14.5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Escape from Tarkov is a complex and often unforgiving game, leading to many common questions from new and even experienced players. This FAQ aims to address some of the most frequently asked questions, providing clear and concise answers to help you navigate the challenges of Tarkov.
Whether you're wondering about the best ammo, how to survive, or the intricacies of the game's economy, a broad range of topics. We've compiled answers to common queries to help you understand the game's mechanics and improve your overall experience.
1. What is the best ammunition in Tarkov?
The "best" ammunition depends on the caliber and your target. For player versus player (PvP) combat, you generally want ammunition with high penetration power to defeat body armor. Examples include M995 and M855A1 for 5.56x45mm, Igolnik and BS for 5.45x39mm, and M61 for 7.62x51mm. Always check ammo charts for the most up-to-date effectiveness.
2. How do I make money in Tarkov?
There are several ways to make money: looting valuable items and selling them on the Flea Market or to traders, completing quests, successfully extracting with valuable loot, and engaging in PvP to take gear from other players. Scav runs are an excellent way to generate income with minimal risk.
3. What is a Scav run?
A Scav (Scavenger) run allows you to play as a Scav, an AI-controlled character. You spawn with a random loadout and inventory. Scavs have a karma system; being friendly with other Scavs increases your karma, leading to better loot and AI Scavs being less hostile. Scav runs have a cooldown period.
4. How do I heal my character?
You heal by using medical items from your inventory or secure container. Different items heal different parts of the body or provide general healing. Splints are used to fix broken limbs, bandages stop bleeding, and medical kits (like Salewa, IFAK, or AI-2) heal multiple body parts and restore health.
5. What is the Flea Market?
The Flea Market is a player-driven economy where you can buy and sell items with other players. Access to the Flea Market is unlocked by reaching Level 15 and completing certain quests. Prices fluctuate based on supply and demand.
6. How do I get the Red Keycard?
The Red Keycard is one of the rarest and most valuable items in Tarkov. It primarily spawns in the East Wing of the Shoreline Resort, often in offices or on desks. It can also be found in safes and sometimes on high-tier Scavs or players.
7. What is "insurance fraud"?
Insurance fraud is a tactic where you intentionally leave valuable items in your stash or secure container before a raid, then die without picking them up. This prevents the insurance return of those specific items, allowing you to potentially get them back if they aren't looted by another player.
8. How do I improve my FPS?
To improve FPS, ensure your PC meets the minimum requirements, update graphics drivers, lower in-game graphics settings, disable fullscreen optimizations, and install Tarkov on an SSD. Closing background applications also helps.
9. What is a "wipe"?
A wipe is a server-side reset of all player accounts. This means your character level, inventory, trader loyalty, and quest progress are reset to zero. Wipes typically occur with major game updates to ensure a fresh start for everyone.
10. How do I deal with desync?
Desync is a common issue where the server and client are not perfectly synchronized, leading to players appearing in different locations. While frustrating, try to play on servers with low ping, ensure a stable internet connection, and be aware that it can happen. There's no foolproof fix, but minimizing ping helps.
Key Takeaway: Understanding these common questions will provide a solid foundation for your Tarkov journey, helping you overcome early hurdles and enjoy the game more.