Understanding Establish Contact
Escape from Tarkov is notorious for its brutal difficulty, intricate mechanics, and steep learning curve. Success in this unforgiving world hinges on understanding the game’s systems, mastering its maps, and strategically completing quests. Among the most critical aspects of early-game progression are the tasks assigned by traders. These quests not only provide valuable experience points and Roubles but also build essential trader reputation, unlocking access to better gear and equipment. “Establish Contact,” Prapor’s initial quest, is arguably the most important starting point for any new player. This article offers a comprehensive guide to conquering “Establish Contact,” providing you with the knowledge and tactics needed to survive Customs, reach the radio tower, and begin your journey to escaping Tarkov. We’ll delve into the location of the objective, effective strategies for navigating the treacherous Customs map, potential pitfalls to avoid, and the rewarding benefits of completing this crucial first step.
Prapor, a former military officer and weapons dealer, serves as one of the primary quest givers in Escape from Tarkov. He offers a range of tasks, from simple delivery missions to complex elimination contracts. Establishing a good relationship with Prapor is crucial, especially during the early game. His initial quests are generally easier than those offered by other traders, and the rewards he provides are essential for gearing up and progressing through the initial levels.
The core objective of Establish Contact is straightforward: you must venture into the Customs map, locate a specific radio tower, and successfully extract from the raid.
The precise steps involved are as follows. First, you’ll need to travel to the Customs area. Second, you will need to locate the radio tower. This tower is situated near the construction area and old gas station. Securing this location is paramount to successfully completing the task.
Once you arrive at the location, your final step is to survive, and extract from Customs. This can be done by visiting one of the extraction points located around the map.
There is no level requirement for this quest, making it accessible to all new players. There are also no specific gear requirements, you can approach the mission with the equipment you prefer.
Completing Establish Contact provides several significant rewards. You will receive experience points which help to level your PMC, Roubles which can be spent on buying gear, and increased reputation with Prapor, unlocking access to new items and quests. These rewards are particularly valuable in the early game, providing a much-needed boost to your progression.
Navigating Customs and the Radio Tower
Customs is one of the most popular and frequently traversed maps in Escape from Tarkov, and for good reason. It is a moderately sized industrial area characterized by warehouses, factories, construction sites, and open fields. Familiarizing yourself with the map layout is crucial for navigating safely and effectively. Key landmarks include the dorms, the construction site, the old gas station, the storage area, and the river. Understanding the positions of these locations will help you to strategize your movement and avoid dangerous encounters.
The radio tower, the focal point of the Establish Contact quest, is strategically located near the construction site and the old gas station. To reach the tower, consider the following routes from common spawn locations. From the Trailer Park spawn, head towards the old gas station, then proceed past the construction site to reach the tower. From the Warehouse 17 spawn, carefully navigate through the storage area and cross the railway tracks towards the construction site. From the Crossroads spawn, proceed along the road towards the bridge and then turn towards the construction site.
The area surrounding the radio tower is a hotspot for both Player Scavs (AI-controlled enemies) and other players. Be mindful of potential loot spawns in the nearby warehouses and construction areas, as these attract attention. Sniper positions along the elevated construction areas and the nearby rooftops provide advantageous views of the surrounding terrain, so maintain situational awareness and avoid exposing yourself unnecessarily. Also, pay close attention to audio cues, as sounds can alert you to the presence of enemies.
Customs is notorious for its intense PvP combat. The dorms, with their high concentration of loot, are a frequent battleground. The construction site, with its open layout and multiple entry points, is another dangerous area. Scavs typically patrol the warehouses, factories, and industrial zones. Knowing these potential threats will assist you in navigating the quest.
Strategies for Completing Establish Contact
Choosing the right gear is essential for survival on Customs. For new players, prioritize budget-friendly loadouts that offer a balance of protection and affordability. Consider using body armor such as the PACA soft armor or the 6B2 armor. For helmets, look for options like the SSH-68 steel helmet or the Kolpak face shield. These items offer basic protection against scavs and low-level players without breaking the bank. For weaponry, consider using the AKS-74U. Carry medkits, painkillers, and bandages to address injuries sustained during engagements. Grenades can be useful for clearing rooms or dislodging campers.
When tackling Establish Contact, there are several tactical approaches to consider. A low-risk strategy involves minimizing contact with other players and focusing on stealth. Start by carefully observing your surroundings and identifying potential threats. Choose routes that avoid high-traffic areas, such as the dorms and construction site. Move slowly and deliberately, listening for audio cues that indicate the presence of enemies.
For more experienced players, a more aggressive approach might be viable. This involves actively engaging scavs and players near the radio tower. Be prepared for intense firefights and prioritize tactical positioning. Use cover effectively and communicate with teammates if playing in a group.
Once you’ve located the radio tower, the final step is to extract safely from Customs. There are several extraction points available, each with its own requirements and potential risks. The RUAF Roadblock extraction is located near the river and requires you to be near the truck. The Crossroads extraction is situated near the main road and requires no special conditions. The Smuggler’s Boat extraction is located on the shoreline and is only available during certain times. The Trailer Park extract is near the trailer park in the south west of the map. Check the wiki or in game to see what extractions are available for you to use.
Consider playing during different times of day to adjust the difficulty of the quest. During daytime raids, visibility is higher, making it easier to spot enemies. However, player activity is also typically higher during the day. Nighttime raids can be more challenging due to reduced visibility but can also offer opportunities for stealth and evasion.
Common Problems and Solutions
One of the most common challenges faced by players attempting Establish Contact is dying before reaching the radio tower. To mitigate this risk, consider adopting alternative routes that avoid high-traffic areas. Be sure to check corners and listen for audio cues that indicate the presence of enemies. Move slowly and deliberately, and avoid sprinting unless necessary.
Another potential problem is getting camped at the radio tower. Players may set up ambushes in the surrounding area, waiting for unsuspecting targets. To counter this, consider using grenades to flush out campers or to create a diversion. Alternatively, wait for campers to leave before approaching the tower.
Difficulty extracting is another common issue. Ensure you understand the requirements for each extraction point and check them before heading to them. Avoid rushing towards extraction points blindly, as campers may be waiting to ambush you. Use smoke grenades to create cover and concealment, and be prepared to fight if necessary.
Beyond Establish Contact: Next Steps
Completing Establish Contact unlocks subsequent quests from Prapor, such as “Weapon Parts” and “Checking.” These quests further build your reputation with Prapor and provide additional rewards. In addition to Prapor’s quests, prioritize completing early-game tasks from other traders, such as Therapist and Skier. Focusing on these early quests will accelerate your progress and provide you with the resources you need to succeed in Escape from Tarkov. Also be sure to level up your Hideout to produce much needed items.
Conclusion
Establish Contact serves as a crucial stepping stone in your Escape from Tarkov journey. By understanding the quest objectives, mastering the Customs map, and implementing effective strategies, you can overcome the challenges and reap the rewards. Remember to prioritize survivability, adapt to the dynamic nature of each raid, and learn from your mistakes. Apply the tips and strategies outlined in this article, and you’ll be well on your way to escaping Tarkov and establishing yourself as a formidable PMC. Now that you know everything you need to know about the task, go out there and be sure to Establish Contact!
We encourage you to share your own experiences and tips in the comments below. What strategies have you found most effective for completing Establish Contact? What challenges have you encountered, and how did you overcome them? Your insights can help fellow players navigate this critical early-game quest and improve their chances of survival.
