where factions battle for territory, and player progress is built around acquiring and customizing new gear. Players can explore a 50-hour story across two main campaigns, complete quests, and battle monsters. Unlike traditional extraction shooters, there is no leveling system, and progression is based on gear acquisition. There are over 200 guns to acquire, with various attachments to customize them. Players can acquire gear from the Zone, die and lose only what they gathered during that trip, or trade with other players through the auction house. Global matchmaking pairs players with similarly geared opponents, but skill and positioning determine the winner, thanks to EXBO’s anti-cheat system. EXBO has consistently supported STALZONE since its launch, with updates every two weeks and regular seasonal events. Recently, a rebrand and overhaul were introduced, adding English voice acting, new face models, lighting systems, and a new summer storyline. The latest update brought a fall season, transforming the Zone with autumn colors, introducing the northern territories' Forge-11, and kicking off a major event centered around the cultist faction Covenant. Players can start playing STALZONE for free on PC through Steam, Epic Games Store, or the game’s official website, and can use the invite code IGNWELCOME to unlock exclusive rewards.",
  "summary": "Back in June, developer EXBO rebranded free-to-play open-world PvPvE extraction shooter STALCRAFT: X as STALZONE alongside a graphical upgrade, reworking of its starting missions and locations, PvP rebalancing, and other big changes. The overhaul was designed to allow new players smooth entry to a game that’s been going strong for years and is a unique combination of different genres. While…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}