Table of Contents

General

  • Q: What server is this, who are these people, and can I join?
    • A:  This is the Task Force Reaper (TFR) community server. TFR has been an active and dedicated community for over 12 years, built on shared passion for immersive, cooperative gameplay — primarily in Arma 3, but also across a wide range of other games.

      We are more than just a gaming group; we are a close-knit community of players from around the world who value teamwork, creativity, and mutual respect. New members are always welcome, and anyone interested in serious tactical gameplay is encouraged to join us.
  • ​​Q: What modset does TFR use?
    • A: ​​Details can be found here
  • Q: Does TFR play against players or AI?​
    • A: ​We primarily engage in cooperative gameplay, with approximately 80% of missions involving players working together against AI opponents. The remaining 20% consist of adversarial missions, where players face off against one another in structured player-versus-player scenarios.

      Mission type (cooperative or adversarial), terrain, and date are often indicated in the descriptions of our videos; however, these details may not always be present in every recording.
  • Q: What AI do you use?
    • A: ​ We primarily use LAMBS or vanilla AI for most scenarios. In our experience, heavily scripted AI can lead to performance issues or conflicting behaviors due to mod interactions. We occasionally use skill-based mods such as DMP’s skill system, which helps adjusts AI skill based on the type of force the players will encounter. However, we find that using a minimal number of AI mods provides the most consistent and reliable results.
  • Q: Is Zeus being used in TFR sessions?
    • ​​A: ​Yes. Zeus is used based on the mission maker’s preference. We employ a variety of tools to enhance gameplay, including Zeus, Drongos Map Population, and others. Missions may be built entirely in Eden, scripted, or run live using Zeus. Zeus is also used to adjust scenarios in real-time for issues such as bugs, logistics, or roleplay needs. Additionally, it can be used strategically to control OPFOR as an enemy commander. However, we avoid using Zeus to force outcomes or overly guide player behavior. Most scenarios are left to unfold naturally through AI and player decisions.
  • Q: Does TFR use real life TTPs?
    • ​​A: ​Yes, TFR incorporates real-world inspired Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) into gameplay. We adapt relevant material from official military manuals and handbooks to suit Arma 3, balancing authenticity with playability. Our custom TFR manuals are designed to be educational, practical, and fun, while avoiding unnecessary complexity or procedures with no in-game value.

      We encourage members to explore real-life manuals for their own learning, but it is never required. Some members use real-world sources, others rely entirely on TFR-specific guides — both approaches are supported.
  • Q: Why doesn’t TFR use (example asset) even if it’s more powerful?
    • A: ​Asset selection depends on the mission and its context. Our focus is on maintaining a balanced, engaging experience for all players. Overpowered equipment is generally avoided in favor of curated gear suited to the mission’s faction and objectives.

      We aim for balance and challenge — if players are given powerful tools like tanks or helicopters, the enemy is typically equipped with effective counters such as AT or AA systems. We follow task-oriented organization to ensure all roles have meaningful contributions. If one element dominates gameplay while others are left out, the experience suffers.

      Ultimately, equipment choices are made by the mission maker and staff to suit the scenario, promote teamwork, and keep gameplay dynamic and enjoyable for everyone.
  • ​Q: Do you have members with military or service backgrounds?
    • A: Yes. Many of our members have served, are currently serving, or plan to serve in the military or other professional services. This includes soldiers, marines, airmen, paramedics, law enforcement officers, and more. Several of them actively contribute by sharing real-world experience, helping others learn tactical concepts, and supporting mission design and community development. Their insights and presence enrich the group, but all members — regardless of background — are valued equally.
  • ​Q: Do you give special treatment to people with service backgrounds?
    • A: ​​No. Everyone in our community is treated equally, regardless of background or profession. We do not give special treatment based on military service — or any other status. Whether someone is a soldier, a paramedic, a student, or a store clerk, all members are valued and respected the same. Our culture is built on inclusivity, mutual respect, and camaraderie. Even those who have served actively support this philosophy, and help ensure that no one is elevated or excluded based on their past or present occupation.
  • Q: How long have you been been a community / playing Arma 3?
    • A: Our community began in 2012 on PlayStation 3 and has since grown through various games like Battlefield, Red Dead Redemption, Rainbow Six, and Grand Theft Auto, with a focus on military realism through a console medium. In 2014, we heavily restructured to create a more positive and inclusive environment, which is where we gathered some of our current veteran members.

