The popular video game has shaken things up with the release of Escape from Tarkov Unheard Edition.
This premium offering goes beyond the previously highest tier, Edge of Darkness, and introduces a new level of access and features for dedicated players.
Let’s delve into what the Escape from Tarkov Unheard Edition brings to the table.
Single-player mode arrives with the Escape from Tarkov Unheard Edition
Escape From Tarkov’s core gameplay revolves around intense online raids against other players (PvP). The Unheard Edition breaks the mold by offering access to a persistent PvE co-op mode. This means you can team up with friends and tackle the dangers of the Tarkov region without the constant threat of being outgunned by another player.
The PvE co-op mode offers a unique advantage: progression carries over between wipes. Unlike the standard game where wipes (resets) periodically occur, erasing all player progress, the Unheard Edition’s PvE mode allows you to build your character and stash over time. This creates a sense of long-term investment and lets you experiment with different strategies and gear setups without the risk of losing everything.
Enhanced starting stash and boosted skills
The Escape from Tarkov Unheard Edition recognizes the importance of a well-stocked stash in Tarkov’s unforgiving environment. Compared to the standard edition, Unheard Edition players receive a significantly enhanced stash size. This translates to more storage space for looted items, crafted gear, and essential supplies. A bigger stash allows for better organization and strategic planning for future raids.
Furthermore, Unheard Edition grants your PMC (player character) a boost in starting skill levels. This head start can be invaluable, especially for newer players. Higher starting skills improve your character’s overall effectiveness in combat, looting, and navigating the treacherous environments of Tarkov.
Deep pockets and exclusive equipment
The Unheard Edition doesn’t stop at a bigger stash and boosted skills. It also grants players access to expanded PMC pockets. This seemingly simple addition provides a significant advantage in the field. With more space in your pockets, you can carry essential items like additional ammunition, meds, and grenades without sacrificing space for looted valuables.
Unheard Edition holders also receive a selection of exclusive equipment in their starting stash. This includes a unique melee weapon and armband, adding a touch of personalization to your character. Additionally, Unheard Edition grants a “Mark of The Unheard” radio-electronic item, though its exact function remains shrouded in mystery by the developers.
Early access and trader benefits
For players who enjoy staying ahead of the curve, the Escape from Tarkov Unheard Edition provides access to the Escape From Tarkov Early Test Server (ETS). This allows you to experience upcoming content updates and patches before they are released to the general player base. The ETS offers a valuable opportunity to test new features, provide feedback to the developers, and gain a competitive edge when the updates go live.
Unheard Edition players also benefit from a boost to their starting reputation with Fence, one of the key traders in Escape From Tarkov. This translates to better prices when buying and selling items, making it easier to acquire essential gear and maximize profits from your looted goods.
Was it too long to read? Here is a quick summary of all the new things added with the Escape from Tarkov Unheard Edition:
- Persistent character and stash progress in a PvE co-op mode
- Significantly bigger starting stash and boosted PMC skills
- Expanded PMC pockets and exclusive equipment let you carry more and personalize your character
- Early Test Server access
- Starts you with better reputation with a key trader for smoother transactions
Is Escape from Tarkov Unheard Edition pay to win?
The release of Escape From Tarkov Unheard Edition has sparked a heated debate on the game’s subreddit. Players are divided over whether the new edition constitutes “pay to win”.
Here’s the crux of the argument:
Escape from Tarkov Unheard Edition offers significant advantages, including:
- Increased starting character skill levels
- Expanded pockets for carrying more gear
- Additional equipment and resources
- Improved reputation with a key trader
Critics argue that these go beyond simple perks like extra stash space. They see it as a “giant head start” for Unheard Edition owners, disrupting the game’s balance. Some are even looking for alternative extraction shooters due to their dissatisfaction.
“Unheard Edition” is a disgusting amount of Pay to Win
byu/Dry_Mixture_257 inEscapefromTarkov
Adding fuel to the fire
The base price of Escape From Tarkov has reportedly increased to $250 with tax, further fueling frustration.
Even existing Edge of Darkness (EoD) owners, previously the highest tier, need to pay an additional $80 to upgrade to Unheard.
The plot thickens
While community managers confirmed the benefits apply to both offline co-op and online modes, a closer look at the Unheard Edition reveal video suggests additional perks not initially highlighted:
- Gamma container (valuable for storing loot)
- Weapon case, Scav case, Ammo case (additional storage options)
- Three starting weapons
- A new radio item (purpose currently unknown)
This information, not readily apparent, has further intensified the debate. Some see it as a “HUGE change” to the early game experience.
EoD owners feel scammed
Even players who previously owned the most expensive edition (EoD) feel cheated. They see the Unheard Edition as a devaluation of their prior investment.
How much is Escape from Tarkov Unheard Edition?
If you’re new to Escape From Tarkov, then Unheard Edition becomes your option at the full game price, which is currently $250 including tax.
Existing Escape From Tarkov players who want to upgrade to Unheard Edition will need to pay an additional fee. The specific cost for upgrading from the previous top tier (Edge of Darkness) is around $80.
Featured image credit: Escape from Tarkov
