How do I start the Cost of Hope DLC?

The DLC content is split between two parts of the game. The first becomes available shortly after leaving the Lesser Zone closer to the beginning of the game, while the second unlocks after completing the A Minor Incident main story mission.

• For player’s convenience, we've added shortcuts to the main menu that let you skip directly to the DLC content. If you choose to use this feature, there are several options available.
• Select New Game → DLC Content, then choose Skip Ahead to The Cost of Hope.
• Early Start skips the game to the point where the first part of the DLC becomes available. Advanced Start skips ahead to a later stage of the main story, where both parts of the DLC are available.
• Advanced Start places you at a point in the game where several faction-related choices have already been made in the main story. Choose Advanced Start – Spark or Advanced Start – Ward, depending on your preference. This choice does not affect the DLC content. It only applies to the main game and its storyline.
• For players focused on the DLC, Advanced Start is the recommended option. All Update 2.0 features are available regardless of your starting point, while the open-world structure allows you to leave the DLC path at any time and freely explore the Zone. 

Can I start the DLC with an existing save?

Yes. Any save created before the point of no return can be used.

If your latest save is beyond the point of no return, the game will provide you a pre-point-of-no-return save so you can experience the DLC.

Can I play the DLC after finishing the main story?

Yes. If you've already completed the main story, you can start a new campaign and select the provided pre-point-of-no-return save to access the DLC.

Does the DLC require a new playthrough?

No. You can continue with your existing playthrough, provided it is before the point of no return.

Can I leave the DLC areas and return later?

Yes. You're free to leave and return whenever you like, unless you're in the middle of a quest that takes place inside an underground location.

Story & Gameplay

How long is the Cost of Hope DLC?

The DLC offers dozens of hours of gameplay.

What new regions are included?

The DLC introduces several big locations to explore - including, but not limited to:

• Iron Forest
• Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant

The others are for you to discover and explore.

Do I need to finish the main story to understand the DLC?

No. The DLC story goes in parallel with the main storyline 

Does the DLC change the ending of the base game?

No. The DLC tells its own story and does not affect the endings of the main game. Yet, your choices are as important as ever, since they will change not just the fates of Duty and Freedom, but the Zone herself. 

Can choices made during my main playthrough affect the DLC?

No - but completing the main walkthrough with Cost of Hope content installed is the most organic and fulfilling way to experience S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 so far. 

Installation & Access

How do I fix the DLC not appearing?

First, verify that:

• The DLC is available and installed through your platform's store.
• The DLC is enabled in your game's properties or DLC management section on your platform.
• Consider verifying your installed files through a digital shop or reinstalling the content completely if everything else fails. 

Is Cost of Hope included in the Ultimate Edition?

Yes. If you own the Ultimate Edition, the DLC is included. Simply install it and launch the game.

I own the Standard Edition. How do I get the DLC?

Cost of Hope is available as a separate purchase through your platform's digital store.Or you can consider upgrading to Ultimate Edition of the game with the corresponding Upgrade Path. 

Is an internet connection required after installation?

No, unless your gaming platform requires an online connection for licence verification.

Will installing the DLC affect my current saves?

No. Installing the DLC does not modify your existing save files.

Can I disable the DLC and continue using the same saves?

No. Once a save has been played with the DLC installed, it cannot be loaded without the DLC.

Equipment & Progression

How many new weapons are included?

The DLC adds 4 new weapons, alongside unique modifications and attachments. 

Does the DLC have branching story paths?

Yes. The story includes two distinct branches, centred around the Duty and Freedom factions. You can not see everything in one walkthrough. 

Which factions are affected by my choices?

Your decisions throughout the DLC primarily affect your reputation with Duty and Freedom.

Is the DLC harder than the main game?

S.T.A.L.K.E.R. in general is supposed to be a hard experience, with survival playing one of the key roles. Still, with Update 2.0 (available for free to every owner of the game), we introduced highly customizable difficulty options. You can literally tailor your experience to almost any preference you have. .

Enemies & Achievements

Are there new achievements?

Yes. Cost of Hope includes a number of new achievements, including several hidden achievements for players to discover.