STALCRAFT has launched a fresh in-game event inspired by a popular meme title, bringing the world of Rus vs. Lizards into its post-apocalyptic setting. The event, named Arena Rusov, began on March 20 and adds a new game mode along with collectible skins, weapons, and paints that nod to the meme project released in 2023 and quickly became a standout on the market. Players can experience this crossover content for free on both Steam and the developer’s site.
STALCRAFT is the creation of EXBO Studio. What started as a global mod for Minecraft set in the STALKER universe gradually evolved into a standalone game with its own engine and features. The game delivers a sprawling, open-world survival experience set in a vast post-apocalyptic landscape, including a recreation of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. Players can engage in both PvP and PvE activities, with non-linear story missions designed to unfold over many hours of playtime.
The ongoing development team behind STALCRAFT keeps the project fresh, rolling out updates twice a month that introduce new content, balance changes, and quality-of-life improvements to enhance the overall experience.
In Arena Rusov, players are split into two five-person teams and tasked with defending their idol against waves of monsters across a 25-round sequence. The mode emphasizes teamwork and strategic defense as players coordinate to withstand escalating threats while leveraging battlefield modifiers to create dynamic encounters. As rounds progress, players will face increasing challenges and opportunities to outmaneuver the opposing team.
Participants earn tokens through battles, which can be spent to upgrade equipment, acquire new modules, obtain blueprints for improvements, and adjust combat parameters. The system incentivizes experimentation with weapons and gear that provide advantages during competitive clashes, encouraging players to tailor their loadouts for specific scenarios.
Exploration remains a key element, with several distinct areas to discover. Some zones require a science suit to access, and these protective outfits can be purchased using tokens earned in combat. The addition of mission-critical gear adds depth to progression and rewards players for persistent participation in the event.
From the sixth round onward, the match environment is altered by modifiers such as darkness, falling grenades, and emerging anomalies. These changes ensure that each round feels fresh, demanding quick thinking and adaptability from both teams. The evolving conditions help keep battles unpredictable and engaging, providing a challenge that rewards situational awareness and teamwork.
Participants should note that Arena Rusov is a time-limited event, expected to run for several weeks. STALCRAFT remains available at no cost on Steam and through the developer’s platform, making it easy for new players to jump in and experience the crossover content first-hand.
As part of the broader STALCRAFT ecosystem, the Arena Rusov event showcases how the game blends its post-apocalyptic setting with community-driven memes and ideas, expanding the universe without sacrificing core gameplay. This combination of original design and themed collaboration reflects the developers’ commitment to keeping the game lively and rewarding for players who enjoy both PvP battles and expansive, story-driven missions.
[VG Times] Source attribution applied for context on event rollout and community reception.