Ukraine experiences nationwide Internet speed drop following S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 release

This was reported by RBC-Ukraine.

Vodafone Ukraine users were among the first to complain about significant drops in internet speed, especially with home fiber optics. The company acknowledged the issue, commenting that there was a "major decline in internet speeds affecting Vodafone users and other providers across Ukraine."

"Traffic has surged by more than double. The culprit? The release of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 and skyrocketing internet demand. We’re expecting things to stabilize soon!" the operator explained.

Other providers, including Triolan, Lanet, and Nashnet, cited the same reason for the slowdown.

"624.7 Gbit/s at peak traffic is way above the usual level — and this is just the start. Hundreds of thousands of ‘stalkers’ have jumped into the Zone all at once — downloading the game, live-streaming, and organizing marathons," Lanet announced.

For reference: S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is the long-awaited sequel to the cult-classic series beloved by millions worldwide. The game blends elements of first-person shooters, simulation, and horror.

GSC Game World, a Ukrainian studio founded in 1995, is behind the franchise. They’re known for S.T.A.L.K.E.R. and Cossacks.

• The game, released on November 20, is dedicated to Ukraine’s defenders.