The Chernobyl nuclear disaster of 1986 was a pivotal moment which ultimately accelerated the collapse of the USSR, making it one of the most historically significant events in recent history. Due to the nature of the incident, a large exclusion zone was established to prevent radioactive contamination, leading to many speculations and conspiracy theories as to what may be happening there. It makes for an ideal video game setting in which treacherous conditions and a high number of life-ending threats combine to create an eerie and seemingly inhospitable environment.