PMC stands for Private Military Company, and players control PMC characters in Escape From Tarkov. They are well-equipped and have a set loadout chosen by the player. Scavs, short for Scavengers, are AI-controlled characters with random gear that players can also control during raids. They have a more unpredictable playstyle compared to PMCs.
PMC in Escape From Tarkov:
PMC stands for Private Military Company in Escape From Tarkov. Players who choose PMC as their character are essentially mercenaries who are well-equipped and looking to complete tasks in the game. PMC characters have customizable loadouts with various weapons, gear, and equipment that they can bring into raids. The main objective of PMC players is to complete tasks, explore maps, loot valuable items, and engage in combat with Scavs or other PMCs.
Scav in Escape From Tarkov:
On the other hand, Scav refers to Scavenger in Escape From Tarkov. Players who pick Scav as their character play as AI-controlled scavengers whose main goal is to loot items from the map. Scavs have limited equipment compared to PMC players and usually spawn with random gear such as weapons, armor, and medical supplies. Scavs do not have access to tasks and quests like PMC characters; instead, their primary focus is to loot items, survive, and possibly engage in combat with PMCs or other Scavs.
Differences in Gameplay:
One of the key differences between PMC and Scav in Escape From Tarkov is the gameplay experience and objectives. PMC players have specific tasks and quests to complete, which earn them experience points, reputation with traders, and in-game currency. They also have the advantage of bringing in their custom loadouts, giving them more control over their gear selection and strategy. On the other hand, Scavs rely on looting items from the map to build up their inventory and wealth without the pressure of completing tasks.
Additionally, PMC players face the risk of losing their equipped gear upon death in a raid, creating a more intense and risk-reward dynamic. If a PMC dies in a raid, they lose the equipment they brought in unless it is insured, adding a layer of strategy and consequence to their actions. Scavs, on the other hand, do not lose their starting gear upon death, making them a more low-risk option for players looking to explore maps and scavenge without worrying about gear loss.
Interaction with AI and Players:
PMC and Scav players also have different interactions with AI-controlled NPCs and other players in Escape From Tarkov. PMC characters are seen as threats by AI Scavs, who will engage them in combat if spotted. PMC players can also encounter other hostile PMCs looking to eliminate rival players for loot or completing their tasks. This dynamic makes PMC raids more intense and competitive, requiring players to be vigilant and strategic in their approach.
On the other hand, Scavs are generally neutral towards AI Scavs, allowing them to navigate the map without constantly engaging in combat. Scav players can choose to cooperate with other Scavs they encounter or even team up with other players, forming a temporary alliance to increase their chances of survival. This more flexible and cooperative gameplay style makes Scav runs a unique experience compared to the more competitive PMC raids.
Rewards and Progression:
Progression and rewards differ between PMC and Scav characters in Escape From Tarkov. PMC players can earn experience points, level up their skills, unlock trader levels, and complete tasks to earn valuable rewards such as in-game currency, rare items, and access to better gear. The progression of PMC characters is tied to their tasks and performance in raids, encouraging players to engage in various activities to advance their characters and improve their loadouts.
On the other hand, Scav players do not have the same progression system as PMC characters. While Scavs can loot valuable items and gear from raids, they do not earn experience points or level up skills like PMC players. The primary reward for Scav runs is the loot they manage to extract from the map, which can then be used or sold to acquire better gear for future raids. This difference in progression systems gives each playstyle its unique benefits and challenges, catering to different player preferences.