Stakeholder Insights on VTSS, Data Leaks, and STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl

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The main data supplier for GSC Game World within the ongoing VTSS Bulletin is identified by insiders as the key link to STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl. This individual asserts that their access extends not only to VTSS but to the broader follower community around the project.

There is a claim that this person became VTSS administrator just before a previous leak, with the data they provided arriving a day ahead of that event. When asked about the data’s origin, the answer points to sources inside GSC itself.

Questions about whether GSC’s post-leak statements—that the data theft occurred via hacking—relate to these sources are met with denial. The interviewee says there was no attack, and that the studio management was misled intentionally. They describe the GSC description as full of inaccuracies and note that comments on a March 11 post made no reference to a hack. The party claims no responsibility was ever taken for the leak.

The impression given is that GSC did not thoroughly investigate or control the data that appeared publicly; rather, the studio used a narrative to elicit a reaction. If theft is ruled out, insiders are suggested as the true source of the leak, with the interviewee insisting they are aware of what is happening at GSC, supported by evidence like a 16GB data dump previously released with Heart of Chornobyl materials.

Regarding timing, the data were obtained in installments, with a March 14 arrival noted. When the leak was announced, the data were already out of the person’s control. They explain that publishing was not immediate nor premeditated, but a deliberate choice after giving GSC time to rethink their stance toward Russian-speaking players. The conditions were not met, so the data were released as promised.

Discussion turns to why insiders might plant a symbolically targeted GSC pig, with the explanation that some employees disagree with a far-right position within the company leadership. The interviewee condemns what they view as hostile behavior toward Russian-speaking players in 2022 and beyond, framing it as personal and organizational friction rather than a simple whistleblowing event.

When asked about Russians among STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl developers, the interviewer refrains from definitive claims, noting daily exposure to Russian-language correspondence among many GSC staff. The current Russian language focus on the game’s user interface and settings is highlighted as part of this linguistic pattern in development work.

Inquiries about GSC’s reaction to the leak and internal meetings yield limited information. A meeting occurred, but nothing of significance was disclosed. Outsiders still seek full transparency, but a firm no-comment stance is maintained on discussing further details.

The interviewee confirms ongoing receipt of information about GSC only to a limited extent, stating that agents were vetted and, if necessary, dismissed for failures or inconsistencies. They acknowledge continuing access to information, albeit under strict scrutiny and with administrative changes at the studio that affected data handling and distribution

Regarding the scope of the leak, the figure initially released about 30GB of data, but 16.5GB were published because the rest was not authorized for publication by those who entrusted the data. Insiders reportedly felt satisfied with the outcome and hints were dropped about future additional leaks, potentially including the unreleased data and other materials.

As for development, there is a claim that access to game files was tightened, reducing activity and slowing progress. Over time, files were moved to other repositories, with public services like Google Drive being used in ways that raised concerns about reliability. The studio’s leadership is described as paranoid or flustered, attempting to bolster data protection while sometimes making poor decisions.

When asked if the studio shows negligence in information security, the response describes a chaotic situation where many processes rely on verbal agreements and ad hoc actions. The pressure of upcoming deadlines is cited as a driver for perceived laxity: tasks are left incomplete, and preparations for a 2023 end release appear rushed. A revised schedule suggests a late-2024 or later launch if development continues under the original plan.

Contemplating the reasons behind early announcements, the speaker speculates about possible revenue from pre-orders rather than a clear strategic advantage. The individual claims GSC would only realize pre-order revenue after release.

The Ukrainian Stalker community’s reaction is mixed: some ultra-nationalist voices were exposed, while many normal players responded positively though in smaller numbers. Critics and rumor-spreaders amplified false narratives about the interviewee, but the speaker asserts no truth to these accusations.

On the topic of Heart of Chornobyl’s potential Russian hostility, the interviewee advises caution before drawing conclusions, citing the wide range of leaked concept and design documents and the unpredictable nature of the final game. The possibility of anti-Russian jokes or references remains a concern for the future.

Regarding personal gain, the interviewee states there was no monetary profit, only notoriety. If a later build is merged, it would be accessible without charge, emphasizing that no further funds will be sought.

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