Partly, and by design rather than by proof. Patch 1.2.0.0 adds the EXFIL Brothers Program, a system Battlestate Games built to help new players get into Escape from Tarkov by pairing them with veterans. It also changes how PMC bots behave in PvE and adds PvE Prestige. Only the first of those is aimed at newcomers, and the developer has published no data showing it improves retention, survival or progression speed.
The one change built for new players: EXFIL Brothers
In the program, experienced players are called Operators and new players are Candidates. When an Operator and a Candidate play raids together, both receive a 5% XP bonus. Further rewards are tied to the Candidate’s progression or game edition.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The patch notes state: “Candidate rewards are designed to make it easier for new players to get into the game.” That is Battlestate Games speaking as developer and publisher, with no named spokesperson. It describes intent. The notes offer no player research on whether the program makes the game easier in practice, so treat “easier” as the goal, not a measured result.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsThe 5% XP bonus is modest. The more meaningful value for a newcomer is likely the company of someone who knows the maps, though the notes don’t quantify that either. The exact Candidate reward tiers and edition-specific rewards are not spelled out in the material available here, so check the in-game program screen for the current list.
#1 Best Overall
![TOP CUSTOMS Escape from Tarkov - Tagilla Figurine Replica [Updated Packaging]- Collectible Figurine Statue- FactoryBoss - Gift Idea - Gamers](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41EZSWsEqsL._SL160_.jpg)
- Exclusive Top Customs design – crafted to closely resemble Tagilla’s in-game appearance with premium attention to detail
- Made from durable hard PVC, NOT 3D printed, using high-quality injection molding for a clean, professional finish
- Perfect for collection and display alongside your Tarkov gear or gaming setup!
- Ideal gift for your squadmates, friends, boyfriends/girlfriends
- A must-have for Tarkov fans. Whether you’re messing around in the hideout or building the ultimate 'Chad' loadout, this collectible hits hard.
PvE bot behavior changes
These changes apply to encounters with AI-controlled PMCs and are separate from EXFIL Brothers. According to the patch notes:
- USEC and BEAR PMC bots are significantly more likely to team up and stay non-hostile toward each other.
- Some PMC bots can stay neutral toward a PMC player until that player approaches or attacks them.
- PMC bots will not attack player Scavs first unless approached or attacked.
- PMC bots will more often start fights with Scav bots and bosses, and the chance of PMC bots being neutral toward Scav bots was reduced.
The effect depends on faction and on what you do. A bot that ignores you until you approach is less threatening. Bots fighting Scavs and bosses more often can also create extra noise and chaos in a raid. The notes don’t say overall PvE danger fell, so it would be wrong to read these as a blanket difficulty cut.
Rank #2
- Card's inspiration comes from Game, high similarity to the original.
- The cards is made of PVC.And all cards have a card holder to protect them.
- Excellent material and thickness.A great replica！
- Best choice for game fans,halloween cosplay prop and even cards collectors.
- Include:7pcs cards
PvE Prestige is a separate progression feature
The patch introduces six PvE Prestige levels. The first level has reduced requirements compared with PvP. Prestige resets progression only in the PvE Zone, and some gear, skills and weapon mastery can be kept, up to 50%. This is aimed at players who have already progressed, not at beginners, so it shouldn’t be counted as new-player help.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Which option suits a new player
| Choice | What the patch gives you | Caveat |
|---|---|---|
| Solo PvE | The updated PMC bot behavior | No Candidate bonus; outcomes vary by faction and your actions |
| Raiding with an Operator | 5% XP for both players, plus Candidate rewards tied to progression or edition | Needs a veteran partner; benefit not measured by the developer |
| PvP | Not changed by the bot adjustments | The bot-relationship changes are PvE encounter changes |
Access and timing
Battlestate Games earlier announced PvE co-op with persistent progression for Edge of Darkness Edition owners, with a PvE Zone button in the main menu to switch modes. That was the position at that announcement. Edition eligibility may have changed since, so confirm current terms on the official Escape from Tarkov page before buying. The developer’s announcement feed also listed an October 2026 sale with a PvE upgrade discount running until October 12, 2026 at 17:59 BST / 12:59 EDT. Prices and eligibility are volatile, and later patches may alter any mechanic described here.
Rank #3
- The product is NOT an in-game items, 1:1 real keycards from escape from tarkov.
- All EFT Labs keycards,TerraGroup Labs access keycard,Black,Blue,Green,Red,Violet,Yellow Keycards. Object 21WSObject 11SR Keycards.
- Blank emfc Chips(no info was written) are integrated in all cards.
- All cards are in a protective plastic holder to prevent from scratches,the plastic holder was to protect the cards,but they might folded,sorry.
- Secure Container Outer Dimension:6.88'(L)x3.22'(W)x1.54'(H)
The Bottom Line
Patch 1.2.0.0 gives newcomers a real on-ramp in EXFIL Brothers, but “easier” is Battlestate Games’ stated aim, not a demonstrated outcome. If you’re new, playing with a veteran Operator is the clearest way to use the patch. The bot changes and PvE Prestige are worth knowing about, but they weren’t built to hold a beginner’s hand.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
