S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow Of Chernobyl is an open-world FPS in a ruined nuclear wasteland. Set in a semi-fictionalised Eastern European landscape near a ruined Chernobyl, players must travel the unforgiving world fighting enemies of all kinds to uncover their own secrets.

Post-apocalyptic world

In such an over-saturated market as the FPS genre, S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow Of Chernobyl sets itself apart immediately by its tone and atmosphere. Set in a highly irradiated land filled with suicidal scavengers and mutated monsters, death and failure are around every corner. While the graphics are slightly on the dated side, this game's immense world and genuine scary moments more than make up for any ageing. Consistently at the top of fan's lists as one of the best modern FPS, S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow Of Chernobyl throws you into the deep-end. Players can travel openly with only their own skill as a barrier. Realistic touches like day and night cycles, tiny camps of bitter hunters and military outposts bring the horrors of a nuclear world to life.

Rise or fall

S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow Of Chernobyl is a master-class in atmosphere and difficulty. Players of more mainstream FPS games will undoubtedly die within minutes and experience a sense of frustration but should stick with it. This game doesn't hold your hand or point you in the right direction but it does offer a satisfying and brutal world. Highly recommended.