New PvE Event & Story Chapter — "Icebreaker"

This update introduces a new expedition PvE event titled "Icebreaker" and the story chapter "Boreas". Players investigate a trapped vessel in Tarkov, completing missions focused on PvE exploration.

The event takes place on a dedicated map for 1–3 players (available across all modes) where you fight hostile AI enemies solo or in a group, without random public matchmaking.

Gameplay Mechanics & QoL Changes

• Quest Locator Assist: New system that helps players locate required quest items by showing an expanded directional indicator as they get close to spawn points.
• Extraction Guidance: Added extra notifications when using signal flares for extraction.
• Performance Setting: New experimental graphics option for high-end GPUs that transfers specific lighting calculations from the CPU to the GPU.

Balance & Items

• Increased the mortality rate after injecting the Obdolbos 1 stimulant to 33%.
• Added new streamer-themed items.

Customization

New faction customization outfits for USEC and BEAR have been made available.

Bug Fixes & Performance Enhancements

• Optimization: Addressed audio-related memory leaks and optimized the system-wide animation framework to lower overall CPU utilization.
• Fixed an issue where the limb-selection window for healing would occasionally disappear.
• Resolved visual glitches linked to resampling in the Hideout and Trader menus.
• Fixed a crash/error (228) when removing expired filters from the Water Collector in the Hideout.
• Corrected instances of client performance drops when managing inventory ammunition.
• Solved a bug where kills with specific shotguns did not count toward quest progression (e.g., Silent Caliber and Punisher).
• Fixed a compass direction error experienced after leaving the BTR vehicle, alongside multiple minor gameplay and map geometry adjustments.