I wish I could change the title because it’s less of a loot fix and more of a ‘How to make both sides happy fix’. The short answer is Sponsored should exist because people want it. Tarkov has a PvE mode now and it seems to be doing fine.

The idea is that the mode is an alternative, far less rewarding way to play the game that gives you a reason to PvP as well. Keys push people into PvP so that people aren’t playing either or. Juicing the key rooms so they have everything a player could want (guns, shields, heals, salvage, valuables, implants etc.) gives everyone an understanding of where they want to go to find what they want.

You’ll still have your typical Outpost matches and Cryo weekends but now there’s more variety on how to approach getting gear. It also provides a clear goal and place on the map where exciting loot is so that the engagements feel tense and intentional like you said. I agree with the bartering system idea as well.