'Critical: Organ failure imminent!': GTA 5's newest survival mod turns an irradiated world against you with shadows of Fallout, Stalker and 28 Days Later
PC Gamer
by Joe Donnelly February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Exclusion Zone, a new survival mod for GTA 5, transforms Los Santos into an irradiated wasteland where the environment itself becomes the ultimate threat. Created by modder VelyXCore, this mod introduces radioactive hotspots across San Andreas, with locations like Humane Labs and Fort Zancudo Delta posing varying levels of danger. Players must navigate these hazardous zones while managing radiation exposure, which accumulates over time and leads to organ failure—a mechanic reminiscent of the Fallout series. The mod’s UI provides clear feedback on radiation levels, with alarming messages like “Critical: Organ failure imminent!” adding a layer of tension.
The mod’s slow-burn progression ensures that staying too long in high-threat areas inevitably results in death, forcing players to strategize and adapt. Surviving requires securing gas masks and carefully managing time spent near radioactive hotspots. The mod also hints at future updates, including the ability to overlay its radiation zones on existing maps like Pripyat from the Stalker series, offering even more immersive possibilities.
This mod breathes fresh life into GTA 5 by repurposing its familiar open world into a high-stakes survival environment. It appeals to fans of post-apocalyptic games like Fallout and Stalker, while also introducing new challenges for casual players. By focusing on environmental hazards rather than traditional combat, The Exclusion Zone stands out as a unique twist on the GTA formula.
For gaming enthusiasts, this mod matters because it pushes boundaries in game modification by creating a deep, immersive experience that goes beyond typical mods. Its organ failure mechanic and strategic radiation management add layers of complexity, making survival feel more consequential. For fans of post-apocalyptic storytelling and environmental challenges in games, The Exclusion Zone is a compelling addition to the GTA 5 modding scene.
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Originally published on PC Gamer on 2/22/2026