Delivery from the Past: A Guide to Surviving the Deadly Quest in Tarkov

Understanding the Quest’s Requirements

The air crackles with tension. Every rustle of leaves, every distant gunshot, sends a jolt of adrenaline through your veins. You’re a Scav, or a PMC, deep in the unforgiving world of Escape from Tarkov, and you have a task. A simple objective, on the surface: deliver something. But in Tarkov, nothing is ever simple. You’re attempting “Delivery from the Past,” a quest that’s a rite of passage, a trial by fire, for every aspiring Tarkovian. This quest pushes you to your limits, testing your map knowledge, combat skills, and, most importantly, your nerve. Prepare to face death, loss, and the constant threat of other players, as you navigate the deadly landscapes of Customs and Factory.

Escape from Tarkov, or EFT, is not your average first-person shooter. It’s a hardcore, realistic, online action role-playing game (RPG) that emphasizes survival above all else. Resources are scarce, and death means losing everything you brought into a raid. This creates an environment where every decision matters, and every encounter can be your last. You will be scavenging, looting, and trading, all while fighting to survive. “Delivery from the Past” is just the beginning.

This quest is about more than just completing a task; it’s about the thrill of the fight, the satisfaction of surviving against the odds, and the knowledge gained from each harrowing experience. This article will provide a detailed guide to help you successfully navigate “Delivery from the Past” in EFT, increasing your chances of completing this essential quest.

The quest giver, the hardened and experienced Prapor, will task you with this perilous delivery. He is one of the key traders in the game, offering essential items and tasks. This quest becomes available at a relatively low level, making it an early game objective. Completing it is vital for progression. It unlocks further quests and valuable trader rep, making your early game experience significantly smoother.

The core objective of “Delivery from the Past” involves two critical tasks:

• First, you must locate and retrieve the Factory Key on the Customs map.
• Second, you must then take this Factory Key and place it inside a specifically marked container located in the Factory map.

The reward for completing this quest is significant. You will receive experience points, a boost to your reputation with Prapor, and often a small sum of rubles or essential early-game items. The most important aspect is the unlocking of quests further down the line and the factory key itself.

Preparing for the Challenges Ahead

Preparation is the key to survival in Tarkov. Approaching “Delivery from the Past” haphazardly will almost certainly lead to your demise. Proper gear selection, map knowledge, and strategic planning are essential.

Think about what you’ll be facing. On Customs, you’re likely to encounter other players, both inexperienced Scavs and experienced PMCs looking for the same key. Factory, is an all-out bloodbath, a chaotic close-quarters battleground where survival depends on quick reflexes and superior tactics.

Gear Considerations

Your choice of gear can greatly impact your chances of success.

For Customs, especially during the key retrieval phase, consider wearing a decent vest and a decent helmet. A reliable weapon, like a modified AKM or a compact shotgun, is advisable for dealing with the dangers on the way. Bring a medical kit or two, some bandages, and a spare magazine or two. Consider a backpack with some extra space for the key.

Factory demands a different approach. It’s a close-quarters map, so a shotgun is often a favorite. The faster fire rate and devastating damage at close range make it ideal. A pistol can also be a viable secondary. High-capacity magazines will allow you to take on multiple enemies in quick succession. Armor is a necessity.

Map Mastery

Thorough map knowledge is crucial. Learn the layout of Customs, including the location of the Factory Key itself. Also know extraction points. Understand the common routes players use. The more familiarity you have with a map, the more control you’ll have.

For Factory, memorize the location of the container you are searching for. Learn the layout and the ambush spots.

Understanding the Risks

Both Customs and Factory are dangerous maps.

Customs is home to hordes of Scavs and PMCs. Be prepared for engagements. Scavs are often poorly equipped, but in numbers, they can be deadly. Expect other players to be hunting the same key.

Factory is a meat grinder. Every corner is a potential death trap. Expect intense close-quarters combat. The constant threat of instant death makes it a heart-pounding experience.

Navigating the Customs Map to Retrieve the Key

The first objective of the quest is the retrieval of the Factory Key from Customs. You must locate the key and secure it.

Finding the Key’s Location

The Factory Key spawns at a specific location. Knowing this will improve your chances of securing it. The most common and reliable spawn location is within the Customs Dorms area. Often, it can be found on the wooden desk.

Customs Strategies

• Route Planning: Plan your route carefully. Consider where other players are likely to be. Avoid high-traffic areas if you are looking for a quieter approach.
• Dealing with Scavs and PMCs: Scavs are typically less organized than PMCs, so be mindful of how you approach them. Take advantage of cover and use flanking tactics. With players, it’s all about the element of surprise and superior aim.
• Using Cover and Concealment: Use cover to your advantage. The map is full of cover, such as walls, fences, and vehicles. Use this to your advantage to protect yourself during engagements.

Key Retrieval Safely

Approach the key location carefully. Assess the area for threats before entering. Take the key and immediately make your escape.

Extracting from Customs

Know the extraction points. Some are permanent, while others require activation (like the Factory Gate). Plan your extraction route in advance.

Factory: The Final Delivery

Entering Factory

Factory is a different beast from Customs. Immediately enter the map with a plan.

Finding the Container

The container is in a relatively easy-to-find location on Factory.

Strategies for Factory

• Dealing with High Risk: Factory is all about high-risk, high-reward. The best approach is to move slowly, clear rooms methodically, and listen for the sounds of other players.
• Close-Quarters Combat Techniques: Practice the art of close-quarters combat. Prefire. Use shotguns.

Placing the Key

Carefully approach the container, place the key inside. The container has a limited interaction time.

Extracting from Factory

Make your way to your chosen extraction point. Exit quickly and safely.

Advanced Tips and Tactics for Success

To truly master “Delivery from the Past,” you need more than just a basic understanding of the quest. Here are some advanced tips:

• Timing: The time of day can impact the number of players on a map. Try raiding during off-peak hours, when there are fewer people.
• Squads: Team up with friends. A coordinated squad can provide security.
• Avoiding Campers: Be mindful of the campers. Use grenades.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Completing “Delivery from the Past” requires careful execution and strategic planning. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Underestimating the Challenge: Don’t go into the quest lightly. The risks are high.
• Inadequate Gear: Don’t bring a basic pistol.
• Lack of Map Knowledge: Don’t try completing this quest until you know both Customs and Factory.
• Rushing the Quest: Patience and caution are your best allies.
• Insufficient Supplies: Don’t skimp on ammo and meds.

Conclusion

“Delivery from the Past” is a defining quest in Escape from Tarkov, an experience that will test your skills and determination. This guide has provided you with the knowledge and strategies you need to succeed. Remember the importance of preparation, the value of map knowledge, and the necessity of adapting to the ever-changing dynamics of Tarkov.

Good luck, and may your raids be successful!