Tarkov In and Out: A Beginner’s Guide to Surviving Raids

Understanding the “In”: Preparing for Raids

Escape from Tarkov. Just the name sends shivers down the spines of even seasoned gamers. The brutally realistic shooter pits players against a hostile world where survival is paramount, and every decision carries significant weight. Understanding how to navigate the perilous raids, specifically the “Tarkov In and Out” process of entering and exiting, is the key to not just surviving, but thriving in this unforgiving landscape. This isn’t your average run-and-gun; successful raids require strategy, preparation, and a deep understanding of the game’s mechanics. This guide aims to provide new and intermediate players with a comprehensive understanding of these critical aspects, equipping them with the knowledge to confidently enter Tarkov raids, complete objectives, and, most importantly, extract alive.

Understanding the “In”: Preparing for Raids

Before even contemplating stepping foot into the war-torn streets of Tarkov, meticulous preparation is absolutely essential. Going in blind is a guaranteed recipe for disaster. This preparation starts long before the loading screen appears.

Character Selection and Loadout Considerations

The first decision you will need to make is what character to play. Escape from Tarkov offers two primary options: the PMC (Private Military Company operative) and the Scav (Scavenger). PMC runs require using gear that you purchased or looted in previous runs, and are much riskier, because if you die you lose it all. Scav runs allow you to play a random character with randomized gear, and the main benefit is that it is free. If you extract as a Scav, you keep everything that you looted.

For PMCs, selecting the appropriate loadout is a complex balancing act of risk versus reward. Factors such as your current map knowledge, preferred playstyle (aggressive, stealthy, or somewhere in between), and, of course, your available budget all play a crucial role. A budget-conscious player might opt for a reliable AK-pattern rifle with readily available ammunition, while a wealthier player might prefer a heavily modified M4 or HK416 with advanced optics. It’s critical to research weapon and ammunition combinations. Some ammunition types are simply ineffective against armored opponents, while others can penetrate even the strongest body armor. Remember, a cheap gun with good ammo is better than an expensive gun with bad ammo.

Your loadout should also consider armor and headwear. Body armor protects against projectile damage, and helmets provide additional protection. Headsets are also recommended, as they will boost your hearing in-game, making it easier to hear enemy player footsteps and other audio cues.

Map Knowledge: Your Greatest Asset

Map knowledge is arguably the single most important factor determining your success in Escape from Tarkov. Knowing the layout of each map, including key landmarks, chokepoints, and extraction points, is invaluable. Familiarize yourself with potential spawn locations, common player routes, and areas that typically attract high-value loot.

One of the best methods for map learning is going into offline raids. Offline raids can be started without using any of your gear, and will allow you to explore the maps without any risk of losing your gear.

Several online resources provide detailed maps with marked spawn locations, loot spawns, and extraction points. Utilize these resources extensively. Learning the maps is like learning the terrain of a battlefield – it gives you a significant advantage over less informed opponents.

Pre-Raid Preparation: A Final Checklist

Before hitting that “Deploy” button, run through a final preparation checklist. This ensures you are adequately equipped for the challenges ahead. Medical supplies are paramount. Pack a sufficient quantity of medkits, bandages, and pain relievers to treat injuries sustained in combat. Food and water are also essential, as dehydration and exhaustion can severely impair your performance. Carry keys or specific items required for task completion or accessing locked rooms. Finally, carefully consider what you place in your secure container. This container allows you to keep items even if you die in the raid, so it is common to place keys and other essential items in the secure container.

Entry Strategies: The Initial Moments of a Raid

The initial moments of a raid are often the most dangerous. Knowing how to react immediately after spawning can significantly impact your chances of survival.

PMC Spawn Strategies: Reacting to Your Surroundings

PMC spawn locations are generally fixed on each map, but the exact spawn you receive is random. Knowing the potential spawn locations and the immediate threats in each area is critical. Upon spawning, immediately assess your surroundings. Are there any nearby buildings that could provide cover? Are there any visible players in your immediate vicinity? Make a quick decision on whether to engage, reposition, or remain hidden. Often, moving to a slightly more advantageous position, even just a few meters, can give you a significant edge in an early firefight.

Scav Spawn Strategies: Opportunistic Survival

Playing as a Scav offers a fundamentally different experience. Scavs spawn into ongoing raids with randomized gear, typically later than PMCs, and face lower risk. The main thing to remember is that most other Scavs will be friendly to you unless you shoot first, so you have the potential to form impromptu teams to take down PMC players. Playing as a Scav is a great way to gain money, learn the maps, and engage in low-risk gameplay.

