Mapping out multiplayer

"Our goal was to create a [multiplayer] mode with unique feel," said Anton Bolshakov, project lead on the game. "The setting, anomalies, sets of weapons, ranking system, weapons upgrades, various ammo for weapons, maps, atmosphere and gameplay - S.T.A.L.K.E.R. is unlike any other multiplayer."

One of the S.T.A.L.K.E.R.-specific features making an appearance in multiplayer is the continual day-and-night cycle. This seemingly innocuous feature can change the dynamic of a firefight simply by varying the visibility of a level. Snipers will find it more difficult to acquire targets at night, while stealth oriented players will love the cover of darkness.

All of the weapons have been pulled over from the single player game, including the ability to use different types of ammo in a single gun. This little feature is a godsend when on the field, allowing a player to swap an armor piercing clip with a standard clip at a moment's notice. It's a great way to adjust the level of damage versus penetration without affecting the handling of your weapon. Weapons can also be upgraded with accessories, such as a silencer, scope or removable grenade launcher.

Most of the maps in the multiplayer mode are custom designed just for competitive play, however a few have been reworked from important locations in the single player mode.