Save the Mole Tarkov: A Comprehensive Guide to Mastering This Challenging Quest

rsEscape from Tarkov is a highly immersive and intense multiplayer first-person shooter that has captivated players with its complex gameplay and detailed world. Among the various tasks and quests that players encounter, the Save the Mole Tarkov quest stands out as one of the more challenging and strategically demanding missions. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, this quest requires careful planning, knowledge of the terrain, and a keen understanding of game mechanics. In this article, we’ll provide a detailed guide to help you successfully complete the Save the Mole quest, offering tips, strategies, and key insights to ensure your success.

Understanding the Save the Mole Quest

The Save the Mole quest is given by Skier, one of the traders in Escape from Tarkov. This task involves locating and securing an informant, referred to as “The Mole,” who is hidden within the perilous streets of Tarkov. The Mole has critical intelligence that Skier wants, but the situation is dire—the area is swarming with enemies, and time is of the essence.

Successfully completing this quest not only advances your storyline but also rewards you with valuable items and reputation with Skier, which is crucial for accessing better gear and tasks later in the game.

Quest Objectives

The primary objective of the Save the Mole quest is to locate The Mole’s hideout and ensure his survival. This involves:

  1. Locating The Mole’s Hideout: You need to find the specific location where The Mole is hiding.
  2. Securing the Area: Make sure the area around The Mole is clear of hostiles to guarantee his safety.
  3. Extracting the Information: Once the area is secure, collect the critical intelligence from The Mole and safely extract it.

Quest Requirements

Before attempting the Save the Mole quest, there are a few prerequisites you should be aware of:

  • Player Level: You need to be at least level 20 to receive this quest from Skier.
  • Previous Quests: Ensure you have completed the required preceding tasks given by Skier to unlock Save the Mole.
  • Equipment: Bring sufficient gear, including weapons, armor, healing items, and possibly grenades for crowd control.

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing Save the Mole

Now that you understand the objectives, let’s dive into a step-by-step guide to completing the Save the Mole quest in Escape from Tarkov.

1. Preparing for the Quest

Preparation is key to successfully completing Save the Mole. Here’s how to get ready:

Choose the Right Loadout

  • Weapons: Equip yourself with a reliable assault rifle or SMG for close-quarters combat, as well as a scope for medium-range engagements. A silenced weapon can be advantageous to avoid attracting unnecessary attention.
  • Armor: Wear mid to high-tier armor to protect against enemy gunfire. The streets of Tarkov can be brutal, and staying alive is your top priority.
  • Medical Supplies: Bring a sufficient number of medkits, bandages, and painkillers. It’s likely you’ll take damage during the mission.
  • Grenades: Flashbangs and fragmentation grenades can be useful for clearing out enemies or creating a distraction.

Study the Map

  • Map Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with the map, particularly the area where The Mole is located. Knowing the layout, including possible enemy spawn points, extraction zones, and vantage points, will give you a tactical advantage.

2. Locating The Mole’s Hideout

Once you’re prepared, it’s time to locate The Mole’s hideout. The hideout is usually situated in a high-risk area with limited cover and multiple entry points, making it vulnerable to enemy attacks.

Navigating to the Location

  • Stealth Approach: Move cautiously through the map, avoiding unnecessary engagements. Use cover effectively and stay aware of your surroundings.
  • Check for Enemies: As you approach the hideout, be on the lookout for enemy players and AI-controlled Scavs. These enemies can ambush you, so clear the area methodically.

3. Securing the Area Around The Mole

After locating The Mole’s hideout, your next task is to secure the surrounding area. This step is crucial as it ensures you can extract the information safely without interference from hostiles.

Clear the Perimeter

  • Engage Hostiles: Take out any enemies in the immediate vicinity of the hideout. Be strategic—use your grenades to flush out enemies hiding behind cover or in buildings.
  • Establish a Perimeter: Once the area is clear, establish a secure perimeter around the hideout. Position yourself and any teammates in a way that you can cover all potential entry points.

4. Extracting the Information

With the area secured, you can now proceed to extract the critical intelligence from The Mole. This part of the quest involves interacting with the hideout to receive the intel.

