No, Escape from Tarkov is not available on Steam. It is sold exclusively through the developer Battlestate Games’ official website, and buying it anywhere else risks a scam or a revoked key. This article explains why it is not on Steam, how to buy it safely, how the launcher works, and what alternatives exist.
Why Tarkov Is Not on Steam
Escape from Tarkov has been in beta since 2017, and the developer has chosen to distribute it only through its own website and launcher. This gives Battlestate Games full control over sales, pricing, and account management, and avoids Valve’s 30% cut on game sales. The game also has a unique pre-order and edition upgrade system that is tightly integrated with its own account system, which would be awkward to replicate on Steam.
How to Buy and Play Tarkov
To play, you must:
- Create an account on the official Escape from Tarkov website.
- Purchase one of the four editions (Standard, Left Behind, Prepare for Escape, or Edge of Darkness) directly from the site.
- Download the Battlestate Games launcher from the same site.
- Install the launcher, log in with your account, and download the game client.
The launcher also handles updates and patches, which are frequent during the beta. Your game progress, items, and account are tied to that account, not to any external platform.
Can You Add It to Steam as a Non-Steam Game?
Yes, you can add the launcher or the game executable to your Steam library as a non-Steam game. This lets you launch it from Steam and use the Steam overlay (for screenshots, friends, and the in-game web browser), but it does not give you Steam achievements, trading cards, or cloud saves. It is a convenience feature, not a real integration.
Common Problems and Misconceptions
A frequent misconception is that Tarkov will come to Steam “after full release” — the developer has never confirmed this. Another issue is that third-party key resellers sometimes list Tarkov, but these keys are often region-locked, already used, or obtained fraudulently, leading to account bans. Also, the game is not available in some regions (like certain parts of Asia) due to licensing; players in those regions need a VPN, which violates the terms of service and can result in a ban.
Cost and Editions
Prices vary by edition and are set by Battlestate Games. The Standard edition is the cheapest, while Edge of Darkness is the most expensive and includes all future DLC. The game frequently has sales (e.g., during holidays), but there is no official discount on Steam because it is not listed there. Always check the official website for current pricing.
Safety and Scams
Because Tarkov is not on Steam, scammers often create fake Steam store pages or phishing sites that look official. To stay safe:
- Only buy from the official website (www.escapefromtarkov.com).
- Never buy from third-party key resellers or forums.
- Enable two-factor authentication on your Battlestate account.
- Be wary of any “Steam gift” of Tarkov — it is impossible.
Alternatives and Similar Games
If you want a similar hardcore extraction shooter on Steam, consider these games that are actually available there:
- Hunt: Showdown — PvPvE bounty hunting with a dark atmosphere.
- Marauders — Space-based extraction shooter.
- Zero Sievert — A top-down 2D extraction shooter inspired by Tarkov.
- Stalcraft — A free-to-play extraction shooter in the Zone.
These offer similar tension and loot mechanics without the need to leave Steam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Escape from Tarkov ever come to Steam?
There is no official announcement. The developer has not indicated any plans to release on Steam, and the game’s business model relies on direct sales. It is possible but unlikely in the near future.
Can I buy Tarkov on Steam with a gift card?
No, because the game is not on Steam. You would need to pay with a credit card, PayPal, or other payment methods accepted on the official website.
Is it safe to buy Tarkov from G2A or Kinguin?
No. These sites sell keys from third parties, and Tarkov keys are often region-locked or obtained through chargebacks. Many buyers have had their accounts banned. Buy only from the official site.
Can I play Tarkov on Steam Deck?
Yes, but with effort. You can install the Battlestate launcher as a non-Steam game and run it through Proton. However, performance may be poor, and anti-cheat software may not work well on Linux, so it is not officially supported.
Why does Tarkov have such a high price on the official site?
The price reflects the game’s development model — it is in early access, and the higher editions fund ongoing development. The game also has no recurring subscription, so the upfront cost covers future content.
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