GSC Game World, the developer of Stalker 2, recently announced that it would be auctioning off a number of NFTs, giving owners a presence in the game, effectively letting them have their own faces on NPC characters. The backlash was, to put it mildly, rather explosive, so they've now backtracked completely, and said that they would no longer be selling them, and that fans would no longer be used for NPC faces.
The idea of adding real humans to in-game character faces is nothing new. Just look at Max Payne. But the tie in with not only NFTs, but the seeming desire to cash in on the term "metaverse" that Facebook so recently tried to coin, was bizarre. The materials announcing the news just earlier this week, said that Stalker 2 would feature "the first metahumans" in the "Stalker metaverse." Better yet, this was going to be achieved through the "metaversial bridge."
Otherwise known as creating digital assets based on real life pictures.
Hey bro - you don’t need NFT’s or blockchain to pre-sell unique customized stuff in your game. I’m not into that sort of thing because it’s, like, kind of a shittier version of ad placement. But it’s been done for years and you don’t need NFT’s to do it. Anyway - Love your work! https://t.co/QyKrsGE4oh
— Randy Pitchford (@DuvalMagic) December 16, 2021
Although GSC clearly expected pushback, saying that this didn't make Stalker 2 a blockchain game, it has been hit with such negativity, that it's now completely disowned the entire idea.
"Based on the feedback we received, we've made a decision to cancel anything NFT-related in S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2. The interest of our fans and players are the top priority for the team. We're making this game for you to enjoy—whatever the cost is. If you care, we care too. "
Good job everyone.