The recent Xbox Games Showcase provided a first glimpse at a number of highly anticipated games. Halo fans finally got to see first gameplay footage for Halo Infinite and Microsoft proved it hadn't forgotten about Fable by announcing a brand new title. But, surprisingly, it appears that STALKER 2 was what stole the show.
As it stands the announcement trailer for STALKER 2 has more views on YouTube compared to the videos for Halo Infinite and Fable, despite not really showing anything aside from some creepy environments. While the confirmation that the trailer contained no in-game footage and was a target render was a tad disappointing, it doesn't seem to have killed fans' excitement for it.
According to developer GSC Game World, the trailer does demonstrate the graphical level that the team is aiming for, and it does sound like making the game look as good as it possibly can is a big priority, especially on Xbox Series X.
STALKER 2's listing on the Xbox store shows off the Optimized for Xbox Series X badge, along with a description which reads "Games built using the Xbox Series X development kit are designed to take advantage of the unique capabilities of the Xbox Series X."
It then adds, "They will showcase unparalleled load-times, visuals, responsiveness, and frame rates up to 120 FPS." While it doesn't specifically mention Stalker 2, it does suggest that high frame rates can be expected for any games with this badge. It being included on Stalker 2's page does send a message that this is something that the game will be trying to achieve.
It wouldn't be the first game to offer this level of visual fidelity, however. Stalker 2 isn't due until next year, while some games that are releasing this year will, such as the re-release of Ori and the Will of the Wisps.
It's also important to note that not every game with the badge will be taking advantage of all of the console's capabilities. According to Xbox, some titles like Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2 and Yakuza: Like a Dragon won't feature 4K resolution and HDR. This is likely because games like these will also be releasing on current gen platforms such as the Xbox One.
With Stalker 2 being an exclusive for Xbox Series X and PC, though, that should mean it won't be held back and the developers can take full advantage of what the new console can offer.
Stalker 2 will release for PC and Xbox Series X in 2021.
Source: Microsoft