All Anomalies in S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 and Where to Find Them

The Exclusion Zone in Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl is a grim and mysterious place where time has frozen under the influence of radiation, incomprehensible anomalies, and mutated nature. Stalker 2 Anomalies in the universe are deadly, often barely noticeable traps that can turn a stalker into lifeless remains—or even dust—in mere seconds. Yet, hidden within these perilous phenomena are the rarest artifacts, true treasures of the Zone with unique properties.

These artifacts become the ultimate goal for most explorers brave enough to challenge the Zone. The ability to recognize an anomaly, avoid fatal outcomes or critical injuries, and retrieve an artifact is the key to survival and success for any stalker venturing into this dangerous land.

What Are Anomalies in S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2

Stalker 2 Anomalies are areas where the usual laws of physics are disrupted, creating deadly phenomena. These dangers appear as bursts of electricity, gravitational distortions, or even toxic chemical pools. Anomalies are rarely static; they can shift and expand, making them even more unpredictable.

Many anomalies are invisible, but their presence can be detected through sounds, light distortions, or environmental clues, such as scorched ground or debris floating in the air. Despite their danger, anomalies are the source of the Zone’s most valuable items—artifacts, which are highly prized by scientists, traders, and adventurers alike.

Here Are All the Anomalies You Can Find in the Zone

Anomalies are scattered throughout the Zone, often concentrated in areas with high radiation levels or places of historical significance. Knowing their locations will help you prepare for potential threats:

• Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant: At the heart of the Zone lies a variety of anomalies of all types. It’s one of the most dangerous areas to explore, but also one of the most rewarding for finding rare artifacts.
• Red Forest: Known for its high radiation and ominous atmosphere, it’s filled with gravitational and chemical anomalies. Its challenging terrain hides both dangers and treasures.
• Swamps: This marshy area is teeming with chemical anomalies, strange creatures, and hidden paths. Navigating here requires extreme caution.
• Pripyat: The abandoned city is riddled with anomalies lurking in its dark and crumbling buildings. Burners and electric anomalies are especially common here, adding to the tension of exploring its narrow corridors.

All these places are filled with numerous dangers, from anomalies to lone stalkers, as well as dangerous factions also seeking profit in these areas. So you need to stay vigilant, as any shift in the air could hide a threat.

Springboard

The Springboard is an almost invisible area of spatial distortion. When entering its range, objects and living beings are violently thrown back with terrifying force, often resulting in fatal injuries or severe damage. Upon activation, air distortions and a characteristic sound reveal its presence. This anomaly is often hidden in grass or debris, making it especially dangerous.

To detect a Springboard, use bolts by throwing them ahead. This will safely trigger the anomaly, allowing you to navigate around the hazardous area. Never rush through unfamiliar terrain without scouting ahead—it could cost you your life.

Vortex

The Vortex is a deadly anomaly resembling a tornado that activates upon approach. It pulls everything nearby into its powerful core, shredding objects, animals, and people alike. Signs of a Vortex are easy to spot if you're observant: swirling dust, floating leaves or debris in the air, and sometimes a low hum warning of its presence.

Always watch your step—Vortexes can be triggered using bolts, allowing you to safely navigate around them. If avoiding the anomaly is not an option, use artifacts that enhance protection against physical damage; they might just save your life.

Burner

The Burner is one of the most dangerous anomalies, forming on the ground as bursts of extreme heat that instantly ignite anything that comes too close. It is most commonly found in underground areas or confined spaces, where every step demands maximum caution. Its presence is often indicated by shimmering mirages or subtle air distortions.

Use bolts to trigger the Burner from a safe distance, and quickly move through the safe zones before it resets. For additional protection, it is recommended to wear a heat-resistant suit.

Fruit Punch

The Fruit Punch is a sinister anomaly resembling a shimmering liquid with bubbling acidic vapors. This deadly phenomenon can cause severe chemical burns and radiation poisoning upon even the slightest contact. It is most often hidden in swampy lowlands or flooded areas, where its reflections blend with the environment, making it even more dangerous.

Avoid contact with the anomaly and equip a protective suit with high resistance to chemical damage. Anti-radiation medicine can help mitigate the effects of radiation exposure if you find yourself within the anomaly’s range.

Electro

Electro is a bright and dangerous anomaly, manifesting as dazzling blue electrical discharges erupting from the ground. Its destructive energy deals significant electrical damage and can also disable any nearby electronic equipment.

Electro can be easily triggered with bolts. You can also observe its discharge patterns to safely pass through the area when the electrical surges subside. Protect yourself by wearing electricity-resistant suits and using artifacts that absorb electromagnetic pulses.

Lightning Ball

This anomaly takes the form of a moving sphere surrounded by bright electrical discharges, resembling living lightning. It follows a set path, turning narrow spaces into deadly traps. Its flickering flashes and constant crackling of electricity create intense tension, leaving no chance for those who get too close. Such dangers are a hallmark of Stalker 2 Anomalies, adding to the immersive and treacherous atmosphere of the Zone.