Initial Movement and Positioning: Stealth and Awareness

Regardless of whether you are a PMC or a Scav, cautious movement is paramount in the early stages of a raid. Avoid sprinting through open areas, as this will alert nearby players to your presence. Utilize cover and concealment whenever possible. Stick to the edges of the map and use natural terrain to your advantage. Be especially mindful of high-traffic areas that are likely to attract early engagements.

Mastering the “Out”: Extraction Strategies

Extracting successfully from a raid is the ultimate goal. Understanding extraction points, planning your route, and approaching extractions safely are essential skills.

Understanding Extraction Points: Your Ticket Out

Escape from Tarkov features a variety of extraction points, each with its own conditions and requirements. Some extraction points are always available, while others are conditional, requiring specific items, timing (day or night), or player status (cooperating with a PMC). Learn the location of each extraction point on the map you are playing. Check the conditions required for each extraction point and plan your route accordingly.

Planning Your Extraction Route: Contingency is Key

Planning your extraction route is a crucial step that can significantly increase your chances of survival. Consider the distance to each extraction point, the potential for enemy encounters along the way, and the availability of alternative routes. Always have a backup plan in case your primary extraction point is compromised.

Approaching Extraction Points Safely: Clearing the Path

Approaching an extraction point is often the most dangerous part of a raid. Take your time and thoroughly scan the area for potential threats. Use sound to your advantage, listening for footsteps, gunshots, or other audio cues that might indicate the presence of other players. Clear corners and potential ambush locations before committing to the extraction zone.

Dealing with Player Encounters Near Extractions: Fight or Flight

Encountering other players near extraction points is a common occurrence. Decide whether to engage or attempt to avoid conflict based on your current situation, gear, and health. If you choose to engage, use grenades and other tactical equipment to gain an advantage. If you choose to avoid conflict, utilize stealth and flanking maneuvers to bypass the enemy.

Specific Extraction Tips for Popular Maps: Mastering the Terrain

Each map features unique extraction points with specific challenges. On Customs, be aware of the potential for ambushes near Old Road Gate and Trailer Park. On Interchange, Emercom Checkpoint and Railway Exfil are often contested. On Woods, Outskirts and Scav House are frequently used by both PMCs and Scavs. Learning the specific nuances of each extraction point on each map is essential for successful extraction.

Advanced Tactics: Leveling Up Your Raid Game

Once you have mastered the basics, it’s time to delve into advanced tactics that can further enhance your raid performance.

Sound Awareness and Audio Cues: Listening for Danger

Sound is a critical element in Escape from Tarkov. Learning to interpret audio cues, such as footsteps, gunshots, and reloading sounds, can provide valuable information about the location and activities of other players. Invest in a quality headset and practice listening carefully to your surroundings.

Utilizing Grenades and Flashbangs: Tactical Advantage

Grenades and flashbangs are powerful tools that can be used to clear rooms, flush out enemies, and cover your retreat. Experiment with different grenade types and learn how to use them effectively in various situations.

Team Communication: Working Together

If playing in a team, clear and concise communication is essential for success. Develop a system of callouts for enemy positions, movements, and loot locations. Coordinate your attacks and maneuvers to maximize your effectiveness.

Adapting to Changing Circumstances: Thinking on Your Feet

Escape from Tarkov is a dynamic and unpredictable game. Be prepared to adapt your plan based on the changing circumstances of the raid. Make quick decisions under pressure and learn from your mistakes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid: Learning from Errors

Even experienced players make mistakes. Avoid these common pitfalls to improve your raid performance:

• Rushing into combat without a plan: Always have a strategy before engaging.
• Ignoring your surroundings: Pay attention to your environment and potential threats.
• Tunnel visioning: Don’t focus too intently on a single target, or you will be easily flanked.
• Panicking under pressure: Stay calm and collected in stressful situations.
• Over-looting: Don’t get greedy and risk your extraction for unnecessary loot.

Conclusion

The “Tarkov In and Out” process is more than just entering and exiting a raid; it’s about strategic planning, skillful execution, and adapting to the ever-changing environment. By understanding the importance of preparation, map knowledge, extraction strategies, and advanced tactics, you can significantly increase your chances of surviving and thriving in Escape from Tarkov. Remember to practice consistently, learn from your mistakes, and adapt your strategies based on your experiences. Mastering these concepts will turn you from prey into predator in the unforgiving world of Tarkov. Good luck in your next raid and may your extractions be plentiful!