How to Navigate the Ribs Anomaly and Find Artifacts in STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl

Key Takeaways:

1. The Ribs Anomaly, located southeast of the Zalissya base, is home to a dangerous yet rewarding Artifact in STALKER 2.
2. Mastering the use of Bolts and the Artifact Detector is crucial for surviving the gravitational distortions in the area.
3. Each player’s experience with Artifacts at the Ribs Anomaly is unique, with items spawning randomly and offering varying benefits and drawbacks.

A Guide to the Ribs Anomaly in STALKER 2

In STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl, you’ll encounter various anomalies that distort reality and present significant challenges. One such anomaly is the Ribs Anomaly, found in the Lesser Zone southeast of the Zalissya base. This location harbours a gravitational anomaly and an elusive Artifact, but retrieving it won’t be a walk in the park.

Whether you’re new to STALKER 2 or a veteran of the Zone, this guide will help you navigate Ribs, avoid its deadly hazards, and secure its hidden treasure.

Reaching the Ribs Anomaly

The Ribs Anomaly is located just southeast of Zalissya, the first major settlement you’ll encounter in the Lesser Zone. As you approach the area, you’ll notice distortions in the air clear signs of the anomalies that lie ahead. These distortions aren’t just for show; they’re dangerous gravitational fields that can deal heavy damage if you’re not careful.

Before proceeding, ensure you have the following essentials:

• Bolts: To temporarily neutralize anomalies.
• Artifact Detector: To locate hidden treasures.
• Protective Gear: Radiation and anomaly protection can be lifesaving.

Surviving the Anomaly Zone

Navigating the Ribs Anomaly requires patience, quick reflexes, and the right equipment. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you get in and out safely:

1. Equip Your Bolts and Detector

Start by equipping both your Bolts and Artifact Detector. You’ll need to use the Bolts to temporarily deactivate anomalies. On consoles, you can access these items via the Radial Menu by holding the left shoulder button, while PC players can use the Tab key.

2. Scout the Area Carefully

Before stepping into the anomaly field, take a moment to observe the layout. Anomalies at Ribs often take the form of gravitational “bubbles” that can pull you in and inflict massive damage. They respawn quickly, so time is of the essence.

3. Neutralize Anomalies with Bolts

Throw Bolts into the distortions ahead of you. When a Bolt hits an anomaly, it temporarily deactivates, giving you a small window to move forward. Work your way around the left-hand side of the area, clearing anomalies bit by bit.

4. Be Quick but Cautious

The anomalies at Ribs respawn incredibly fast, so don’t linger. Make short, calculated moves to advance further into the area. If you get caught in an anomaly, back out immediately to minimize damage.

Finding the Artifact at Ribs

Once you’ve navigated the anomalies and reached the central area of Ribs, it’s time to put your Artifact Detector to work. Keep the detector active and follow the beeping sounds. The closer you get to the Artifact, the faster and louder the beeps will become.

Important Tips for Locating the Artifact

• The location of the Artifact varies for each player. This randomized mechanic ensures a unique experience every time.
• A pick-up prompt will appear once you’re close enough to the Artifact. Act quickly, as staying in the anomaly field for too long can drain your health.
• After securing the Artifact, exit the area immediately to avoid further damage from respawning anomalies.

What Kind of Artifact Can You Expect?

The Artifact you find at Ribs will depend on your playthrough. During one playthrough, for example, a Crown Artifact was discovered. Here’s a breakdown of the Crown Artifact’s properties:

• Weak Physical Protection: Offers slight resistance to physical damage.
• Weak Endurance Boost: Improves stamina, but not by much.
• Radiation Side Effect: Like most Artifacts, it increases radiation exposure. Be sure to equip gear or items to counteract this effect.

Keep in mind that Artifacts at Ribs, and across the game, respawn after emissions (in-game environmental resets). This means you can return to the area later to farm for different Artifacts.

Why the Ribs Anomaly is Worth the Risk

So, why bother with such a dangerous location? Artifacts in STALKER 2 aren’t just collectibles; they offer unique benefits that can significantly impact your gameplay. Whether it’s improved stamina, increased resistance, or other perks, these items can give you a crucial edge in the harsh environments of the Zone.

However, Artifacts come with trade-offs, such as increased radiation. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of equipping them and always carry anti-radiation supplies.

FAQs

1. Where is the Ribs Anomaly located?
The Ribs Anomaly is in the Lesser Zone, southeast of the Zalissya base, which is the first major settlement you’ll encounter in the game.

2. What equipment do I need to explore the Ribs Anomaly?
You’ll need Bolts to neutralize anomalies, an Artifact Detector to locate hidden items, and protective gear to minimize radiation exposure and anomaly damage.

3. Are the Artifacts at Ribs always the same?
No, Artifacts in STALKER 2 spawn randomly. Each player may find a different Artifact during their playthrough.

4. How do I use the Artifact Detector?
Hold the left shoulder button (consoles) or Tab key (PC) to open the Radial Menu. The Detector is located in the bottom left corner and can be equipped using the left directional button.

5. How do I survive the gravitational anomalies?
Use Bolts to deactivate anomalies temporarily and move quickly to avoid their respawning effects. Keep an eye on your health and back out if necessary.