Russia has been known to sabotage and interfere with Ukrainian culture for years. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, a game created by the Ukrainian studio GSC Game World, is the most recent example of Russia’s attempts to stifle Ukrainian culture. This game faced multiple setbacks before it was released on November 20 this year, with Russia’s full-scale invasion being the most brutal. The developers’ team had to preserve in the face of constant shellings, blackouts, and even the loss of their fellow team members Volodymyr Yezhov, a game designer, and Oleksiy Khilsky, a lead actor, who defended Ukraine on the frontline.
The game became a symbol of Ukrainian culture preserving against all odds, which caused Russia to try and undermine the game’s success. In 2023 Russian hackers attempted to blackmail the studio into calling off the release unless Russian voice-overs are added to the game. When their efforts weren’t successful, they proceeded to try and discredit the game after its release by pirating the game, creating mods to change its content, and mocking Ukrainian culture.
Despite their efforts, the game prevailed and became an absolute success, selling a million copies within the first two days after release. Even more, it brought the whole world’s attention to Ukraine’s cultural richness and became yet another proof of the Ukrainian people’s strength.
How you can help Ukraine against Russian aggression:
Come back alive – https://bit.ly/3Ct6O2L (works directly with the command and personnel of military units, purchasing infrared thermal imaging cameras, night vision goggles, hemostatics etc);
UNITED 24 – https://bit.ly/3M2mXiT (launched by the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy as the main venue for collecting charitable donations in support of Ukraine. Funds will be transferred to the official accounts of the National Bank of Ukraine and allocated by assigned ministries to cover the most pressing needs)
Army SOS – https://bit.ly/3UYK168 (manages purchases of necessary ammunition, shields, intercommunication and reconnaissance facilities, etc. and delivers all goods directly);
Vostok SOS – https://bit.ly/3Ruut75 (raising funds for various needs of the army).