Controller

The  is a mutant humanoid found in all S.T.A.L.K.E.R. games.

"A human mutated by severe exposure to psy-emissions, usually seen near to the center of the Zone. Possesses good perception and the ability to control the behavior of less developed creatures with its altered neocortex. Mature specimens are capable of assuming direct control of several human brains at a time. This is a ferocious enemy, and even the most experienced stalkers are afraid of encountering it."

- encyclopedia description

Overview
A human mutated by severe exposure to psy-emissions, usually seen near to the center of the Zone. Possesses good perception and the ability to control the behavior of less developed creatures with its altered cortex. Mature specimens are capable of assuming direct control of several human brains at a time. This is a ferocious enemy, and even the most experienced stalkers are afraid of encountering one.

Biology

 * The secret service's genetic experiments on criminals generated a new type of mutant. A rare mutant encountered near the center of the Zone, it bears a superficial resemblance to a humanoid with a disproportionately large head. Despite their appearance, they are highly intelligent, possess good perception, and have the ability to control the behavior of less developed creatures. Mature specimens are capable of taking control of a human's mind. This is a formidable opponent, even the most experienced stalkers are afraid of meeting it. According to some stalkers, Controllers can make it seem that you are surrounded by your friends, but actually you are surrounded by zombies; or it might seem that you are walking on a pathway, but actually you are about to fall off a cliff.

Gameplay

 * The controller is slow-moving and begins his assault from a concealed location.
 * The controller adversely affects the player's vision from range, which in severe cases may quickly prove fatal in its own right.
 * The controller then approaches until line-of-sight contact is achieved and unleashes 'psy-bolts' that further weaken the already injured player.
 * Very few bolts are needed to kill the player.
 * Wearing several Ball of Twine or other artifacts with positive telepathic properties, significantly ameliorate the cerebral haemorrhaging experienced during such combat. Such objects may be in short supply early in the game.
 * Hiding behind something and sniping the opponent without allowing him the opportunity to use his 'psy-blast' could be a strategy if the player has suitable telepathic protection.
 * An effective strategy, if the player is able to close in quickly, is simply to knife the target repeatedly in the face. At close range the controller only has the claw attack for defense.

Trivia

 * As part of the Meet the Patriarch sequence, a controller spawns near Nomad's Belongings while the player is unconscious following the scripted Blowout.
 * By closing the hut door after entering, the future enemy is limited to the confines of the hut and may be dispatched easily.