Complete Guide to Escape from Tarkov - Maps, Gameplay, Factions, Tips

Introduction to Escape from Tarkov

Escape from Tarkov is a hardcore and realistic online first-person action RPG/Simulator with MMO features developed by Russian studio Battlestate Games. Set in the fictional Norvinsk region in north-western Russia, around a "special economic zone" that served as a gateway between Russia and Europe, the game revolves around a political scandal involving corporations fighting for power in the city of Tarkov. Players take the role of one of the mercenaries fighting in the city.

The game features multiple playable maps located in the Norvinsk region, with urban locations like Factories, Customs, Woods, Shoreline and Lighthouse to Suburbs, along with an Arena mode for PVP fights. The locations are highly detailed with office buildings, warehouses, farms, stores, construction zones and more for players to fight through. The maps also feature dynamic weather like rain, fog, wind and more to add to the immersion.

Gameplay Features

Escape from Tarkov aims for maximum realism in its gameplay. The game features in-depth and customizable weapon modding, including parts like stocks, barrels, dust covers, magazines, sights and more. Ammo types also play a big role, with over 60 types available and realistic ballistics and penetration modeling. Medical items like bandages, painkillers, splints and surgery kits add to the hardcore nature of the game.

The game features a complex and in-depth inventory management system for looting items, along with features like searching containers and character interaction. The economy is also realistic, with loot having real-world value and requiring extraction by the players to secure it.

The game features a mixture of PvP and PvE elements, with players encountering AI Scavs to fight as well as the presence of other players in multiplayer raids. Players need to extract from raids safely by finding extraction points present on the map.

Key Gameplay Elements

• In-depth weapon modding system
• Realistic ballistics and ammo modeling
• Medical treatments and injuries
• Hardcore inventory management
• PvP and PvE elements
• Raids with extraction gameplay
• Economy with loot having real value

Facts about Escape from Tarkov

Here are some key facts about Escape from Tarkov:

• Developed and published by Russian studio Battlestate Games
• Announced in December 2016, entered closed alpha testing in 2017
• Uses Unity engine with proprietary network framework
• Set in fictional Norvinsk region near Russia
• Multiple editions available - Standard, Left Behind, Prepare for Escape
• 4 planned DLCs - Streets of Tarkov, Terminal, Suburbs, Town
• Features multiple inventory sizes based on edition
• 4 planned playable factions - USEC, BEAR, Scavs, UN Peacekeepers
• Features raids in online multiplayer as well as offline mode with AI
• Unique mixture of loot-shoot mechanics with survival elements

Character Factions

There are several playable factions planned for Escape from Tarkov:

USEC

USEC (United Security) is one of the two initial playable factions, consists of western Private Military Contractors employed by TerraGroup. USEC features western/NATO weaponry.

BEAR

BEAR (Battle Encounter Assault Regiment) is the other initial playable faction, consists of Russian forces likely tied to Eastern bloc companies. BEAR features eastern/Russian weaponry.

Scavs

Scavs are the AI faction and AI Scavs can be played after gaining experience. Scavs feature a mixture of gear and weapons.

United Nations

United Nations faction is planned for the future as Peacekeepers tied to the UN. They are intended to curb the violence between factions.

Maps

Some of the notable maps in Escape from Tarkov:

Customs

Customs is a location next to the port area with warehouses, construction zones and buildings. Features early quests and is beginner friendly.

Factory

Factory is a PvP focused CQB heavy map with many indoor zones, hallways and offices. Fast-paced action.

Woods

Woods is an open wilderness map with forest areas, abandoned villages, camps and facilities. Large map with sniping opportunities.

Interchange

Interchange is a large shopping mall location with different stores, a cinema, parking garage and offices. Great for loot runs.

Labs

Labs is a top secret laboratory location with high tech zones, medical facilities and valuable loot. Requires access keycard.

Beginner Tips

Here are some useful beginner tips for starting out in Escape from Tarkov:

• Learn extraction points on maps and plan your route
• Insure your gear for returns on death
• Stealth is important - move carefully, don't run everywhere
• Pick your fights wisely, don't take every engagement
• Scav runs are free, use them when short on gear
• Sell unneeded items to traders for money
• Complete quests to gain trader reputation and EXP
• Watch streams and guides to learn the maps

Conclusion

Escape from Tarkov provides a unique looter shooter experience, blending RPG mechanics with a story-driven walkthrough while providing plenty of room for multiplayer combat, trading, and exploring. The game continues to grow with new content, maps, weapons and gear added in every major patch. With intense firefights and engaging progression systems, Escape from Tarkov stands out as one of the most hardcore and realistic shooters out there.

FAQs

What are the system requirements for Escape from Tarkov?

The minimum system requirements are Windows 7/8/10, dual core processor, 8GB RAM, and a GTX 770/AMD R9 280X graphics card. 16GB RAM is recommended for smooth performance.

What editions of Escape from Tarkov are available?

There are 3 main editions - Standard Edition, Left Behind Edition, and Edge of Darkness Edition, with higher editions having more inventory size and starter equipment.

How can I increase stash size in Escape from Tarkov?

Stash size is based on your edition of the game. You can upgrade editions to get a bigger stash. Also, some hideout upgrades increase stash size.

Is Escape from Tarkov free to play?

No, Escape from Tarkov is a buy to play game purchase required. There is no free trial available currently.

How long do raids last in Escape from Tarkov?

Raids typically last around 40-50 minutes. Player scavs can join mid-raid after about 10 mins. Raids end early if all players extract.