Summary
The documentary “War Game: The Making of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2” reveals the harrowing experiences of the developers at GSC Game World during the Russian invasion of Ukraine. As the conflict escalated, the studio’s leadership took preemptive measures to evacuate their team, showcasing both the urgency and the emotional toll of their decisions amidst chaos.
In February 2022, GSC Game World faced a critical situation as the threat of invasion loomed. Anticipating the worst, executive producer Mariia Grygorovych and CEO Ievgen Grygorovych organized a covert evacuation plan that involved booking buses to transport employees and their families to safety. On February 20, just days before the invasion, they successfully moved 187 individuals to Uzhhorod, a town near the Slovakian border, allowing them to escape the immediate danger. Meanwhile, 139 developers chose to remain in Kyiv, many of whom joined the fight against the invasion or provided aid to civilians. The documentary captures the emotional struggles of those who left and the resilience of those who stayed, highlighting their collective commitment to continuing the development of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 despite the overwhelming circumstances.
Evacuation Efforts
- Preemptive Planning: GSC’s leadership began formulating evacuation plans as early as December 2021, fearing that an invasion was imminent.
- Covert Operations: To avoid causing panic, the studio kept the evacuation plans secret from most staff until just before the move.
- Successful Transport: The buses were utilized to transport the majority of the team westward, enabling a swift escape from the impending conflict.
Resilience in Adversity
- Rebuilding in Prague: After the evacuation, GSC Game World had to rebuild its operations in Prague, including recasting actors and setting up new workspaces.
- Continuing Development: Despite the challenges, the developers remained committed to completing S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2, adapting to their new circumstances and utilizing whatever resources they could muster.
- Emotional Toll: The documentary poignantly explores the feelings of guilt and uncertainty experienced by those who evacuated, as well as the bravery of those who chose to stay behind.
The documentary serves as a testament to the strength and determination of the Ukrainian developers at GSC Game World, illustrating their fight not just for their game, but also as a form of resistance against the backdrop of war.
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