Stalker 2 Leaving Xbox Game Pass in November, Sparking Backlash
▼ Summary
– Microsoft has confirmed Stalker 2 will leave Xbox Game Pass on November 16, 2025, causing frustration among subscribers.
– Stalker 2 launched as an Xbox console exclusive in 2024 with Microsoft’s marketing support and a documentary about development challenges during the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
– Subscribers criticize the removal timing, noting the game only became stable after a year of patches and just before its PlayStation 5 release on November 20.
– Some users expressed dissatisfaction with Game Pass hosting unfinished games that are removed once fixed, coinciding with a recent 50% price increase for the Ultimate tier.
– Games leaving Game Pass are available with a discount, and Stalker 2 on PS5 will feature DualSense support with enhancements for PS5 Pro in development.
The upcoming removal of Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl from Xbox Game Pass has ignited significant frustration among subscribers, with the title scheduled to depart the service on November 16, 2025. Developed by Ukrainian studio GSC Game World, the game originally launched as an Xbox console exclusive following substantial marketing support from Microsoft, including a documentary highlighting the team’s perseverance during Russia’s invasion. Its exit from the subscription catalog comes just days before its anticipated PlayStation 5 debut on November 20, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from the community.
Many players argue the timing feels particularly unfair. After a troubled launch filled with technical issues, Stalker 2 has only recently reached a stable state through numerous patches. The impending 1.7 update promises further refinements, making its removal now seem poorly planned. Subscribers feel they are losing access just as the experience becomes truly worthwhile.
Online discussions reveal a divided audience. Some point out that one-year licensing agreements are common for third-party games on Game Pass, making this departure predictable. Others, however, contend that the situation sets a worrying precedent. They believe games that launched in an unfinished state, requiring a full year of patches to become properly playable, should remain accessible to subscribers longer as a gesture of goodwill.
The controversy is amplified by Microsoft’s recent decision to raise Game Pass Ultimate’s monthly price to $29.99, a 50% increase. While the company justified the hike by promising more day-one releases and adding new perks like Ubisoft+ Classics, many members feel the value proposition is weakening if acclaimed but initially flawed titles are removed shortly after they are finally fixed.
Community sentiment suggests a growing weariness with using a premium subscription as a testing ground for games that are not ready for release. Comments from players indicate a sense of betrayal, as they supported the title through its difficult launch only to see it leave the service just as it hits its stride. For those still interested in owning the game, a 20% discount is available for a limited time before it leaves Game Pass.
Meanwhile, the PlayStation 5 version of Stalker 2 is launching with complete support for the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. Enhancements for the PS5 Pro are also reportedly in development, offering a polished experience for new players on a different platform.
(Source: IGN)
