Stalker 2: how Microsoft’s exclusivity affected profits

In short

• Stalker 2 turned a profit before release, partly thanks to Microsoft funding.
• The game sold 1 million copies in two days and has more than 6 million players.
• The first major expansion, Cost of Hope, launched in the summer.

GAME-scanner analysis

Stalker 2, developed by GSC Game World, has delivered a remarkable financial result by generating profit before the game was officially launched. This is largely thanks to financial support from Microsoft, which funded the Xbox exclusivity deal. However, the exact amount Microsoft paid for that exclusivity has not been made public, raising questions about financial transparency in the gaming industry. The launch of Stalker 2 on PC and Xbox Series X and S in November 2024, followed by its release on PlayStation 5 in November 2025, shows that the developers chose a phased approach to maximize their audience. The impressive sales figures of 1 million copies in two days and more than 6 million players are indicative of high expectations and strong interest in the franchise.

What does this mean for players?

For gamers, Stalker 2 is not only a financial success, but also an important addition to Microsoft’s gaming catalog. The exclusivity may delay access to the game for PlayStation users, but it gives Xbox and PC players the chance to experience it first. In addition, the upcoming expansion, Cost of Hope, could bring new content and gameplay experiences that extend the game’s lifespan.