Battlestate Games released Update 1.2.0.0 for 'Escape from Tarkov' on the 6th. The update focuses on the PvE mode by reworking bot behavior and spawn systems, while introducing the Prestige system—previously exclusive to PvP—to PvE. Server maintenance was conducted starting at 4:00 PM KST on the 6th to deploy the update.
The biggest change involves PMC bots in PvE mode. Battlestate Games stated that they redesigned the bot-to-bot interaction logic "to make the world more lively and unpredictable." The chance of PMC bots from the USEC and BEAR factions teaming up rather than being hostile toward each other has significantly increased, and with a low probability, PMC bots that remain neutral until a player approaches or attacks them will also appear. Conversely, the probability of neutrality toward Scav bots has decreased, leading PMC bots to engage Scavs and bosses more frequently. They will not attack Player Scavs first unless approached or attacked. The developer explained that this adjustment will reduce instances where PMC bots fight among themselves and die before players even encounter them.
Bot gear and difficulty vary based on level and faction. Low-level bots equip gear obtainable at lower Trader Loyalty Levels and pose a lower threat, whereas high-level bots carry better weapons and high-end gear, making them far more dangerous. Movement patterns have also changed; bots now more actively seek out points of interest and quest areas, appearing in locations they previously did not visit. The spawn system has also been overhauled so that PMC bots are always present at the start of a raid, with less variance in their numbers and a slight average increase. PMC bots have also been newly placed in the Labyrinth.
A Prestige system has also been added to PvE mode. As in PvP, once certain requirements are met, players can reset their progression to raise their Prestige level and receive permanent rewards. Requirements include character level, completing specific tasks and the main story, building specific Hideout modules, holding certain items and funds in the stash, and skill levels, with the first Prestige tuned slightly easier than in PvP. PvE-exclusive rewards include unique versions of the NKVD Finka knife, Akula push dagger, and Gamma secure container; while obtainable only through PvE Prestige, once unlocked, they can be used across all modes. TarCoins, the currency dedicated to the Expansions Hub, are also awarded at each Prestige level. Clothing and cosmetic rewards match those of PvP, but if acquired in PvE, they can only be used in PvE. Prestiging in PvE does not reset progress in 'Escape from Tarkov: Arena'.
A new feature called the 'EXFIL Brothers Program' has also been introduced. When experienced players (Operators) go on raids with newly joined players (Candidates), both receive a 5% XP bonus, along with additional rewards based on the Candidate's progression or game edition. To qualify as an Operator, an account must be more than 7 days old and have reached level 30 in any game mode; Operators can invite up to 5 Candidates via a referral link. Players can participate as a Candidate only within 7 days of account creation. Candidates receive beginner gear sets, rare containers, and in-game currency, while Operators receive Bitcoins and other items based on the Candidate's progress, as well as TarCoins, unique posters, and Hideout customization items depending on the Candidate's edition. The program can be completed in any 'Escape from Tarkov' game mode, but has no connection to 'Escape from Tarkov: Arena'.
In addition, server-side position synchronization has been improved to reduce rubberbanding, and quality-of-life additions include switching between buy/sell modes on the trading screen via Ctrl+Left Click, pinning the friend list, and improved drum magazine interaction. New loot spots and exfils have been added to the Customs and Interchange maps, and locked containers are now guaranteed to contain loot. In the Expansions Hub, in-game roubles can now be purchased exclusively for the PvE Zone, and new PMC voice packs are also available for purchase.
Meanwhile, to celebrate this update, Battlestate Games has provided exclusive promo code 'INVEN' for Inven readers. The code can only be redeemed and used in PvE mode and expires 2 weeks after the update release. The code cannot be redeemed during server maintenance or periods when the game is unavailable, so it should be redeemed once the update is fully deployed and the game is accessible. The items granted by the code are as follows:
- Springfield Armory M1A 7.62x51 rifle
- M1A 7.62x51 20-round magazine
- Ferro Concepts FCPC V5 plate carrier (Black Division)
- Momex balaclava
- Gatorz Specter MILSPEC ballistic glasses
- Peltor ComTac V headset (OD Green)
- MSA Gallet TC 800 High Cut combat helmet (Black)
- 120 rounds of 7.62x51mm M993 ammo
- Mystery Ranch 2 Day Assault Pack backpack (Black)
Promo Code Activation & Claim Guide
