Beginner's Guide
Beginner's Guide

Surviving in Tarkov: Core Tactics

In Tarkov, surviving — not killing — is what rewards you. Sound control, good positioning, quiet movement and health management are the core tactics for protecting your gear and extracting alive.

Manage your sound, listen for the enemy

Peltor ComTac headset — amplifies ambient sound
Peltor ComTac headset — amplifies ambient sound

Walk instead of running (Alt). Walking is far quieter and saves lives indoors. Metal floors are louder than wood; mind where you step.

Stop and listen. The direction, speed and distance of footsteps reveal enemy position. Most fights are won by the player who listens better.

Positioning and cover

Don't stand in doorways or windows; don't stay still in the open. Always be near cover and keep your silhouette small.

Sprint when crossing open ground, crouch when stationary. When taking a corner, peek slowly first — don't rush out.

Health management

IFAK individual first aid kit
IFAK individual first aid kit

Bleeding, fractures and pain must be treated. Bring at least one bandage and a painkiller every raid. Bleeding slowly kills you; a fracture ruins your aim.

An IFAK or Salewa is a good starter med kit. Stop bleeds with a bandage/CAT, fix fractures with a splint, kill pain with a painkiller or morphine.

PRO TIP

Don't take every fight. Retreating isn't weakness, it's strategy. Protecting your gear and playing another day beats dying in a bad fight.

WARNING

Heavy bleed (red, not green icon) kills fast and won't stop with a normal bandage — you need a CAT tourniquet or Esmarch. Always carry one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which medical items are essential to carry?

Minimum: a bleed stopper (bandage + CAT), a splint (fracture) and a painkiller. A Salewa or AFAK alone covers most of these.

How do I disengage from a fight safely?

Use a smoke grenade if you have one. Otherwise change direction fast, break line of sight while crouching, and move where the enemy doesn't expect. Don't panic-sprint in a straight line.

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