Unlucky stalker

 is an optional storyline task appearing in S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Lost Alpha.

Overview

 * Introduced from v1.4002.
 * Has been subject to several revisions.
 * Has also caused confusion to many players.
 * The name of the 'wounded stalker' is random.

Gameplay

 * Will depend upon the version and at what stage of the game the player attempts the task. If the player can carry good telepathy and rupture protection there should be little difficulty.


 * Various peculiar sounds are heard as the player enters the Bandit Mine.
 * v1.4002+:


 * Karlitos and a Karlik spawn above after the Compass is grabbed from the mine workings. There are five crates hiding it but the player may jump over and grab to save time.
 * Killing the mutants ends the telepathic assault and the player may exit the mine.


 * v1.4007:


 * A Controller and two Karliks spawn after the Compass is acquired, but exit from the mine is restricted (the player is teleported back) until either the mutants are dead, or the Compass is worn.
 * If attempting the task early in the game (say - day two or three) the player will not likely be able to quickly deal with the opposition by packing sufficient "telepathy" and "rupture" protection at the same time without succumbing to radiation poisoning.
 * Since the controller spawns in the rickety anteroom of the mine, where there is no cover, its telekinetic blast is fairly lethal or disabling. Trotting Karliks are also pretty lethal at this stage.
 * Wearing the Compass allows for a strategic withdrawal, forces the opposition to approach the player's territory and gains a "Skill Point" for successfully leaving the mine.
 * Then deal with the attackers.

Trivia

 * The 'wounded stalker' vanishes from the board after he has tasked the player.