How to learn the maps in Escape from Tarkov

Escape from Tarkov (EFT) features one of the steepest learning curves in gaming today. There are very few tutorials once you load up the game for the first time, leaving you to fend for yourself. While some of the game’s mechanics can be deduced with common sense, other aspects cannot. Some take tons of experience and playtime to even begin to understand, such as the different maps.

Perhaps the most important part of EFT is learning the various maps and their extraction points. However, the game doesn’t offer any help in this area. So, instead of figuring it out for yourself, why don’t we give you tips on how to navigate the maps?

Ways to learn the Escape from Tarkov maps

Of course, the best way to understand something is to gain experience. The only way to do this is in EFT is to play the maps over and over. However, starting out, this can be extremely difficult as you’re dropped into an unknown area and told to find an extraction point.

The problem is, you don’t even know where you are, let alone where an extraction point is. Well, if you fall into this category, fear not. There are ways to speed up the learning process.

First, the biggest thing you want to do is go into Offline mode. We went over how to do this in our beginner guide to Escape from Tarkov. Offline mode helps you learn EFT without the stress of losing your loot. Also, you’re given 40+ minutes to make your way around the map.

A fan-made Customs map guide. Credit to Reddit for the image.

To start, you’ll want to learn either Customs or Interchange, as those are the most popular maps. Learning them is difficult, but if you’re equipped with a third-party map, it becomes much easier. Simply go to Google Images and look up a map of Customs or Interchange. This will help out tremendously with finding extraction points and landmarks.

To figure out where you actually are on the map, find a landmark near you and take a look at where that is on your map. For example, on Customs, if you spawn by the silos, then you know you’re on the eastern side.

This is by far the easiest and most efficient way to learn the maps in Escape from Tarkov. Make sure to keep up with Daily Esports for all EFT coverage!