Escape from Tarkov pushes the boundaries of genres and offers a new kind of gameplay based on a multitude of tactical and combat factors and the use of additional modules that improve game realism.

Events take place in a realistic setting in the Russian city of Tarkov. Main characters work for two private military companies locked in bloody conflict on the streets of the settlement surrounded by UN forces and Russian Military. Players need to find a way out of the isolated Tarkov, survive the deadly hazards and unearth all mysteries of the city. Following the wildly twisted plot, heroes of Escape from Tarkov meet many dangers – from hostile mercenaries of enemy faction to aggressive environment. Death may come suddenly in a multitude of ways: character may perish because of consequences of different injuries, illnesses, exhaustion and radiation poisoning.

To survive in a harsh and unpredictable world, players use numerous MMO system modules: users can control all actions and movements of their character and choose from a wide range of behaviors and tactics.

Closed Beta Test (CBT) access will be provided to all owners of early access packages. The admission of players will be conducted in waves, but as soon as reasonably possible. Within a week, every package owner will receive an invitation email. Players who have purchased early access packages earlier than others will be allowed into testing first. New users will be able to join other beta testers immediately after the end of the last wave. 

With the start of this new phase, Escape from Tarkov receives a significant number of updates such as the addition of a new game location - Shoreline, along with re-balancing of existing locations and the addition of new spots to explore, more useful items, additional medicines and equipment, an advanced arsenal of weapons and weapon modifications, a balanced economy and insurance system, and lastly, a general chat to search for info or seek out raid companions.

"In recent months we have done a formidable job optimizing the speed and stability of the game, and fixed a lot of errors," said Nikita Buyanov, head of the Battlestate Games. "Our main task is to make it comfortable to play for everyone. Therefore, I hope that players will understand the precautions we took with the gradual admission process. Of course, the development of the game doesn’t stop there. It will grow richer with features and content with every consecutive update, as soon as they are ready. For example, the closed beta testing will be soon expanded with the quest system.”
 
New Gameplay Features in the Closed Beta:

• Insurance - For a small amount of in game currency, players can insure weapons and equipment, increasing the chance of retaining it
• Loot and Economy - The CBT will feature a new Merchant, new barter loot, medicines and additional useful items for players to buy, sell and trade. Economic balancing means items will be made available in marketplaces for barter and in loot drops based on their popularity and rarity within the economics system
• Weapons - New weapon customization parts and ammunition types, along with the addition of the modern-classic MP5 submachine gun will offer players even more customizations in the game that prides itself on making thousands of weapon combos and upgrades possible
• Locations - There will be a total of four locations available to play- Customs, Woods, Factory and Shoreline - all with different sizes and terrains. The Shoreline location will be newest and biggest map addition to the CBT.
• General Chat - Chat channels will be available to all players online in the game, allowing players to share useful information and group up for raids.

Escape from Tarkov's Hazardous Environment Combat Simulator employs a number of custom system modules to create incredibly immersive gameplay and make players feel the reality of what is happening in the game.