Escape from Tarkov has quickly developed a cult following among hardcore FPS fans. This multiplayer shooter throws players into a fictional Russian city ravaged by war, where survival depends on scavenging for weapons and gear.
Developed by Battlestate Games, Escape from Tarkov features stunning graphics and ultra-realistic combat mechanics for an immersive experience. Although still in beta testing, it’s already one of the most popular titles in the survival shooter genre.
As Escape from Tarkov is currently only available through the developer’s website, downloading and starting the game involves a few more steps than a typical Steam purchase. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get playing one of the most intense and challenging shooters out there.
An Overview of Escape from Tarkov
Escape from Tarkov is set in the fictional Norvinsk region of Russia, with players taking the role of either USEC or BEAR. These two private military corporations are fighting for control amidst a broader war.
The core gameplay revolves around raids. Players enter Tarkov’s zones to fight AI scavs and other PMCs, looting for weapons, armor, ammo, and other provisions that can be taken back out via extraction points.
However, with no extra lives, death means losing everything you brought in. The high risk gives every decision weight, making even small wins feel like major achievements.
This gameplay loop of gearing up, raiding, looting, and escaping drives the intense experience. On top of this, you’ll take on story-focused quests for the various factions to unlock new gear and options.
Editions Available
Before purchasing Escape from Tarkov, you’ll need to decide between four different editions:
| Edition | Price | Contents |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $44.99 | Basic starting gear, 10×28 stash size, 2×2 secure container |
| Left Behind | $74.99 | Larger 10×36 stash, extra equipment, all Standard content |
| Prepare for Escape | $99.99 | 10×44 stash, 3×2 secure container, bonus standing with traders, all Standard content |
| Edge of Darkness | $139.99 | 10×68 stash, 3×3 secure container, all DLCs included, all Standard content |
The more expensive packages offer more stash space for storing gear as well as larger secure containers for safekeeping items during raids. You also gain extra starting equipment and items.
I recommend Left Behind or Prepare for Escape for most players. But if you plan to really immerse yourself in Tarkov long-term, Edge of Darkness gives you the biggest head start.
PC Requirements
Escape from Tarkov has significant hardware requirements, especially for smooth gameplay and higher settings. Here are the minimum and recommended specs:
Minimum:
- Windows 7/8/10 (64-bit)
- Intel Core 2 Duo / i3 2.4GHz or AMD Athlon / Phenom II 2.6GHz
- 6GB RAM
- DirectX 11-compatible graphics card with 1GB VRAM
- 20GB storage space
Recommended:
- Quad-core Intel i5 / i7 3.2GHz or AMD FX 3.6GHz
- 16GB RAM
- DirectX 11 graphics card with 6GB VRAM
- SSD storage
- Dedicated sound card
Be sure to check that your PC matches these requirements before purchasing the game. Having enough RAM and a DirectX 11 GPU with ample VRAM is especially important.
Purchasing Escape from Tarkov
As Escape from Tarkov isn’t available on platforms like Steam, you’ll need to purchase directly from the developer Battlestate Games. Just follow these steps:
- Go to EscapefromTarkov.com and click on Pre-order.
- Pick the edition you want and click Pre-order.
- Complete the checkout process and account registration.
- Use a credit card, PayPal, or other supported payment methods.
Once the purchase is complete, you’ll gain access to download the game.
Downloading and Installing
After buying Escape from Tarkov, follow these instructions to get it downloaded and up and running:
- After purchase, download the Battlestate Games Launcher from your account page.
- Install the launcher and launch it when complete. Log in with your account.
- Click install next to the Escape from Tarkov listing. Pick an install location.
- The download will now begin. With the large file size, this can take a while depending on your connection.
- Once finished, the game will be ready to play! The first launch may involve additional installations and setup.
And that’s all there is to it! With the game installed, you can hop into your first raids and begin exploring the city of Tarkov.
Tips for New Players
If you’re new to Escape from Tarkov, keep these tips in mind:
- Learn the extraction points – These are key for getting out with your hauls. Study maps between raids.
- Insure your gear – Losing insured items lets you reclaim them. Prioritize insuring your best kit.
- Engage carefully – This isn’t Call of Duty. Approach fights tactically and use cover.
- Do quests – Completing tasks for traders unlocks new gear and levels.
- Join a group – Having teammates to watch your back is extremely valuable.
- Use your scav runs – These give you free gear to lose and help you learn the ropes.
With some careful play, soon you’ll be extracting fully loaded and ready to conquer even more raids. Good luck out there!
Ready for Battle
You now have all the key steps for getting Escape from Tarkov downloaded and launching into this intense survival shooter. The most important things to remember are checking your PC meets the requirements, purchasing directly from the developer, and using the Battlestate Games launcher to install.
From there, it’s on to conquering quests, vanquishing your foes in combat, and hauling out epic loots. Tarkov is one of the most exciting and challenging experiences in gaming today. With this guide, you’ll be ready to survive its unforgiving battlefields. Now get out there and escape from Tarkov!
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