The world of Escape from Tarkov (EFT) is a brutal one. Bullets whiz past your ears, danger lurks around every corner, and survival hinges on your wit and tactical prowess. One such challenge that throws EFT newbies into the fire is the “Save the Mole” task for the Mechanic, a quest notorious for its complexity and unforgiving environment. But fear not, fellow PMC (Player Mercenary Company)! This guide delves into everything you need to know about “Save the Mole” in Tarkov, equipping you with the knowledge and strategies to complete this daunting mission.
As a player, you’ll navigate its labyrinthine streets, abandoned buildings, and treacherous alleys in search of the elusive mole. The atmosphere is tense, the stakes are high, and every decision could mean the difference between success and failure.
What is “Save the Mole” in Escape from Tarkov?
“Save the Mole” is a task assigned by the Mechanic in Escape from Tarkov. It requires you to locate and retrieve a hard drive from a dead scientist within the Ground Zero map, a notoriously difficult location. Here’s the breakdown:
Objective:
Find the dead scientist and his hard drive on Ground Zero.
Reward:
Upon successful completion, you’ll receive reputation points with the Mechanic, unlocking further quests and potentially valuable gear purchases.
The Perils of Ground Zero:
Ground Zero throws a gauntlet of challenges at players. Here’s what to expect:
Intense PvP:
This map is a hotbed for player-versus-player (PvP) action, attracting well-equipped players vying for valuable loot.
Limited Cover:
Open spaces and sparse buildings offer minimal protection, making you a vulnerable target.
Scav Ambushes:
Beware of aggressive AI-controlled Scavs that patrol the map and can easily overwhelm unprepared players.
Locating the Scientist and Hard Drive
Here’s your roadmap to finding the scientist and retrieving the hard drive:
Gearing Up:
Choose gear that prioritizes mobility and silent movement. A silenced weapon, light armor, and plenty of first-aid supplies are crucial for navigating the dangers of Ground Zero.
Entering Ground Zero:
This map has multiple entry points. Consider spawning near the East Gate or the Train Tunnel for a potentially less contested approach.
Heading for Parking Lot:
Navigate towards the large, central parking lot complex located on the western side of the map.
Locating the Dead Scientist:
Inside the parking lot, look for a white van near the southern edge. The dead scientist lies amongst some rubble nearby.
Securing the Hard Drive:
Loot the scientist’s body to obtain the hard drive. Be cautious, as other players might be lurking nearby.
Extracting:
Once you have the hard drive, your objective is to extract from the map alive. Utilize designated extraction points like the Emercom Checkpoint or the Train Tunnel exit.
Strategies for Success: Tips to Complete “Save the Move”
Here are some key strategies to maximize your chances of success:
Utilize Offline Mode:
Before venturing into a live raid, consider practicing the route in offline mode to familiarize yourself with the map layout and potential dangers.
Move Cautiously:
Prioritize stealth and awareness. Avoid sprinting through open areas and use sound suppression on your weapon to minimize noise and avoid attracting unwanted attention.
Check Corners and Flanks:
Be wary of enemy players who might be camping key locations or flanking your position.
Prioritize Escaping:
Remember, the primary objective is acquiring the hard drive and extracting safely. Don’t get bogged down in prolonged firefights unless absolutely necessary.
Beyond “Save the Mole” : The Importance of Tasks in Escape from Tarkov
Completing tasks like “Save the Mole” is an integral part of the Escape from Tarkov experience. These tasks not only unlock valuable rewards and progress your character, but also force you to learn different maps, hone your combat skills, and master the game’s unique mechanics.
Conclusion:
The “Save the Mole” task is a significant hurdle for new Escape from Tarkov players. However, with proper preparation, strategic planning, and a dose of caution, you can successfully complete this mission and progress further within the unforgiving world of EFT. Remember, “Save the Mole” is just one step in your Tarkov journey. As you conquer these early challenges, you’ll gain the experience and skills necessary to tackle even more demanding tasks and dominate the battlegrounds of Escape from Tarkov.
“Save the Mole” FAQs –
Q: Is the “Save the Mole” task mandatory in Escape from Tarkov?
A: No, the “Save the Mole” task is not mandatory for completing the game. However, it’s an important quest for progressing through the Mechanic’s questline, which unlocks further tasks, reputation gains, and potentially valuable gear purchases from him.
Q: What if I die on Ground Zero while trying to complete “Save the Mole”? Do I lose the hard drive?
A: Unfortunately, yes. If you die on the map, you’ll lose any items you were carrying, including the hard drive. This is why it’s crucial to prioritize extracting safely after acquiring the objective.
Q: Are there alternative ways to complete “Save the Mole” besides fighting my way through Ground Zero?
A: While a direct approach can be risky, some players opt for strategies like waiting for Scav Boss fights to erupt and then sneaking in to grab the hard drive amidst the chaos. However, this approach is still risky and hinges on unpredictable factors.
Q: I’m new to Escape from Tarkov. Is “Save the Mole” too difficult for beginners?
A: “Save the Mole” can be challenging for new players, especially due to the intense PvP nature of Ground Zero. Consider practicing offline raids on the map to learn the layout and potential dangers before attempting it live. Alternatively, focus on completing easier tasks for other traders to gain experience and improve your gear before tackling “Save the Mole”.
Q: Are there any rewards beyond reputation points for the Mechanic upon completing “Save the Mole”?
A: The primary reward for completing “Save the Mole” is increased reputation with the Mechanic. This unlocks further quests in his line, which might offer additional rewards like gear or in-game currency.
