STALKER 2: How To Unlock The “Catching Up” Achievement

3 Key Takeaways:

1. The “Catching Up” achievement is a fun challenge requiring you to shoot a grenade in mid-air. Timing and weapon choice are critical!
2. Shotguns won’t work you’ll need an automatic weapon like the AR416 to successfully pop the grenade.
3. Practice light throws (underhand) and use hip-fire for better control. Experimentation and persistence will get you there!

Achievements in video games aren’t just milestones they’re badges of honour for players who master tricky challenges. One such feat is the “Catching Up” achievement, where you’re tasked with shooting a grenade in mid-air. Sounds intense, right? Whether you’re struggling to unlock it or curious about tips and tricks, this guide has you covered.

So grab your controller or keyboard, and let’s dive into everything you need to know to claim this achievement for yourself.

What Is The “Catching Up” Achievement?

The “Catching Up” achievement is a unique challenge where players must shoot a grenade while it’s still in the air. It’s one of those oddly specific achievements that test your precision, timing, and ability to think on your feet.

Many players report struggling with this feat, and for good reason. It’s not exactly easy to hit a moving object mid-flight, let alone with the added pressure of finding the right weapon and approach. But here’s the good news: with the right strategy, you’ll have this achievement unlocked in no time.

Tips To Unlock The “Catching Up” Achievement

1. Choose The Right Weapon

The first thing to note is shotguns won’t work for this achievement. They’re not recognized in the game mechanics for completing this specific challenge. Instead, opt for a non-shotgun automatic weapon like the AR416.

Why automatic weapons? The high rate of fire gives you more chances to connect with the grenade before it hits the ground.

2. Use A Light (Underhand) Grenade Throw

A common issue many players face is misjudging the timing of the grenade throw. Instead of throwing it full force, try using a light, underhand toss.

Here’s how:

• Hold the grenade in hand and press LT (or your platform’s equivalent) for a gentle underhand throw.
• Aim slightly upward so the grenade hangs in the air long enough for you to react.

This method ensures the grenade stays in your line of sight for a longer period, giving you more time to take the shot.

3. Hip-Fire For Better Accuracy

Instead of using scoped aim, try hip-firing. Why? It’s faster, and you don’t have to waste precious milliseconds lining up the crosshairs. Simply point your weapon in the general direction of the grenade and spray a few rounds.

Several players, including Maka91 and Metal Wulf, swear by this technique, reporting consistent success.

4. Practice Makes Perfect

Let’s be real this achievement isn’t one you’ll unlock on your first try (unless you’re incredibly lucky). Be prepared to try, reload, and try again. Experiment with different grenade throws and weapon techniques until you find the sweet spot.

Some players suggest starting with a stationary throw (tossing the grenade at your feet or directly above you) to simplify the timing. Once you’re comfortable, you can attempt more advanced throws.

A Step-By-Step Guide To Unlocking The Achievement

If you’re ready to give it a shot (literally), here’s a simple step-by-step process:

1. Equip an automatic weapon (e.g., AR416) and grenades.
2. Find an open area with minimal distractions or obstacles.
3. Hold the grenade and use LT (or the equivalent) for a light, underhand throw.
4. As soon as the grenade leaves your hand, switch to your weapon.
5. Aim toward the grenade (preferably using hip-fire) and shoot it in mid-air.
6. Repeat the process until you hit the grenade successfully.

Once you nail it, the “Catching Up” achievement should unlock immediately.

Common Issues And Solutions

1. The Achievement Isn’t Unlocking

Several players have reported that the achievement may occasionally glitch. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Ensure you’re not using a shotgun.
• Try using different weapons some players report success with specific guns like the AR416.
• If shooting an enemy’s grenade doesn’t work, switch to throwing and shooting your own grenade.

2. Timing Is Too Difficult

Struggling to connect your shot? Practice light throws and experiment with hip-fire. If you’re still having trouble, try slowing the game down (if your platform supports it) or watching tutorial videos online to understand the rhythm better.

Other Fun Achievements To Try

While you’re working on “Catching Up,” why not tackle some other quirky achievements? Here’s a quick rundown:

1. “On The Go” Achievement

• How To Unlock: Eat bread and sausages quickly from your inventory.
• Tip: Always carry these items in your inventory for quick consumption.

2. “Goss” Achievement

• How To Unlock: Sit by the fireplace with stalkers near the first shopkeeper.
• Tip: Look for NPCs talking by the fire and join them.

3. “Keeping Your Hands Steady” Achievement

• How To Unlock: Drink multiple vodkas until your vision blurs, then use a shotgun to shoot through a fence.
• Tip: Avoid aiming down sights, as it forces your character to stand and resets the achievement conditions.

Pro Tips From The Community

The gaming community is always a treasure trove of advice. Here’s what fellow players have to say about unlocking the “Catching Up” achievement:

• Maka91: “Throw the grenade lightly (underhand) and use hip-fire with an automatic weapon. Worked for me on the first try!”
• ShailRaVeN: “I threw the grenade at my feet so it bounced in the air. Then hip-fired with the AR416 achievement unlocked!”
• Metal Wulf: “Underhand the grenade directly above you and spray with an automatic weapon. Got it three times in a row!”

Take these insights to heart they might just save you hours of trial and error.

FAQ

Q: Can I shoot someone else’s grenade to unlock the achievement?

A: Yes, technically you can shoot an enemy’s grenade, but it’s far easier (and more consistent) to throw and shoot your own grenade.

Q: Do I have to use the AR416, or will any automatic weapon work?

A: While the AR416 is a popular choice due to its reliability, any non-shotgun automatic weapon should work. Test a few and see what feels comfortable.

Q: What happens if the achievement glitches?

A: If the achievement doesn’t unlock despite successfully shooting the grenade, try restarting your game or switching weapons. Some players report this fixes the issue.

Q: Is scoped aiming better than hip-firing?

A: Not necessarily. Hip-firing is faster and more forgiving when it comes to timing, which is why many players recommend it.