Shift+W : Escape From Tarkov Patch 0.14 Initial Thoughts

I'm currently around 10 levels into the new Escape From Tarkov wipe, and it's been enjoyable, as the early wipe always is. The new map throws lots of low level PMC's (10 person map) on a tight map. Its chaotic, but fun. The loot is good and the pace is quick. I've completed the new intro tasks and am officially back to the normal Tarkov quest line. However, there's a small hiccup with the Luxurious Life task, the wine bottle quest, where the bottle you need has multiple spawn locations and looks identical to all the other bottles. It's frustrating to spend so much time searching in a corner shop with so many avenues of approach, fearing imminent death.

Fortunately, they're introducing gates and parity to the game with a level cap for the intro Ground Zero map. This involves filtering players below level 15 into the same raids and doing the same for those above level 15—a step in the right direction in my opinion. I hope to see this implemented for more maps, making questing more worthwhile, especially in early maps like woods and customs.

The new snow effect is a bit obtrusive. It's excessively loud and drastically alters sight distances, making it very easy to spot targets in defoliated maps. There's also a challenge in distinguishing tall grass from bushes since they look identical, only becoming apparent when you're unable to run. Nevertheless, it's intriguing to witness such substantial weather effects being implemented.

Overall, it's a worthwhile update for Tarkov players to get their hands on, offering good insight into the game's direction, and some much needed parity finally entering the picture for early levels. Happy raiding.