S.T.A.L.K.E.R. - Zone of the Chernobyl

The Cordon is essentially the gateway to the Zone in the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. universe. It’s the first region stalkers usually encounter, serving as a transitional area between the relatively safe outside world and the deeper, more dangerous parts of the Zone. Cordon features sparse forests, rolling fields, abandoned buildings, checkpoints, and military outposts. It’s occupied mainly by rookie stalkers trying to find their footing, along with patrols of military soldiers attempting to keep unauthorized adventurers out. Due to its position as the entry point, the Cordon sees regular skirmishes between poorly equipped newcomers, experienced bandits preying on weaker stalkers, and heavily armed soldiers enforcing containment. Despite being considered safer compared to deeper territories, the Cordon is still perilous, hiding anomalies, radiation pockets, and occasional mutant threats.