The “BotPMC” error in Escape from Tarkov is one of the most disruptive issues players face—whether in the live game (official servers) or the SPT-AKI mod (Single-Player Tarkov). This error typically manifests in two ways:
- Live EFT: Crashes with “BotPmc was not found” or server disconnections.
- SPT-AKI: “Brain-dead” PMC bots that freeze, spin in place, or fail to engage.
April 2025 Update: Battlestate Games’ 0.16.6.0 patch addressed several AI-related bugs, but modded players may still need fixes. Below, we break down the causes, solutions, and latest patch impacts.
What Is the BotPMC Error?
The term BotPMC refers to Private Military Company (PMC) bots used in raids. The error typically manifests as:
- Live EFT: Game crashes or error messages like
BotPMC not found. - SPT-AKI (Single Player): Bots freeze, spin in place, or fail to fight/react properly.
This happens due to missing AI assignments, broken mod scripts, or server instability.
Causes of BotPMC Errors
In Live EFT
- Backend Server Lag: During high-traffic periods, bot generation fails.
- Corrupt Game Files: Damaged installation leads to AI script errors.
- Poor Network Connection: Can prevent bot behavior syncing.
In SPT-AKI
- AI Logic Bugs: Especially since version 3.2.5+, PMCs may get stuck in an “Assault brain” state.
- Mod Conflicts: SAIN, Questing Bots, or DONUTS mods often overlap AI behaviors.
- Improper Load Order: Mods must be installed in a compatible sequence.
- Outdated Hotfixes: If below SPT-AKI 3.3.0 HF4, known pathfinding bugs exist.
How to Fix the BotPMC Error
For Live EFT Players
Even if you’re playing on official servers, server-side disruptions, bad files, or local network glitches can trigger the BotPMC error. Here’s how to troubleshoot it.
1. Verify Game Integrity
Corrupted or missing files can prevent PMCs from spawning properly.
- Open BSG Launcher
- Click
⋮ > Integrity Check
2. Reset Network Settings
A faulty DNS cache or misconfigured socket settings can block server communication.
- Open Command Prompt (Admin)
- Run:
ipconfig /flushdns
netsh winsock reset- Restart your PC and router
3. Check Server Status
Sometimes the issue lies on Battlestate’s end due to outages or maintenance.
- Visit Downdetector – EFT
- Follow @bstategames on Twitter for live updates
For SPT-AKI Players
Modded versions like SPT-AKI can suffer from broken bot logic or AI mod conflicts. Here’s how to fix common causes.
1. Update to the Latest Hotfix (SPT-AKI 3.3.0 HF4+)
Older versions have known issues with PMC pathfinding and idle behavior.
- Download from the official SPT-AKI Stable Releases
2. Adjust AI Engagement Cooldown Settings
Bots may appear passive due to delayed engagement logic set in the config files.
- Go to:
\Aki_Data\Server\database\globals.json- Edit:
"SavagePlayCooldown": 03. Check for Mod Conflicts
Running multiple AI-related mods can break PMC behavior or override logic chains.
- Update Questing Bots to v0.9.1+
- Temporarily disable SWAG/DONUTS mods and test stability
- Ensure Fika is running the latest build
4. Debug with Log Files
To diagnose which bots are broken, you can use logs to track their behavior and AI assignment.
- Kill the frozen PMC in-raid
- Note their dogtag name
- Open:
BepInEx\LogOutput.log- Search for entries like:
Bot4 is a PMC but does not have [PMC] Base Brain! Current Brain Assignment: [Assault]Patch 0.16.6.0 Fixes That Help
Battlestate Games’ April 29th, 2025 patch introduced major AI improvements:
- Fixed bots spinning in place
- Rebalanced aim logic to reduce instant headshots
- Patched pathfinding errors on Lighthouse, Shoreline, and Labs
- Bots now announce attacks vocally again
- Better grenade animation behavior
These improvements apply to:
- Official raids in Live EFT
- Modding base logic in SPT-AKI (especially if using base AI)
Tips to Prevent Future Errors
For Live EFT
- Always use a wired connection
- Avoid heavy multitasking or downloads in background
- Disable “Mip Streaming” in graphics settings if facing post-raid freeze
For SPT-AKI
- Don’t stack too many AI overhaul mods
- Back up your
profilesfolder before updating mods - Follow mod load order recommendations from the SPT-AKI community
Final Thoughts
The “BotPMC” error in Tarkov can be a nightmare, but the April 2025 fixes—and proper mod hygiene—can significantly reduce these problems.
For modders:
- Stay updated with SPT-AKI’s hotfixes.
- Avoid conflicting AI mods unless verified compatible.
- Use logs for precise error tracking.
For Live EFT players:
- Rely on integrity checks and server status updates.
- Expect gradual improvements as BSG continues refining bot AI.
Still stuck? Drop your exact error message in the comment box below.
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