Escape From Tarkov Scav is one of the first things you need to know in-game. A Scav, or Scavenger, is one of the two types of characters you can play as in the game. These survivors are a key part of your Tarkov experience, and learning how to use them well can make a huge difference in your game.
Think of Scavs as your ticket to free loot and a chance to explore the game without risking your main character’s gear. They’re like a safety net that lets you grab valuable items and learn the game’s maps without the fear of losing everything.
Also Read: The Only Guide You’ll Need For EFT Healing
What is a Scav in Tarkov?
When starting a raid in Tarkov, you can choose between two types of characters: your PMC (your main character that levels up and keeps their gear) or a Scav. While both play similarly, Scavs have several unique features that make them feel completely different.
Scavs come in two varieties: AI-controlled and player-controlled characters. Every raid starts with AI Scavs already on the map, and more show up in waves as time goes on. During some of these waves, player Scavs can join the action too.
One key difference is that Scavs’ equipment is randomly generated. You might spawn with just a pistol and basic gear, or you could luck out and start with top-tier weapons, helmets, and backpacks. However, it’s important to note that this equipment won’t stay with your Scav after the raid — even if you survive. Your Scav changes automatically after each raid.
AI Scavs aren’t usually too dangerous. They mostly just walk around, stop to pretend to loot things, look around, and then move somewhere else. Sometimes they’ll check their guns, lean side to side, talk in Russian, or make gestures. They might even pick up stuff from dead bodies and use it. These behaviors can help you figure out if you’re looking at an AI Scav or another player playing as a Scav.
Also Read: Escape From Tarkov Beginner’s Guide: Total Noobs Come Here
Can You Complete Quests as a Scav?
No, you can’t complete regular quests while playing as a Scav. Quests are only available for your main PMC character. The only exception is that sometimes you can complete daily tasks as a Scav.
But don’t let this discourage you! Scavs serve many other important purposes in the game. Scav runs are perfect for discovering and learning maps safely, and they give you a chance to practice game mechanics without risking your good gear. They’re also great for making money through looting and finding valuable equipment to use on your PMC later. Many players use Scav runs when they want to play stress-free without worrying about losing their main character’s gear.
The Difference Between Scav and PMC
Now that you already know about Scavs, let’s break down how they differ from PMCs. Your PMC is your main character in Escape from Tarkov, the one that levels up and keeps their progress between raids. When you play as a PMC, you’ll start each raid with whatever equipment you’ve chosen beforehand from your stash. This means you have control over your loadout, but you also risk losing everything if you die in the raid.
Also Read: How to Increase FPS in Escape From Tarkov
EFT Scav Karma
Scav karma is an important system in Tarkov that encourages player Scavs to work together instead of just shooting each other on sight. This karma is directly linked to your reputation with the Fence trader. You can check your current karma level by looking at your Fence reputation.
When you’re playing as a Scav, your actions affect your karma. For example, if you shoot and kill other Scavs during your raid, you’ll lose reputation points with Fence when the raid ends. This might not seem like a big deal at first, but your Scav karma level actually impacts several important benefits:
- The cooldown timer between Scav runs
- The number of extraction points available to you
- The quality of gear your Scav spawns with
- How AI Scavs react to you (they might help you more)
- Your ability to avoid Scav Bosses
- The prices when buying items from Fence
So, while it might be tempting to shoot every moving thing you see, maintaining good Scav karma by being friendly to other Scavs can make your future Scav runs much more profitable and enjoyable.
Final Words
To sum up, Mastering the Scav system in Escape from Tarkov can significantly improve your overall game experience. Remember to maintain good Scav karma, use your random load-outs to your advantage, and think of your Scav as a valuable tool in your Tarkov toolbox. With practice and smart play, your Scav runs can become an essential part of your success in the unforgiving world of Tarkov.
But why stop there? If you’re truly dedicated to taking your skills to the next level and dominating each Raid, check out our HWID Spoofer, and consider using our professional Escape from Tarkov cheats.
