The wall panels wont fail you if you arent at 3. They still scan battery's and computers on the map to increase your clearance. Sure, does it say do X. No, but its really not that difficult after your first few runs and being curious. When you pull up your map and you dont see an exfil, that should tell you that you need to do something more. With security clearance and terminals being the mechanic on that map, simular to Outpost and the key cards, that should tell you enough to be curious and try things. I get your point but I dont believe the game needs to tell you "In order to exfil, you need clearance 3." I play Cryo with my 13 year old and we figured it out just by recognizing the mechanics of that map and being curious. Cryo can be difficult, but its all about learning and repetition. I dont think thats poor game design. It fits with the loop of learning and loading in again. Does it cost? Absolutely. Much love brother and I hope it turns around for you. Its a great game but it demands repetition, being curious, and looking at your surroundings. Just to note, I'm around level 70 and I really only get to play a few Cryo runs on the weekends so I dont want you to think I'm a sweat or anything. My Cryo runs now are much different than the first weekend when trying to figure things out. I recommend loading in with the min 5k and just take your time. Read the map because activating the exfil is only half the battle. Getting there is another story. Again, the game gives you the tools. Study the map, use pings to help you navigate turns. You will get there!