As somewhat of a latecomer to gaming, discovering Shadow of Chernobyl was a delight. I already knew of the RL Exclusion Zone, and the Stalker film, and indeed Roadside Picnic. The S.T.A.L.K.E.R. depiction of the Zone and drew me immediately and keeps calling me back. As I explore other games, I can see the influences of this one, and the nods from the devs, in many other titles.

Fantastic Fun and so much to do: story line, side quests, base building, farming, mining, starships, freighters, space battles...