Chimera

The  is a mutant variety found in all S.T.A.L.K.E.R. games except S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl.

"1.4m in length. The result of genetic experimentation. Extremely cunning, strong and fast creature; it hides, flanks, and circles around to attack its prey from behind. It has a doubled system of internal organs and an additional brain, both which make this creature problematic to kill, at the very least. It can also heal itself by regeneration of lost cells. It has almost no natural predators in the Zone and is considered the Zone's greatest hunter. Its movement and agility is reminiscent of a panther. The only worthy opponents for this creature are the Bloodsucker and the Pseudogiant."

- encyclopedia description

Overview

 * As noted, the Chimera should not be trifled with:

1.4m in length. The result of genetic experimentation. Extremely cunning, strong, and fast creature; it hides, flanks, and circles around to attack its prey from behind. It has a doubled system of internal organs and an additional brain, both which make this creature problematic to kill, at the very least. It can also heal itself by regeneration of lost cells. It has almost no natural predators in the Zone and is considered the Zone's greatest hunter. Its movement and agility is reminiscent of a panther. The only worthy opponents for this creature are the Bloodsucker and Pseudogiant.

Biology

 * The Chimera is a hairless cat/dog-like creature, close to the size of an adult lion, with two heads and a broad tail. Chimeras are extremely strong and they're able to turn a car over alone. They are the most deadly mutant encountered, jumping incredible distances and doing extreme damage. Though physically weaker than a Pseudogiant, the Chimera is considered deadlier due to its extremely fast speeds and aggressiveness.
 * Chimeras are faster, smarter, and stronger than the majority of other mutants in the Zone, be they created through scientific methods or natural mutation. Most of their internal organs have duplicated, meaning they can take damage to some without being impeded significantly.

Gameplay

 * Although formidable as an opponent, a pump-action shotgun with buckshot is very effective at middle to short range.
 * Attempting to lead these mutants into anomalies or anomaly clusters is less effective than with other mutants. Possible reasons for this may range from their speed and the associated momentum they derive in their charges to an inherent resistance to such environmental hazards.

Trivia

 * In v1.4002 there are now six of these creatures stationed above and around the Water Dam in Countryside.