Stalker games are known for being tough, but in Stalker 2, mutants seem to be on another level. Players are frustrated because even after firing multiple bullets, these enemies refuse to go down. This makes fights feel unfair rather than challenging. One of the most notorious enemies is the Chimera, which players describe as extremely difficult to defeat. Its high health and damage output has left many struggling to progress. Aside from that, even regular mutants feel overpowered.

Fortunately, modders have stepped in to address these issues. Two standout mods on Nexus Mods are helping players make the game feel more balanced while keeping it fun. The game already passed more than 60 mods a couple of days after launch and counting.

Mutant Health Nerf Mod by Grok

This mod reduces the health of mutants, making them easier to deal with. Players can choose how much they want to nerf the health pool, with options for 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80% reductions. For those who want a balanced experience without making things too easy, there's a “Balanced for All” preset. This preset keeps the challenge intact while ensuring mutants aren't bullet sponges.

How to install it

• Extract the zip file after downloading it.
• Select the pak files you want from the “Balanced for All” folder or pick individual mutant files.
• Add the .pak files to this folder:
  • Steam: Steam\steamapps\common\S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 Heart of Chornobyl\Stalker2\Content\Paks/~mods
  • Game Pass: XboxGames/S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2- Heart of Chornobyl (Windows)/Content/Stalker2/Content/Paks/~mods
• If the ~mods folder doesn't exist, create it yourself.

Chimera HP Nerf Mod by JohnCena1306

JohnCena1306 has created a mod for the Chimera, and it can help nerf the deadly enemy. This mod comes in three versions:

• Chimera HP and DMG Nerf: Reduces the Chimera's health and damage to make it more in line with other mutants.
• Chimera Health Nerf: Lowers the Chimera's max health to 400, similar to the original Bloodsucker.
• Chimera Health Nerf-Nerf-Nerf: Drops the Chimera's max health to 200, making it as easy to kill as a boar.

After downloading and extracting the zip file, choose the version you want and follow the same installation steps as the mutant health nerf mod. If you want another refresher, see our full ‘Stalker 2 how to add mods on PC‘ guide.

While these mods can help improve your gameplay experience, it is also important to keep in mind that they can sometimes end up doing more harm than good. So, if you notice any issues with your gameplay after installing the mod, simply go back to the game folder and delete the ~mods folder. Plus, the devs may address balance issues themselves at a later date.

About the Author

Abdul Haddi

Abdul is a tech writer and Editor for PC Guide, specializing in all things tech, gaming, and hardware.