To survive an encounter with this anomaly, stay alert and study the sphere's trajectory, passing by only when it is at a safe distance. You can also use bolts to temporarily distract the anomaly, redirecting it to another area.

Poppy Field

At first glance, this anomaly appears to be a peaceful patch of land covered in flowers, a tranquil oasis amidst the chaos of the Zone. However, stepping onto this field overwhelms stalkers with an irresistible wave of drowsiness, draining their strength and leading to unconsciousness. With each passing second, the effects of this treacherous anomaly grow more dangerous, potentially lulling its victim into eternal sleep.

To counter the effects of this anomaly, carry energy boosters or endurance-enhancing drugs—they will help you stay on your feet. If you lack the necessary resources, it’s best to avoid these perilous zones entirely, as each step could be your last.

Glass Shards

Barely visible floating shards of glass, almost undetectable to the naked eye, conceal a deadly threat. Even the slightest contact causes deep cuts and heavy bleeding, as if the Zone itself is slicing flesh with cold precision.

To avoid trouble with this anomaly, move slowly and crouch if necessary. Use bolts to pinpoint the anomaly’s exact location. If you do sustain injuries, treat them quickly with bandages to prevent further blood loss.

Bubbles

These seemingly harmless bubbles conceal a deadly danger. When destroyed, they break into numerous smaller capsules, each delivering toxic damage that gradually saps your strength. They are most commonly found in areas with high humidity, where their presence blends into the environment, turning a simple walk into a deadly ordeal.

The best way to neutralize these hazardous bubbles is by using weapons to destroy them from a safe distance. However, be cautious—each shot spawns new, smaller threats, so ensure you have enough ammunition to deal with them completely.

Bulba

Bulba is a massive gravitational anomaly, embodying pure destructive force. It generates powerful pulses, pulling everything around it like a black hole and annihilating anything caught within its radius.

To survive near this anomaly, stick to the edges of its influence zone and avoid the epicenter at all costs. Throwing bolts can help identify safe paths and buy you precious seconds in this deadly section of the Zone.

Burning Fluff

This plant-based anomaly consists of dangerous clusters of writhing roots or vegetation emitting a glowing mist. When approached, it begins to pulsate, releasing fiery spores that cause burns and poisoning. It is most commonly found in forests or fields, blending seamlessly into the environment. Its surface is marked with dark, burn-like patches, and the surrounding withered vegetation highlights its deadly nature.

To protect yourself from this anomaly, it is recommended to wear flame-resistant suits to minimize damage from the hazardous spores. Avoid any direct contact with the plants emitting these fiery bursts, as it will bring unbearable pain and likely result in death.

Teleport

The spatial anomaly is a mysterious and dangerous phenomenon capable of instantly transporting objects or stalkers to completely random locations. Its effects are unpredictable and often result in fatal consequences, leaving little chance of survival.

There is no protection against a spatial anomaly—its effects are irreversible and merciless. The only way to stay safe is to bypass it at a safe distance, carefully watching for signs of activation to avoid falling into its deadly trap.

Why Anomalies Are Important

Anomalies in the Zone are not just deadly traps but also the source of the rarest and most valuable items—artifacts. These fascinating formations possess unique properties that can significantly enhance a stalker's chances of survival, provided they can be obtained. For example, the "Firefly" artifact, found in Electro Anomalies, restores health but increases radiation levels. The "Spring," which forms in gravitational anomalies, reduces the weight of carried gear, allowing a stalker to transport more loot. Artifacts are always tied to risk, but their value justifies any effort: acquiring them often means facing death, meticulous preparation, and frequently sacrificing scarce resources.

The main reason artifacts are so vital lies in their extraordinary properties, which result in their high value. Traders eagerly purchase even the most modest specimens, which can provide a stalker with ammunition, medkits, or equipment. Rare artifacts, on the other hand, become true treasures capable of transforming a novice into a legend of the Zone. Thus, Stalker 2 Anomalies are not merely threats but also opportunities. They turn exploring the Zone into a survival game where every discovery can become a step toward success.

However, the Zone does not forgive mistakes, and anomalies are just a small part of its deadly trials. Deadly enemies lurk in the shadows, their presence felt everywhere. These creatures of the Zone move silently and mercilessly, waiting for you to make a mistake or let down your guard. Any wrong move or moment of weakness could be your last. To survive, you must be prepared to face unknown threats that can appear at any time and in any place.

Conclusion

Stalker 2 Anomalies are an integral part of both the atmosphere and gameplay. They are not merely obstacles but a defining element that shapes the unique character of the Zone. Understanding the types of anomalies, recognizing their signs, and knowing their locations will be crucial for any stalker hoping to leave their mark. Whether you are hunting for artifacts or simply trying to survive, the Zone demands respect and caution. Equip yourself well, stay alert, and perhaps the Zone will reveal its secrets to you.