How to Use Flashlight in Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl?

After spending several hours exploring the dark corners of STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl, I’ve found that the flashlight is absolutely essential for survival. While the game drops you right into its dark world, it doesn’t explain one of your most vital tools completely.

Here’s everything you need to know about using your flashlight in Stalker 2 Heart of Chornobyl.

How to Turn On Your Flashlight

The process is surprisingly straightforward once you know how, though it’s not immediately obvious. Here’s how to use your flashlight on each platform:

On PC:

1. Hold TAB to open the weapon radial wheel
2. Press E to toggle the flashlight on/off
3. You can also use the mid button in the mouse as a shortcut.

On Xbox:

1. Hold LB to open the weapon radial wheel
2. Press the D-pad Right to toggle

On PlayStation:

1. Hold L1 to open the weapon radial wheel
2. Press the D-pad Right to toggle

When You’ll Need the Flashlight

During my playtime, I’ve found the flashlight essential in several situations:

• Exploring abandoned buildings
• Navigating underground tunnels
• Searching dark corners for valuable loot
• Moving through forested areas at night

The good news is that, unlike many survival games, your flashlight doesn’t require batteries or any other resources. It’s an infinite-use tool that you can keep on as long as you need it.

Here are some key strategies I followed during my time playing Stalker 2:

1. Keep it Ready: Since there’s no battery drain, you can leave it on in potentially dangerous areas
2. Quick Access: Practice the button combination until it becomes muscle memory – you don’t want to be fumbling in the dark when monsters appear
3. Strategic Usage: Sometimes darkness can be your friend – consider turning off the light when trying to stay hidden

Quick Tips Summary

• The flashlight is available from the very start of the game
• No batteries or resources are needed – use it freely
• Works while using any weapon
• Can be toggled on/off without interrupting other actions

As of the game’s release (November 2024), these controls remain unchanged. I’ll update this guide if any patches modify the flashlight mechanics.

Remember, while STALKER 2’s dark environments can be intimidating, your flashlight is a reliable tool that’s always available. Don’t hesitate to use it – the Zone is dangerous enough without stumbling around in the dark. Is anyone having specific issues with the flashlight system? Please send us an email and I will answer all your questions.