Hello, explorers 👋
Our team is actively working on the upcoming 0.13 update, and in February, we plan to launch its first beta. As we mentioned in our last dev diary, we’re changing our approach to beta versions, initially focusing on technical testing, with new content and features added gradually as they’re ready. So don’t expect the new location in the very first beta!
We’ve been reading your comments and watching your videos, and today’s post is dedicated to a Tips & Tricks roundup, highlighting some mechanics that may not be obvious or are often overlooked. Feel free to share your own life hacks in the comments so we can build the ultimate ITR2 guide collection together!
[h2]Weapons[/h2]
• Most firearms allow you to partially eject a magazine instead of dropping it completely. Hold A/X instead of just pressing it, and you’ll be able to pull the magazine out manually with your other hand. (Keep in mind - not all guns have this feature!)
• While holding a gun with both hands, press Y/B on the supporting hand to hold your breath for a steadier shot.
• You can transfer rounds between ammo boxes, not just from boxes to magazines.

• Empty ammo boxes you no longer need can be disposed of in the trash container at your Base. The Committee’s maintenance crew will clear it out while you’re in the Radius.
• Every firearm in the game—except for double-barrel shotguns—features a slide/bolt lock (even when not entirely realistic, it’s very useful). To engage it, pull the bolt back and press the fire mode switch button. The bolt will stay locked open. Pressing the same button again will release it.
• Using the bolt lock, you can manually load a round directly into the chamber or quickly charge the weapon when swapping magazines.
[h2]Items & Gear[/h2]
• Your backpack has more storage than you think—you can use the inside of the lid as well as certain outer sections for extra placement options.

• To swap backpacks, first remove your current one the same way you remove a chest rig (hold A/X and press Grip on the same controller). Then, simply equip the new one. Alternatively, use a backpack stand at the Base—just hang up your old pack and put on a new one.
• The headlamp can be worn on its own or attached to a Sfera Helmet. Other ballistic helmets feature rails where you can mount weapon attachments (such as weapon flashlights).
• Attachments can only be mounted while holding the helmet in your hand—you can’t modify a helmet while wearing it.
• To turn on a mounted flashlight, bring your hand close and press Trigger.

• You can store a turned-on flashlight in your thigh pocket, keeping both hands free while lighting your way in an emergency.
• No need to bend down or reach far to grab items—use distance grip instead: point at an item, hold Trigger, then press Grip.

• Health syringes differ in recovery speed, amount healed, rarity, and price:
• Red Emergency Syringe – Common, cheap, heals almost instantly but restores only a small amount.
• Blue Standard Syringe – Less common, more expensive, heals slowly, restores about half of your health.
• Green Full Recovery Syringe – Rare, expensive, heals quickly, fully restores health.

[h2]Expeditions Into the Radius[/h2]
• Gunfire and light sources reveal your position to enemies.
• Mimics can see and hear you, and they remember your last known location. They can’t see through walls, but they move and shoot based on where they think you are.
• Pay attention to sound cues—they don’t just warn of nearby enemies, but also give other useful signals. For example, armor plates and helmets make a distinct sound when they break, so you’ll know your protection is gone without checking.
• Running, walking, jumping, and sleeping all affect your hunger differently. The more active you are, the faster hunger builds up—always carry food and eat in time.
• Different artifact nests require different extraction techniques. Try different approaches to see what works.
• You can check if an item or artifact is a quest objective by holding Y or B while looking at it.
• And remember: red water kills!

[h2]Technical Notes[/h2]
Some VR-specific troubleshooting tips that can help in ITR2 and other VR games:
• If you use Virtual Desktop, disable SSW in the settings for better game stability.
• If you use Oculus Link, open Oculus Debug Tool (found in \Oculus\Support\oculus-diagnostics) and disable Asynchronous Spacewarp for a smoother experience.
Did you learn something new from this diary entry? Please send it to a newer explorer, and don’t forget to share your own tips & tricks, they just might help someone survive out there.
See you in the Radius ☀️
[h3]Latest Diary Entries[/h3]
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The End of the Year🔸
Common Requests🔸
The Upcoming Update and More[h3]Socials[/h3]
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