Escape from Tarkov

Escape from Tarkov is a tactical PvPvE extraction shooter from Battlestate Games. In closed raids, players meet other PMCs and AI-controlled Scavs, search for gear and must reach a valid extraction point to permanently secure their loot.

The appeal comes from the high risk of every raid: if you die, you usually lose a large part of the gear you brought in. Successful extractions, on the other hand, fill your stash and advance traders, tasks, character progress and your own Hideout.

Escape from Tarkov was released as the full version 1.0 on Nov 15, 2025. With this step, the game also officially came to Steam and left its long early-access phase.

The Steam version is not a separate game variant: it still uses a Battlestate account and belongs to the same PC ecosystem. Ongoing development takes place through updates to the base game and additional content.

Escape from Tarkov is currently available for Windows PC. Alongside the direct Battlestate version, the full version has also been offered on Steam since Nov 2025.

The Steam version also requires a Battlestate account, which can be linked to your Steam account. Steam lists online PvP and online co-op as supported features. A native console version is not part of the currently released platform lineup.

Every raid begins with preparing a loadout. Then you head to one of the raid maps, where human PMCs, Scavs and other dangers compete for positions, tasks and valuable loot at the same time. Only those who reach a suitable exit in time can safely take found items back with them.

Escape from Tarkov combines first-person firefights with survival and role-playing systems. Injuries, bleeding, ammo, armor, noise and positioning have an immediate impact on combat. Alongside PMC raids, Scav runs with their own gear are available as an alternative route to loot and resources.

The game includes additional expansions and edition bundles. On Steam, the PvE Zone is listed as a standalone add-on, among others. There are also expansion packs such as Left Behind, Prepare for Escape and The Unheard Steam Edition.

These contents expand or bundle the base game but are not separate main games. The focus therefore remains on the core game, Escape from Tarkov.

The current Steam minimum requirements list Windows 10, an AMD Ryzen 5 3600 or equivalent processor, 16 GB RAM, a GTX 1660 or equivalent graphics card, DirectX 11 and 80 GB of free storage.

Recommended are Windows 11, an Intel Core i7-14700F or better, 64 GB RAM, an RTX 4070 or better, and also 80 GB of storage space.

A key feature is detailed weapon customization. Firearms can be configured with numerous parts and attachments. Ammo type, armor protection and hit zones affect the outcome of a firefight just as much as recoil, ergonomics and sight systems.

As a result, a good loadout does not depend only on the nominal weapon value. The combination of ammo, armor, healing items and suitable configuration determines how well a build suits short indoor fights, longer distances or the cheapest possible runs.

Between raids, secured loot is managed and turned into long-term progress. Trader tasks, character abilities, crafting and Hideout upgrades all interlock.

The Hideout serves as a permanent base outside of raids. Upgrades unlock additional functions and crafting options, while trader progress and quests unlock new gear and further goals. This creates a recurring loop of preparation, risk in the raid, extraction and upgrades for the next run.