Best artifacts in Stalker 2, ranked

The best artifacts in Stalker 2 are indispensable tools for survival. Released 15 years after Call of Pripyat, Stalker 2 continues the series' legacy of intense worldbuilding, where human and supernatural threats are ever-present. While top-tier weapons are crucial for defending against enemies, it’s the artifacts that truly help you mitigate the dangers of this perilous world.

This article ranks the five best artifacts in Stalker 2.

Note: This list is subjective and solely reflects the writer's opinions.

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Ranking 5 best artifacts in Stalker 2

5) Weird Flower

Get this legendary artifact from poppy fields in Stalker 2 (Image via GSC Game World)

The Weird Flower is an exceptional artifact for Stalker 2 players who prefer stealth and strategic gameplay. It reduces the likelihood of being detected by enemies while you’re sleeping. The bonus is especially potent right after you wake up, giving you a safe window to regain your bearings without being caught off guard.

The Weird Flower is found in the Poppy Field, and while it doesn’t offer direct combat advantages, its stealth properties make it invaluable for tactical players.

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4) Compass

Compass is great for physical protection in Stalker 2 (Image via GSC Gaming World)

If you're looking for protection in the chaos of battle, the Compass is one of the best artifacts in Stalker 2. It provides exceptional physical protection, offering near invulnerability to bullets and melee attacks. However, it comes with a major drawback — a significant increase in radiation exposure. To counterbalance this, players need to equip radiation protection gear like suits or helmets.

The Compass can be found in the Cordon region, which is an optional area, but it’s worth the effort for the sheer defensive capabilities it offers.

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3) Weird Water

Weird Water from Stalker 2 (Image via GSC Gaming World)

Looking for the perfect artifact to help with carrying heavy loot and surviving in areas with high radiation? Weird Water is your solution. Not only does it increase your carry weight by 40, allowing you to haul more equipment, but it also offers solid radiation protection, making it easier to manage other buffs.

Weird Water is found under the Wandering Light in the Backwat area after progressing through Wild Island. It requires patience to locate, as the area is quite disorienting at night.

The artifact's only downside is a slight "drunk" effect, distorting your vision from time to time. However, the benefits far outweigh this minor issue.

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2) Hypercube

One of the legendary/best artifacts in Stalker 2 (Image via GSC Gaming World)

For those who like to play it safe and stack up defensive buffs, the Hypercube is one of the best artifacts in Stalker 2. It’s perfect for battling mutants and surviving in tough environments, thanks to its significant bleeding resistance and thermal protection. However, it increases your exposure to radiation, so pairing it with a counteracting artifact is essential.

The Hypercube can be found in fire anomalies, such as the Cement Factory near the Chernobyl Power Plant and The Circus in southeast Zaton. Though it’s a rare drop, its protective benefits in combat are well worth the effort.

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1) Weird Ball

One of the earliest best artifacts in Stalker 2 (Image via GSC Game World)

The Weird Ball is undeniably one of the best artifacts in Stalker 2, especially in the early game. It provides bullet damage reduction with no negative side effects, making it a must-have for surviving combat.

Located in the Bulba anomaly, just east of the first base in the Lesser Zone, the Weird Ball is a bit tricky to obtain due to the anomaly's ability to pull objects (and players) toward it. However, with some patience and careful movement, you can secure the artifact, which greatly improves your chances of surviving while staying mobile.

The Weird Ball is a top-tier choice for any player who wants an early advantage in defense.

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