Stalcraft: Xis a game that offers a lot of freedom. Sometimes, this freedom can feel like a dual-edged sword as the game puts you in a world that is equal parts punishing and rewarding. Focused on survival and looting, the game offers players a chance to become part of a faction.

It may seem alluring to join a faction simply out of the philosophy it follows, but there’s a lot more to it. Being in the right faction can completely change your experience. It can make your life in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone much simpler, adventurous, and tuned to your playstyle.

Stalcraft X’s Stalkers Faction showcased in the game as intro screen.

What Are The Factions?

When you complete the tutorial in Stalcraft: X, you’re presented with two choices: choose to work withThe StalkersorThe Bandits.

These are two distinct groups of survivors who follow different philosophies. Members of The Stalkers are attuned to a sense of brotherhood and a life of law and authority.

Stalcraft X’s Bandits faction showcased in the game through intro screen.

On the other hand, The Bandits thrive on a life of crime and unpredictability. On a gameplay level, these factionsoperate in different zonesand often havedifferent questlines.

Changing your Faction later is only possible if youcreate a new character. So choose wisely!

Which Faction Is The Best?

For newcomers to the game, an easy pick would be togo with The Bandits. This faction hasbetter areas of the mapto explore that help your farm for resources as well asearn money much faster.

More importantly, certain quests rewardspecific weapons based on which factionthey belong to. In the case of The Bandits, there’s a chance to earndeadly weapons such as the SIG-550 and SVDthat are locked to a single faction.

As you progress through the game, making the move from your base to the farming areas becomes a lot easier if your Bandit camp is set up accordingly. Hence, this faction is a practical choice.