Stalker 2 is known for its challenging gameplay and lack of explicit guidance, making it essential to learn through experience and community tips. Here are some key things that Stalker 2 doesn’t tell you:

1. **Using Anomalies to Your Advantage**
– Anomalies can be used to kill enemies without taking damage. Place an anomaly between yourself and an enemy, like a mutant or blind dog, and watch as they get torn apart by the anomaly.

2. **Managing Side Missions**
– Be selective with side quests: Some side missions become unavailable after completing the first one, and informing the quest giver that you can’t complete the job might also limit future options. Choose missions wisely, especially those with high payouts.

3. **Utilizing Your Stash**
– You have a private stash in Zalissya, located in the back room of Hamster’s shop next to one of the beds. Use this stash to store damaged weapons or ammo you don’t need immediately. Your stash is safe from other Stalkers and can be accessed from other areas like Slag Heap.

4. **Trading with Merchants**
– Most merchants won’t buy equipment or weapons with red durability. This means the item is about to break and is not worth trading.

5. **Combat Strategies**
– Headshots deal more damage against enemies, especially those with armor. Aim for the head rather than spraying and praying. Switching to single-shot mode can also help.

6. **Fast Travel**
– There is fast travel in Stalker 2, but it comes at a cost. NPCs marked as Guides inside settlements can teleport you to other settlements you’ve already visited. However, hiring a Guide is expensive, so use it sparingly.

7. **Audio Cues**
– Pay attention to audio cues as they can provide crucial information about your environment, such as enemy movements or anomalies.

8. **Leaning Mechanics**
– Leaning can give you a better view and help you avoid taking damage. Use it strategically to get the upper hand in combat.

9. **Quicksaving and Hard Saving**
– Quicksave and hard save frequently to avoid losing progress due to mistakes. This is especially important in a game where death can be instant and frequent.

10. **Technicians and Merchants**
– Not all technicians and merchants are created equal. Some may offer better deals or services than others, so explore your options.

11. **Telling Time**
– In the game, you can tell time by observing the environment and NPCs. This can help you plan your actions and avoid certain dangers.

12. **Ammo Variety**
– Use different types of ammo to maximize your effectiveness in combat. Some ammo types are better suited for specific situations.

13. **Radiation Hazards**
– Radiation can be instant death. Be cautious of high-radiation areas and avoid them whenever possible.

14. **Eating Strategically**
– Eating too quickly can lead to hunger-related penalties. Manage your hunger by eating at strategic times.

15. **Stealth Kills**
– You can stealth kill enemies, which is useful for avoiding noise and attracting fewer enemies to your location.

16. **Unload Everything**
– Unload everything from your inventory regularly to avoid clutter and potential penalties from carrying too much.

17. **Attachments, Upgrades, and Modules**
– Understand the differences between attachments, upgrades, and modules for your equipment. Each has its own benefits and uses.

18. **Encumbrance Management**
– Manage your encumbrance levels to avoid slowing down and losing stamina regeneration. Keep your inventory organized and unloaded when possible.

By following these tips, you can better navigate the harsh world of Stalker 2 and increase your chances of survival in the Zone.