Escape from Tarkov, the well-known extraction shooter from Battlestate Games, is preparing to launch on Steam after years of being available only through the developer’s platform. Nikita Buyanov, head of Battlestate Games, confirmed on X that the game’s Steam page “will be available soon,” although further details will be revealed at a later date.
Yes! The page on Steam will be available soon.
— Nikita Buyanov (@nikgeneburn) August 31, 2025
All the details later. pic.twitter.com/jFLYX1UcaU
The announcement comes just a day after the studio teased the news with a GIF posted on X, showing a man spraying steam from an iron. Earlier this month, Buyanov also confirmed that Escape from Tarkov will finally leave beta and reach its long-awaited 1.0 release on 15 November 2025, over eight years after the beta was made available in July 2017. The studio is also planning to bring the game to consoles, although no launch window has been shared for these versions.
With the Steam page not yet live and few specifics disclosed, the news has left long-time fans with pressing questions. One of the most significant concerns is whether existing players will need to repurchase the game on Steam, and how this change might impact ongoing issues such as cheating.
Steam release follows years of beta testing
Escape from Tarkov has been in development for over a decade, attracting a loyal community during its extended beta phase. The game, which blends first-person shooting with looting mechanics and high-stakes extraction gameplay, has become a staple in the hardcore shooter genre.
Battlestate Games’ decision to bring the title to Steam marks a significant milestone for the studio, which has previously kept the game exclusive to its own launcher. The upcoming release is expected to significantly expand the game’s audience, although the studio has yet to clarify how existing accounts and player progress will integrate with Steam.
While players are eager for more information, the announcement demonstrates Battlestate Games’ commitment to evolving Escape from Tarkov and making it more accessible.
Controversy over premium editions
The Steam news comes shortly after Battlestate Games faced backlash over its new Unheard Edition, priced at US$250, which introduced a new player-versus-environment mode. Long-time players expressed frustration because the game’s previous premium package, Edge of Darkness, had promised access to all future downloadable content.
Many Edge of Darkness owners argued that they should automatically receive access to the PvE content. Still, Battlestate Games initially maintained that the new mode did not count as downloadable content. Following community outrage, Buyanov issued an apology and confirmed that those who purchased Edge of Darkness would also gain access to the new features.
This controversy highlighted tensions between the studio and its dedicated player base, underscoring the importance of clear communication as the game moves toward its full release.
Fans await more details
Despite the uncertainty, anticipation for Escape from Tarkov’s Steam debut remains high. Fans hope that the transition to a major platform will bring technical improvements, enhanced anti-cheat measures, and a smoother overall experience.
With its 1.0 release now officially dated for November 2025 and a Steam page on the way, the game is poised for a new chapter after years of refinement and controversy. More information is expected from Battlestate Games in the coming months.
