Escape From Tarkov Hardcore Wipe

The next Escape From Tarkov wipe is officially one of the most brutal yet. Battlestate Games is turning up the difficulty dial, confirming that this isn’t your standard progression reset—it’s a true Hardcore Wipe. Launching alongside patch 0.16.8.0, this update arrives in July 2025 and promises to strip Tarkov back to its survival-focused roots. So if you thought past wipes were challenging, this one is about to redefine the experience.

Escape From Tarkov Hardcore Wipe Release Date

VAIP ZAVTRA!

— Nikita Buyanov (@nikgeneburn) July 8, 2025

It’s official. Nikita Buyanov has delivered the message Tarkov players were anxiously awaiting — “VAIP ZAVTRA!” — meaning the highly-anticipated Hardcore wipe goes live on July 9, 2025.

What Makes It Hardcore?

Here’s what’s officially changing in the upcoming hardcore wipe:

Change	Description
Flea Market Disabled	You won’t be able to trade or flip items for quick rubles. Every upgrade and every item must be earned the hard way.
Increased Hideout Requirements	Crafting and upgrades now demand more items. Progression slows down significantly.
No “Found in Raid” Needed	For Hideout zones only. You can use any items, not just raid-looted ones, for Hideout upgrades.
Limited Ammo Crafting	Ammo crafting in the Hideout will be heavily restricted. Good luck staying stocked.
Rare Loot Drop Rate Reduced	Rare items will be harder to come by, affecting everything from quests to barters.

With the Flea Market being completely disabled and major crafting nerfs coming into effect, Escape From Tarkov will demand far more from its players. This wipe removes most shortcuts, forcing players to truly grind their way to survival. You’ll feel the impact of every choice, and easy rubles will be a thing of the past.

Why Hardcore Wipe Now?

This intense wipe isn't just for show—it's a key part of the roadmap leading to Tarkov’s full 1.0 launch later in the year. Patch 0.16.8.0 initiates this survival gauntlet, but it's only the beginning. The final Early Access update expected in August will introduce:

• A special in-game event
• Integration with EFT Arena
• Performance optimization on critical maps like Shoreline, Interchange, and Ground Zero

Whether this Hardcore wipe is a one-time challenge or a preview of a future permanent mode remains to be seen. What’s certain is that Battlestate Games will be closely observing how players respond. From solo survivors to squad tacticians, everyone will be pushed to their limits.

As always, Gamer Choice will be ready to support you through the grind. Whether it’s gearing up post-wipe or surviving the early chaos, we’ve got your six.