Stalker 2 Guide: How to Get the AR416 Assault Rifle Early in the Game

3 Key Takeaways:

1. The AR416 is one of the most powerful early-game assault rifles in Stalker 2, offering exceptional performance against mutants and hostile NPCs.
2. The weapon is located in the Checkpoint POI in the Lesser Zone, a heavily guarded fortress filled with hazards like anomalies and patrolling enemies.
3. This guide provides detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to obtain the AR416 while avoiding most of the dangers, ensuring you survive and escape with your prized weapon.

Why the AR416 Is a Game-Changer in Stalker 2

If you’re struggling to fend off Bloodsuckers, mutants, or hostile NPCs in the early stages of Stalker 2, the AR416 assault rifle is the solution to your problems. This fully repaired and powerful weapon stands out in a game where resources are scarce and most starting weapons offer lacklustre performance.

Finding the AR416 isn’t easy, though. It’s hidden in a location most players won’t even consider due to the dangers involved. But don’t worry I’ve got your back. This guide will walk you through the exact steps to locate, acquire, and escape with this beast of a weapon, all while minimizing risk.

AR416 Assault Rifle Location in the Lesser Zone

The AR416 is tucked away inside the Checkpoint POI in the Lesser Zone. This area is a fortress-like compound with armed guards patrolling the perimeter and deadly anomalies scattered throughout. Despite the dangers, the reward is worth it a fully repaired AR416 sitting on a workbench, waiting for you to claim it.

Preparing for the Mission

Before heading to the Checkpoint, make sure you’re equipped with the essentials:

• Healing items: You’ll need them if you take damage from anomalies or guards.
• A knife or melee weapon: Useful for breaking windows during your escape.
• Ammo: Although avoiding combat is preferable, you may need to engage a few enemies.
• A map of the Lesser Zone: Familiarize yourself with the location to minimize confusion.

Step 1: Navigate to the Checkpoint

The Checkpoint POI is located in the southern part of the Lesser Zone. Use your map to locate the fortress and head toward it cautiously. As you approach, stay alert for guards and anomalies near the perimeter.

Step 2: Stick to the Wall and Avoid Detection

Getting into the Checkpoint without being spotted is the key to a successful mission. Follow these steps:

1. Approach from the side: Avoid the main entrance, as it’s heavily guarded.
2. Hug the wall: Stick close to the boundary wall to avoid patrols and anomalies.
3. Watch out for the guard in the tower: Keep moving along the wall to stay out of his line of sight.

By sticking to the wall, you’ll bypass most of the perimeter guards and minimize your chances of being detected.

Step 3: Enter the Marked Building

Once you’ve reached the front gate, your goal is the building on the right side of the Checkpoint. Follow these instructions:

1. Enter the building quietly: Use the side gate to avoid unnecessary confrontation.
2. Loot the ground floor: Collect any food items, consumables, or supplies scattered around the area.
3. Head upstairs: Take the stairs to the second floor, where you’ll find a workbench.

Step 4: Claim the AR416 Assault Rifle

The AR416 is located on a workbench on the second floor. You’ll also find bullets and other useful items nearby. Once you’ve grabbed the weapon, it’s time to plan your escape.

Step 5: Escape the Checkpoint

Escaping the Checkpoint can be tricky, as guards will become hostile if they spot you. Here’s how to make a clean getaway:

1. Head to the roof: Use the stairs leading to the building’s roof.
2. Avoid engaging guards: If there’s a guard on the roof, avoid fighting them your priority is escape.
3. Drop down safely: Find a safe spot to drop down from the roof.
4. Use the watchtower: Head to the boundary wall and use the watchtower window to exit the Checkpoint. If the window isn’t broken, smash it with your knife or melee weapon.

Once outside the Checkpoint, keep running. The guards will likely pursue you, but they’ll stop once you put enough distance between yourself and the fortress.

Pro Tip: Head to Zelissiya for Safety

Instead of wasting bullets fighting guards, make your way to Zelissiya, a nearby safe zone. This will allow you to recover and prepare for your next adventure without constantly looking over your shoulder.

Why the AR416 Is Worth the Risk

The AR416 is the best early-game assault rifle in Stalker 2, boasting high damage, accuracy, and durability. Its fully repaired condition means you won’t need to waste precious resources on repairs. Once you have this weapon, even the toughest mutants and enemies will become more manageable, giving you a significant advantage as you progress through the game.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I get the AR416 without engaging any guards?

Yes, it’s possible to avoid most guards by sticking to the wall and using stealth. However, you may still encounter one or two guards, so be prepared to act quickly.

2. What if the guards spot me?

If you’re spotted, don’t try to fight all the guards they’ll keep respawning. Instead, focus on grabbing the AR416 and escaping as quickly as possible.

3. Do I need special gear to survive the anomalies?

While anomalies are present in the Checkpoint, they’re mostly avoidable if you stick to the marked path. You won’t need any specialized equipment to deal with them.

4. Can I sell the AR416 for a high price?

The AR416 is a valuable weapon, but it’s best to keep it for yourself early in the game. Its performance outweighs any monetary gain you’d get from selling it.

5. What other early-game weapons should I look out for?

Apart from the AR416, the TOZ-34 Shotgun is another excellent early-game weapon, perfect for dealing with enemies at close range.