Introduction
Escape from Tarkov’s Interchange map is one of the most intense battlegrounds in the game, featuring a massive shopping complex filled with loot, enemies, and hidden extraction points. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, mastering Interchange can significantly boost your survival rate and profit margin.
In this guide, we will break down the layout, best loot locations, extraction points, and survival strategies to help you navigate the Interchange map Tarkov like a pro.
Bio Table: Quick Interchange Map Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Map Name | Interchange |
| Game Mode | Escape from Tarkov |
| Main Locations | ULTRA Mall, Power Station, Parking Garage |
| Best Loot Spots | KIBA, Techlight, Mantis, IDEA, Goshan |
| Scav Boss | Killa |
| Extraction Points | Railway Exfil, Emercom, Scav Camp, Hole in Fence |
Understanding the Layout of Interchange
Interchange is dominated by the ULTRA shopping mall, surrounded by a large parking area and smaller service buildings. The mall itself consists of three major store brands: IDEA, OLI, and Goshan, each offering unique loot opportunities. The Power Station outside plays a crucial role in activating locked areas.
H3: Key Sections of Interchange
- 1st Floor (Ground Level) – Contains major stores, kiosks, and access to underground parking.
- 2nd Floor (Upper Level) – Houses smaller shops, electronic stores, and valuable tech loot.
- Parking Garage (Underground) – A risky but profitable area with vehicle spawns and hidden loot.
Best Loot Locations in Interchange
Interchange is a goldmine for loot, especially for electronics, tech gear, weapons, and food supplies. Here are the top loot spots:
1. KIBA Gun Store
- Why Loot Here? Exclusive weapon mods and high-tier firearms.
- Risk Level: High – Expect PvP fights.
- Key Needed: KIBA Outlet Key & KIBA Outlet Storage Room Key.
2. Techlight (2nd Floor)
- Why Loot Here? Valuable tech items like graphics cards, Tetriz, and CPUs.
- Risk Level: Medium to High – Often contested by players.
3. Mantis Store
- Why Loot Here? Rare medical supplies and stims.
- Risk Level: Medium – Frequent scav spawns.
4. OLI Store
- Why Loot Here? Industrial loot like toolkits, fuel, and wires.
- Risk Level: Low to Medium – Often overlooked by PvP players.
5. Power Station
- Why Loot Here? Controls power for locked areas; loot spawns include GPUs and military tech.
- Risk Level: Medium – Often raided early.
Extraction Points on Interchange
Surviving Tarkov’s Interchange map means knowing where to extract safely. Here are the primary extraction points:
PMC Extraction Points
| Extraction | Requirements |
| Railway Exfil | Always open |
| Emercom Checkpoint | Always open |
| Hole in Fence | No backpack required |
Scav Extraction Points
| Extraction | Requirements |
| Scav Camp | Requires a friendly PMC |
| Railway Exfil | Always open |
Survival Strategies for Interchange
Surviving Interchange in Tarkov requires strategic movement and awareness. Here are key survival tips:
1. Power Station Control
Activating the Power Station early unlocks high-tier loot locations but also alerts enemy players. If you’re solo, consider camping the exits before rushing in.
2. Avoiding Killa (Scav Boss)
Killa, the Interchange boss, is a nightmare for solo players. He wears high-tier armor and wields powerful weapons. If you hear his distinct footsteps or LMG fire, avoid direct engagement unless you’re well-equipped.
3. Fast and Stealthy Looting
Interchange is a hotspot for PvP. To avoid fights, loot quickly and extract early. If you plan to loot high-risk areas like KIBA or Techlight, always watch the escalators and corners.
4. Use Audio to Your Advantage
Sound travels well inside the mall. Crouch-walk when near enemies, use headphones for better audio clarity, and listen for gunfire or footsteps before moving.
5. Best Extraction Timing
- Early game (0-10 mins): Avoid open firefights and rush loot spots.
- Mid-game (10-20 mins): Most players are fighting; this is the best time to extract.
- Late game (20+ mins): Few enemies remain, but scav bosses and AI scavs respawn.
FAQs
1. What is the best loot spot in Interchange?
KIBA, Techlight, and OLI offer some of the best loot, but they are also high-risk zones.
2. How do I survive Interchange as a solo player?
Stay stealthy, loot quickly, and avoid unnecessary fights. Always have an extraction route planned.
3. Where can I find Killa on Interchange?
Killa roams the 1st floor of ULTRA Mall, mainly near Mantis, Brutal, and Rasmussen.
4. What keys are essential for Interchange?
KIBA Outlet Keys, Ultra Medical Storage Key, and OLI Logistics Department Key are valuable.
5. What is the safest extraction point on Interchange?
Railway Exfil and Hole in Fence are generally the safest, depending on your gear.
6. How can I activate the power in Interchange?
Go to the Power Station outside the mall and flip the switch inside the small control room.
7. What gear should I bring to Interchange?
A fast-firing weapon, extra ammo, painkillers, and a secure container for valuables.
8. Is Interchange good for beginners?
Yes, but stick to less-contested loot spots like OLI and Goshan before engaging in fights.
Conclusion
Interchange in Tarkov is a high-risk, high-reward map that offers some of the best loot in the game. Whether you’re looking for high-tier gear, PvP action, or just a profitable raid, understanding the map layout, best loot spots, and extraction points is crucial.
By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to dominate Interchange, escape with valuable loot, and avoid unnecessary fights. Good luck out there, and happy looting!
