Quest Overview
Escape From Tarkov, a hardcore and realistic first-person action RPG/Simulator, has captivated gamers with its brutal difficulty, immersive world, and intricate quest system. Among the early tasks that players encounter, the “Establish Contact” quest stands out as a crucial stepping stone. It’s not just about the immediate rewards; it’s about learning essential skills and unlocking further opportunities within the game. This guide aims to provide you with a comprehensive roadmap to successfully completing the “Establish Contact” quest, ensuring you’re well-prepared to navigate the dangers of Factory and progress further in Tarkov.
The “Establish Contact” quest is assigned by Prapor, one of the initial traders you encounter in Escape From Tarkov. Prapor serves as a contact within the war-torn region of Norvinsk, providing you with tasks that often involve securing areas, gathering information, or, as in this case, establishing communication links.
The core objective of “Establish Contact” is relatively straightforward. You must reach level two and then venture into the Factory map and successfully plant a Signal Transmitter at the Gate Three checkpoint. The Signal Transmitter is provided by Prapor after accepting the quest, so no need to purchase one.
Successfully completing “Establish Contact” offers a valuable set of rewards. You’ll gain a significant amount of Experience Points, which are crucial for leveling up your character and unlocking new skills. You’ll also receive a boost to your reputation with Prapor, which is essential for unlocking better trades and higher-level quests from him. Furthermore, you’ll receive a sum of Roubles, the primary currency in Tarkov, helping you to build your financial foundation. Perhaps most importantly, completing “Establish Contact” unlocks the “Chemical – Part One” quest, which opens up a new line of progression within the game.
Prerequisites and Preparation
Before diving headfirst into the Factory, it’s crucial to ensure you’re adequately prepared. One of the first requirements is to reach level two. This might sound simple, but it’s a necessary hurdle that ensures you have at least a basic understanding of the game mechanics before tackling a more challenging map like Factory. Focus on completing early quests from Prapor and Therapist, or engaging in Scav runs on maps like Customs or Woods to gain experience and familiarize yourself with the gunplay and movement.
Once you’ve reached level two, you’ll need to consider your equipment. As mentioned earlier, Prapor provides the Signal Transmitter, but beyond that, your gear choices are critical for survival. While you don’t need top-tier equipment, consider bringing a reliable weapon like a pistol, submachine gun, or shotgun, as Factory is a close-quarters combat map. A basic armored rig can provide some protection against Scav and PMC fire. Ensure you have a supply of bandages and a medkit to treat wounds you may sustain during your run.
Perhaps the most important element of preparation is map knowledge. Factory is a small, confined map, but it’s also incredibly dangerous due to its high player density and tight corridors. Familiarize yourself with the layout of Factory, paying particular attention to the location of Gate Three and the various extraction points. Knowing where you need to go and where you can escape if things get hairy is paramount to your success.
(Image/Diagram: A simplified map of Factory, clearly marking Gate Three and major extraction points.)
Step-by-Step Walkthrough
Once you’re geared up and have a mental map of Factory, it’s time to embark on your mission. Load into a raid on Factory as your PMC. The spawn locations can be unpredictable, so be aware of your surroundings as soon as the raid begins.
Your primary goal is to reach Gate Three, which is typically located on one side of the Factory map. Be cautious as you navigate through the corridors and rooms. Factory is notorious for its ambushes and close-quarters engagements. Use cover effectively, listen for footsteps, and be prepared to engage enemies at any moment.
As you approach Gate Three, proceed with extreme caution. Other players might be camping in the area, waiting to ambush unsuspecting players. Clear the area thoroughly before attempting to plant the Signal Transmitter. The exact location for planting the transmitter is near the gate itself, usually on or near a piece of equipment or structure. An animation will play as your character plants the device, leaving you vulnerable during this time. It’s a good idea to lay prone while planting it, and make sure there isn’t a scav or enemy player nearby.
Once the Signal Transmitter is planted, your objective is complete. Now, the most crucial task remains: extract from Factory alive. Choose an extraction point and carefully make your way towards it. Be aware that other players may be attempting to extract as well, so remain vigilant and prepared for a fight. Once you successfully extract, the “Establish Contact” quest will be marked as completed.
Challenges and Common Mistakes
Factory presents a unique set of challenges due to its small size and high player density. The map is a hotspot for Player versus Player combat, and you’re likely to encounter both player scavs and Player characters looking for easy kills.
One of the most common mistakes players make is rushing into Factory without a plan. This often leads to getting caught in crossfires or ambushed by more experienced players. Always take a moment to assess your surroundings and plan your route before moving.
Another mistake is ignoring sound cues. Sound is critical in Escape From Tarkov, and Factory is no exception. Listen carefully for footsteps, gunfire, and other sounds that can indicate the presence of nearby enemies. Use headphones to enhance your ability to pinpoint sound direction.
Underestimating scavs can also be a fatal mistake. While they may seem like easy targets, scavs can be surprisingly accurate and deadly, especially in close-quarters combat. Never underestimate the power of a scav with a shotgun.
Choosing a poor spawn location can also set you up for failure. Some spawn locations are more exposed and vulnerable to early engagements. Try to learn the spawn locations and choose a route that allows you to avoid immediate contact with other players.
Advanced Tips and Strategies
To increase your chances of success, consider implementing some advanced tips and strategies. One approach is to time your run to avoid peak hours. During periods of high player activity, Factory can become even more chaotic and dangerous. Experiment with different times of day to find periods when the player density is lower.
Teamwork can also be a significant advantage. Running with a squad allows you to coordinate your movements, provide mutual support, and increase your overall firepower. Communication is key when playing in a squad, so use voice chat to coordinate your actions.
Another useful strategy is to utilize scav runs for reconnaissance. Before attempting the “Establish Contact” quest with your PMC, run a few scav raids on Factory to familiarize yourself with the map layout, enemy spawns, and potential ambush locations.
Consider alternative routes to Gate Three. There are multiple pathways to reach your objective, and some may be less heavily contested than others. Experiment with different routes to find the one that works best for you.
Understanding factory spawns is paramount. It dictates the players around you and where you might encounter them.
If you’re a new player, a solid alternative strategy is to wait until late raid. Most other players are looking for early PVP, which means late raid the map has thinned out. If you can avoid any fights for the first 10 minutes, you might have a good shot at planting the transmitter without resistance.
Conclusion
The “Establish Contact” quest is an important step in your progression through Escape From Tarkov. While it may seem daunting at first, with careful planning, preparation, and execution, you can successfully complete the quest and unlock further opportunities within the game. Remember to prioritize map knowledge, gear up appropriately, and be aware of your surroundings. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different strategies and tactics until you find what works best for you. Embrace the challenge, learn from your mistakes, and most importantly, have fun exploring the world of Tarkov. Now, take these tips and experiences and share your success stories, let me know if these tips helped you! Good luck out there!
