Escape From Tarkov (EFT) is a game most accurately classified as a battle and strategy simulation in a real-life environment. One of the unique aspects of the game is the presence of Scavs or Scavengers. These entities can either be AI or players of the game themselves. Differentiation of the two holds significance in terms of survival and strategy-making. This guide will assist you in distinguishing between the two and making the right choices during the raids.
Understand the AI Scavs
AI Scavs are the nonplayable characters powered by the game’s engine, storyline, and events. Across the map, they are searching for loot and can engage in fire with either the players or other Scavs. Predicting their interaction with the game is possible if certain movements are understood. For newcomers and competitive players who want to sharpen their skills, Skycoach provides services and tips to enhance their EFT experience.
Key Differences Between AI Scavs and Player Scavs
Movement Patterns
AI Scavs have specific movement behaviors that set them apart from players. Here are some notable traits:
- Erratic Walking: AI Scavs tend to wander within a defined area. They often walk short distances, stop suddenly, and then change direction.
- Pathing Logic: Their paths follow predefined routes, usually around high-loot areas or choke points. Unlike players, they rarely stray far from these zones.
- No Sprinting: AI Scavs rarely sprint unless directly engaged in combat. Even then, their movement is linear and less tactical than player Scavs.
Combat Behavior
AI Scavs follow a specific set of rules when engaging enemies:
- Accuracy: AI Scavs’ shooting is inconsistent. They may miss shots entirely or land perfectly accurate hits at close range. Their aim feels robotic rather than fluid.
- Reaction Time: They have delayed reactions to gunfire and player presence. AI Scavs might hesitate before returning fire or taking cover.
- Grenade Use: AI Scavs rarely use grenades; when they do, they are usually poorly timed or inaccurately thrown.
In contrast, player Scavs have human intuition and decision-making, making their combat style more dynamic.
Voice Lines
AI Scavs frequently use in-game voice lines. They often shout phrases in Russian or make noises while roaming. These voice lines are:
- It’s random and repetitive.
- Triggered by specific actions, such as spotting an enemy or taking damage.
- It timed oddly, sometimes even when no threats were nearby.
Player Scavs can also use these voice lines, but they usually do so intentionally to deceive others or communicate. The timing and frequency of these voice lines can help you identify who’s controlling the Scav.
Tips for Identifying Player Scavs
Looting Behavior
Players controlling Scavs are far more likely to loot methodically. They check bodies, crates, and rooms thoroughly, whereas AI Scavs tend to ignore loot or only inspect specific areas. If you see a Scav crouched over a container or carefully inspecting a weapon, it’s likely a player.
Interaction with Other Scavs
AI Scavs follow strict rules regarding friendly fire. They won’t attack other Scavs unless provoked. Player Scavs, however, can break this rule. If you notice a Scav attacking another without apparent reason, there’s a high chance it’s a player.
Complex Movements
Human players perform actions that AI Scavs cannot replicate, such as:
- Peeking Corners: Players use tactical peeking to scout for enemies.
- Jumping: Players often jump over obstacles or onto elevated positions, something AI Scavs rarely do.
- Crouch Walking: This is a common player tactic for reducing noise, but it’s not common among AI Scavs.
Equipment Choices
AI Scavs have standard, low-quality gear most of the time. If you see a Scav equipped with high-tier weapons, body armor, or uncommon items, it’s likely a player. Players tend to optimize their load-outs, even when playing as Scavs.
Common Scenarios and How to React
Scenario 1: A Lone Scav Moving Erratically
If the Scav’s movement appears random and aimless, it’s probably an AI. Approach cautiously but confidently, as AI Scavs are easier to predict and defeat.
Scenario 2: A Scav Looting a Dead Body
This is a strong indicator of a player Scav. Keep your distance and observe their behavior. If they loot efficiently and stay aware of their surroundings, prepare for a fight.
Scenario 3: Multiple Scavs in a Group
AI Scavs often travel in loose groups and maintain their formation. If one Scav in the group acts differently—such as splitting off to flank or showing unusual caution—it’s likely a player.
Scenario 4: Grenade Usage
If a Scav throws a grenade precisely, it’s almost certainly a player. AI Scavs rarely use grenades effectively.
Why It’s Important to Differentiate
Understanding whether a Scav is AI or player-controlled can impact your strategy:
- Combat Decisions: Player Scavs are more unpredictable and dangerous than AI Scavs. Treat them with extra caution.
- Risk Assessment: Engaging a player, Scav, might reveal your position to others nearby, increasing your risk.
- Loot Opportunities: Player Scavs often carry better loot, making them higher-value targets if you’re confident in your ability to win the fight.
Advanced Strategies for Dealing with Scavs
Using Stealth
Moving quietly can help avoid unnecessary encounters with AI and player Scavs. Use crouch walking to minimize your noise profile. If you suspect a player Scav is nearby, wait and listen for their movements or voice lines before deciding to engage.
Creating Ambushes
If you’re confident a Scav is a player, you can use their human tendencies against them. Set up an ambush in a high-traffic area or near a loot spot they’ll likely check. Use sound distractions, like shooting in the distance, to lure them into your trap.
Team Tactics
Playing in a group gives you a significant advantage. While AI Scavs are manageable solo, player Scavs can outmaneuver and outthink a lone player. Use coordinated tactics with your team to pin down or outflank player-controlled Scavs.
Exploiting AI Behavior
AI Scavs’ predictable behavior can be used to your advantage. For example, you can bait them into exposing themselves by stepping into their line of sight briefly and retreating to cover. This tactic works well for thinning out AI Scavs before dealing with potential players in the area.
How Updates Impact AI and Player Scavs
Escape From Tarkov receives frequent updates that can change how AI Scavs behave. Developers tweak AI logic, making them more challenging over time. Keeping up with patch notes and community discussions can give you insights into recent changes. For example, AI Scavs might gain new combat tactics or improved aim, altering how you approach them.
Leveraging Community Knowledge
The EFT community is a treasure trove of information. Forums, YouTube guides, and social media discussions can help you refine your ability to identify Scavs. Engaging with other players’ experiences can reveal nuances you might not notice alone.
Conclusion
As one can imagine, there are many hurdles in crossing the lines, such as distinguishing between AIs and player scavs. The more you watch the movement, the more you observe them play, the more in-game lines they use, and the stealing of loot, the better your chances to distinguish between the two. Note that every action you take in Tarkov counts, so always keep your eyes and ears open, ready to take the necessary steps.