Introduction
Escape from Tarkov’s Shoreline map presents numerous challenges, but few rival the intensity and potential rewards of facing the Colleagues, led by the infamous Sanitar. If you’ve already grappled with the basics – who they are, where to find them lurking within the Health Resort, and some elementary tactics – then welcome to Tarkov Colleagues Part Two. This isn’t about dipping your toes in the water; this is a deep dive into advanced strategies, cunning tactics, and the finer details that separate a successful raid from a devastating loss. Forget scraping by; we’re aiming for dominance. Facing the Colleagues is a brutal test, but the potential for staggering loot and a significant boost to your PMC’s progress makes it a risk worth taking. Prepare to elevate your game.
Advanced Tactics and Strategies
Successfully engaging the Colleagues requires more than just good aim; it demands strategic planning and coordinated execution. Forget lone wolf tactics; this is a team effort.
Team Composition and Roles
A well-balanced team is paramount. Designate specific roles to maximize efficiency and minimize casualties. The Entry Fragger leads the charge, clearing rooms and drawing initial fire. Equip them with a high rate-of-fire weapon like an AK-12 or an HK416 and heavy armor. The Flanker circles around, exploiting weaknesses in the Colleagues’ formation. They need mobility and a silenced weapon, such as an MP7 or AS VAL, for silent takedowns. A dedicated Support player provides covering fire, throws tactical grenades, and keeps teammates alive. A versatile weapon platform like the MDR or a customized AK variant paired with a powerful optic is ideal. Finally, the Sniper provides overwatch, eliminating threats from a distance and providing crucial intel. A bolt-action or DMR, depending on your preference, is essential. Communication is key to ensuring that you can efficiently eliminate the threat the Colleagues pose.
Flanking Maneuvers and Positioning
Relying on head-on assaults is a recipe for disaster. Instead, master the art of flanking. The Health Resort offers numerous opportunities for creative maneuvering. Consider approaching from the East Wing’s balconies or utilizing the underground parking garage to gain a surprise advantage. Verticality is your ally; control stairwells and upper floors to dictate the engagement. Establish crossfires to maximize your team’s firepower and minimize exposure. Key chokepoints, such as hallways and doorways, need to be controlled to prevent the Colleagues from maneuvering freely. Coordinate your movements to avoid friendly fire and maintain situational awareness.
Utilizing Grenades Effectively
Grenades are your best friend in this fight. Flashbangs are indispensable for disorienting the Colleagues, momentarily blinding them and creating opportunities for your Entry Fragger to push forward. Smoke grenades offer valuable cover, allowing your team to reposition, revive fallen teammates, or escape a compromised position. Frag grenades are perfect for flushing the Colleagues out of cover and inflicting area-of-effect damage. Remember to cook your grenades to minimize reaction time and maximize their effectiveness. Practice your grenade throws in offline mode to master the trajectory and timing.
Dealing with Sanitar’s Healing
Sanitar’s ability to heal himself and his guards is a major obstacle. Prioritize him as a target. If you can eliminate him early, you significantly reduce the Colleagues’ overall survivability. Use fragmentation grenades to interrupt his healing animation. Applying constant pressure, forcing him to focus on his own survival rather than healing his comrades, can also be effective. Focus fire on Sanitar to quickly eliminate the biggest threat.
Exploiting AI Behavior and Weaknesses
The Colleagues, while formidable, are not infallible. Understanding their AI behavior is crucial to gaining the upper hand.
Understanding Their Patrol Routes
The Colleagues typically patrol specific areas within the Health Resort. Learn these patrol routes to anticipate their movements and set up ambushes. Observe their behavior in offline raids to gain a better understanding of their patterns.
Using Baiting Techniques
Use sounds to your advantage. Throwing a decoy grenade or opening and closing a door can lure the Colleagues into a trap. Isolate them by drawing them into narrow corridors or confined spaces where they are more vulnerable. Be patient and wait for the perfect opportunity to strike.
Exploiting Reactions to Sounds and Actions
The Colleagues have predictable reactions to certain sounds and actions. For example, slowly peeking around a corner will often draw them closer, allowing you to get a clean shot. Experiment with different tactics to exploit these vulnerabilities. Utilizing sound traps, for example, can be effective.
Loot and Rewards (Advanced)
Defeating the Colleagues is only half the battle; securing their loot is just as important.
Detailed Loot Table Analysis
The Colleagues carry a variety of valuable items, including high-tier weapons, rare weapon attachments, valuable medical supplies, and coveted keys. Sanitar often carries rare and expensive stims, and even the elusive Keycard with Blue Marking. Scrutinize their bodies carefully to ensure you don’t miss anything. Be aware that the loot pool is dynamic, changing with updates to Escape from Tarkov. Always research the most current information to maximize your profits.
Securing the Loot
After the fight, quickly loot the bodies. Work as a team to provide cover and prevent third-party engagements. Prioritize valuable items and medical supplies. Be wary of other players who may be drawn to the sound of gunfire.
Optimal Stash Locations Nearby
Numerous hidden stashes are scattered around the Health Resort. Use these stashes to safely store your loot until you can extract. Consult online resources and maps to identify these locations. Be aware that these stashes are also known to other players, so exercise caution.
Counter-Strategies to Common Player Mistakes
Even experienced players make mistakes when facing the Colleagues. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
Addressing Common Mistakes
Don’t rush in blindly. Instead, use reconnaissance to scout ahead and plan your attack. Don’t bunch up in a hallway, making yourselves an easy target for grenades. Instead, spread out and utilize crossfires.
Providing Solutions
Overconfidence is a dangerous weakness. Arrogance can lead to careless plays and ultimately to the loss of your hard-earned loot. Never underestimate the Colleagues. Assume they are always lurking around the corner, ready to strike.
Surviving the Raid After the Fight
The raid isn’t over until you’ve extracted successfully.
Anticipating Third-Party Threats
Expect other players to converge on the Health Resort after hearing the gunfire. Set up ambushes or escape routes to avoid unwanted encounters. Be aware of popular PMC routes to the area.
Managing Wounds and Resources
After a firefight, take time to heal wounds and restock ammo. Prioritize your medical supplies and ensure you have enough ammunition to defend yourself. Know when to extract and when to continue looting.
Extraction Strategy
Choose your extraction point wisely. Consider the risks and rewards of each location. Coastal, Pier, and Road to Customs are common options, but each has its own set of challenges. Be prepared to fight for your extraction.
Conclusion
Facing the Colleagues in Escape from Tarkov is a challenging but rewarding experience. With proper preparation, strategic planning, and coordinated teamwork, you can not only survive but thrive. Remember, experimentation and adaptation are key to success. There is no single “best” strategy; you must find what works best for your team. Master these advanced tactics, exploit the Colleagues’ weaknesses, and secure the loot to become a dominant force on Shoreline. With the right knowledge and teamwork, the Colleagues can be a profitable and rewarding encounter in Escape from Tarkov. Perhaps we will explore map specific approaches and loadouts in Colleagues Part Three? Good luck out there, Tarkov shooter!
