The Great Emission, the largest outflow of warping energy since the second incident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, shook the world and changed the face of the Zone. The only chance to survive in S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky is to investigate the cause of the disaster and prevent cataclysms that may come in the future. FACTION WARIn the face of the biggest anomalies, emissions in the Zone become even less predictable. These changes destabilize the already fragile balance of power in its area. Fights break out between the groups to expand their spheres of influence and control over new territories and areas of artifact search. All feuds and friendships have become a thing of the past – from now on, everyone only cares about themselves. The Faction War has begun. To survive, you must join one of the factions and push your opponents out of the Cordon... or work for all factions at once, as befits a real mercenary. NEW PATHSThe safe and proven trails are a thing of the past. Familiar locations disappeared into impenetrable fields of anomalies, along with stalkers and entire expeditions sent. Territories hidden since the appearance of the Zone are open to you. Your mission is to become a pioneer and explore all the new areas made available in Clear Sky! SECRETS OF THE PASTWhat you play as a mercenary nicknamed Scar to play a pivotal role in Strelok's fate and uncover information that will shed new light on the biggest mysteries of the story presented earlier in the game. Visit familiar locations in their version of the past and take part in the events that have shaped the Zone in the years to come. The game offers: A prequel to S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl, which reveals previously unknown fragments of the history of the Zone and familiar characters and locations. New types of equipment and weapons: HPSS-1m pistol, hunting shotgun, RP-74 rifle. New locations: swamps, the Red Forest, Limańsk and an abandoned hospital, all full of new stories and quests. An advanced weapon and weapon upgrade system for technicians to power up and customize their favorite equipment. The ability to influence factions and the balance of power in the Zone through the decisions made. New anomalies and artifacts, and a system for detecting artifacts using detectors. Improved graphics, UI, and AI to make playing in sinister, contaminated areas even more enjoyable.