GSC Game World has scheduled the first substantial expansion for STALKER 2, with Cost of Hope arriving on August 20. The narrative-focused DLC places players as Skif investigating an unusual signal that grants access to previously unreachable zones within the game's irradiated landscape, whilst the competing Duty and Freedom factions reach an escalating confrontation requiring the protagonist's allegiance.

Alongside the expansion, the publisher plans to release a substantial free update that will modernise the game's engine and introduce additional content for the base experience. The dual launch represents a significant development milestone following the game's 2024 debut, reflecting ongoing refinement efforts by the studio.