Q: You're introducing a number of new gameplay features in Clear Sky. What's the biggest or most important, and why choose that?

Bolshakov: To me the biggest new gameplay introduction is the global war of factions, totally controlled by A-life, factions being much more developed and self-sustaining organizations. Each faction has a main camp, their leader, trader, mechanic etc. Other faction members perform certain roles too (such as artifact miners, guards etc.). We're also giving factions more individual character, such as providing special mini-games, unique animations etc.

Factions fight for a number of points, such as territories, resources and scientific locations, each trying to establish its domination in the Zone. Capturing territorial points allows a faction to ensure its presence on such important areas as crossing between levels, watch towers and so on. When capturing resources (artifacts), the faction becomes richer and can attract new and higher-profile members to its ranks. With more scientific points captured, the faction gets access to innovative technologies and gear - better equipment, weapons, protective suits (this includes new faction members joining better clad and armed). Thus, effectively, the war of factions is a live dynamic frontier constantly moving this way or another. The player will frequently witness local clashes between rival factions as he plays through.

As a s.t.a.l.k.e.r mercenary he is free to join a faction of his liking and bring it to victory, or stay away and not interfere. When in a faction, initially you're given a rookie status and will need to perform such cheesy tasks as 'go kill the wild animals around our base'. As you progress in the ranks, you'll be allowed to perform more complex, team-based tasks. The ultimate possible mission would be a plunder raid on an enemy base together with the best of your faction.