Collect the Intel

  • Interaction: Approach The Mole’s hideout and follow the on-screen prompts to interact with the location and collect the necessary information.
  • Stay Alert: Even after collecting the intel, remain vigilant. Enemies could still approach, and you need to be ready to defend yourself.

5. Extracting Safely

The final step is to extract safely with the information. This can be the most challenging part of the quest, as other players might try to ambush you and steal the intel.

Plan Your Extraction Route

  • Choose the Right Exit: Select an extraction point that is relatively close but not too obvious. Avoid high-traffic areas where other players might be lurking.
  • Move Quickly and Cautiously: Time is of the essence, but rushing can lead to mistakes. Move quickly but cautiously towards the extraction point, staying aware of your surroundings at all times.

Extraction Tips

  • Use Distractions: If you suspect enemies are nearby, use grenades or gunfire to create a distraction, allowing you to slip away unnoticed.
  • Buddy System: If you’re playing with a team, have one member cover your retreat while the others make their way to the extraction point.

Tips and Tricks for Save the Mole Quest

Successfully completing the Save the Mole quest can be challenging, but these additional tips and tricks can give you an edge:

1. Play with a Team

  • Team Coordination: Completing this quest is easier with a well-coordinated team. Assign roles, such as a scout, sniper, and close-combat specialist, to cover all your bases.

2. Avoid Unnecessary Engagements

  • Stealth Over Combat: Whenever possible, avoid unnecessary firefights. Engaging in combat can attract attention and lead to ambushes from other players or Scavs.

3. Use Sound to Your Advantage

  • Listen Carefully: In Tarkov, sound is crucial. Use it to detect enemies approaching and to avoid noisy movements that could give away your position.

4. Adapt to the Situation

  • Flexibility: Be prepared to adapt your strategy based on the situation. If you encounter a larger group of enemies, consider retreating and reapproaching from a different angle.

Rewards and Benefits of Completing Save the Mole

Completing the Save the Mole quest rewards you with valuable items and increased reputation with Skier, which unlocks further tasks and access to better gear. The quest also enhances your knowledge of the game’s mechanics, map navigation, and combat strategy, making you a more skilled Tarkov player overall.

Reward Highlights

  • Item Rewards: Upon completion, you receive a selection of high-tier items, which could include weapons, ammunition, or gear that is difficult to obtain otherwise.
  • Reputation Boost: Your standing with Skier increases, giving you access to higher-tier quests and better trading opportunities.

FAQs

What is the best weapon loadout for the Save the Mole tarkov quest?
A balanced loadout with an assault rifle for medium-range engagements and a silenced SMG for close quarters is ideal. Ensure you have mid to high-tier armor and plenty of medical supplies.

How do I find The Mole’s hideout in Tarkov?
The Mole’s hideout is typically located in a high-risk area with limited cover. Familiarize yourself with the map and use stealth to approach the location without drawing too much attention.

Is it better to complete Save the Mole solo or with a team?
While it is possible to complete the quest solo, doing so with a well-coordinated team increases your chances of success, especially when securing the area and extracting safely.

What happens if I die after collecting the intel?
If you die after collecting the intel but before extracting, you’ll need to restart the quest. The information is lost if you fail to extract safely.

Can I replay the Save the Mole quest after completing it?
Once completed, the Save the Mole quest cannot be replayed. However, the experience and strategies you develop will benefit you in future quests and raids.

What should I do if I encounter other players near The Mole’s hideout?
If you encounter other players, assess the situation. first possible, avoid direct confrontation and wait for them to leave. If engagement is unavoidable, use cover and strategic positioning to gain the upper hand.

Conclusion

The Save the Mole quest in Escape from Tarkov is a test of strategy, skill, and patience. Successfully completing this task not only rewards you with valuable in-game items and reputation but also hones your abilities as a player. By preparing adequately, knowing the map, and employing the right tactics, you can navigate the challenges of this quest and emerge victorious. Whether you’re tackling it solo or with a team, the Save the Mole quest offers an exciting and rewarding experience that deepens your engagement with Tarkov’s intense and immersive world.