      We started exploring Arma 2 briefly, but fully transitioned to Arma 3 in 2017 with a hardcore milsim group centered around a fictional U.S. Marine division. This phase provided invaluable lessons in community management. In 2019, we rebranded as Task Force Reaper, shifting to hardcore special operations realism. By 2023, we found a healthy balance between immersive realism and accessible, enjoyable gameplay

      By 2025, we fully transitioned into an open and accessible community with minimal requirements to join. We recognized that gatekeeping was not adding value and was discouraging potential members. Our focus shifted toward creating a welcoming environment where anyone interested in serious cooperative gameplay could take part. This change has helped us grow and build a stronger, more inclusive community.​

      Despite changes and fluctuations over the years, our passion has stayed consistent. We remain committed to growing the community and continuing to deliver meaningful and engaging experiences for all our members.
  • Q: If you're not a milsim anymore, why do you still use a milsim-style name? Why not change it?
    • A: We've used the name Task Force Reaper since 2019, back when we operated as a special operations milsim unit. Over time, as the community evolved and shifted away from strict milsim practices, the name remained—and for good reason. It’s become more than just a label—it’s our identity. It’s how we refer to ourselves, how others recognize us, and often how we present ourselves in-game, especially when running NATO-style missions. The name adds a small but helpful layer of consistency and identity for mission makers and players alike.

      Changing it to something more generic or “casual” might seem logical on paper, but for many of us, it would feel like erasing part of our history. The name carries weight—not just for those who’ve been here from the start, but for everyone who helped shape this community along the way.

      ​Sure, some might not care much about the name, while others see as part of our core identity. But the general consensus is simple: Task Force Reaper is part of who we are, and we’re proud of that.

YouTube

  • Q: Will you make a full or short video of ___?
    • A: ​ Our video editing approach focuses on quality and storytelling rather than a set length. As a result, video durations vary — from a few minutes to over an hour — depending on the content. We aim to highlight the most engaging and meaningful moments from our missions to best represent the experience and keep the content enjoyable for viewers.

Join Process

  • Q: Is there an age limit?
    • ​A: ​ Yes. Due to the nature of our community, we have set a minimum age requirement of 18 for all members.
      ​
      We understand that many younger players are eager to join, and while we appreciate that enthusiasm, we ask that anyone under 18 wait until they meet the age requirement. There are no exceptions to this rule.
  • Q: How do I join?
    • A: Joining Task Force Reaper is simple. Just join our Discord — everything you need to become a member and start playing with us is available there.

      Alternatively, you can fill out our join form, and a staff member will reach out to help get you involved. For full details and instructions, visit our Join Us.
  • Q: Don’t I have to do training or go through some sort of pipeline or probation period?
    • A: We’ve found that formal pipelines, forced training, or probation periods often discourage people from joining or staying. In the past, this approach caused us to lose valuable members, and that was a mistake we learned from.

      Our philosophy now is simple: “Friends first.”
      Everyone joins as an equal. There's no tryout, no gatekeeping, and no pressure. You don’t have to prove yourself to be welcome—you already are.

      We aim to create a space where people want to be involved, not feel forced to be. Encouragement replaces pressure. Integration happens naturally through participation, not through mandatory steps. Assessment, if needed, is handled quietly in the background and only becomes formal if there’s a clear issue.

      This culture of openness allows the community to largely regulate itself and reduces unnecessary staff involvement, while still maintaining a healthy, inclusive environment.

      A note on our philosophy:
      There’s inspiration in how Special Forces teams operated during the Vietnam War — by living among local populations, building trust, and offering tools — not by forcing anyone to fight. Over time, the locals chose to stand and support the mission because they believed in it.

      We apply the same principle here:
      • We live and play alongside our members,
      • We offer access to tools, events, and opportunities,
      • And we let people decide when—and if—they want to step up

        It’s a sustainable, respectful, and human-centered approach to building a lasting community.
  • Q: What is the training like?
    • ​A: We don’t have a mandatory training pipeline. Instead, training is entirely voluntary and tailored to what you want to learn. Whether you're interested in infantry tactics, aviation, air defense, tanks, leadership, or anything else—we’ve got you covered. 

      All it takes is asking: “Hey, can anyone teach me ___?” in general chat or reaching out to someone directly.

      The training can be as informal or as structured as you prefer—from a quick 30-minute overview to a multi-day learning session. We use the Crawl–Walk–Run method to ensure effective, stress-free progression and draw from real-world frameworks like the U.S. Army’s Training Circulars (TCs), Task, Conditions and Standards (TC&S) and the USMC’s Mission Task Purpose (MTPs), adapted to fit Arma.

      ​We also offer:
      • Optional group practice sessions
      • Real-world inspired handbooks and manuals
      • Self-guided learning resources
      • Supportive mentors and instructors​

        ​Failure is expected and encouraged as part of the process. Everyone starts somewhere, and we’re here to help you grow at your own pace, without pressure.​
  • Q: What can I do in the group?
    • A: Whatever you'd like—so long as you're following our code of conduct and being respectful, you're free to engage however you choose. Play any game, invite others to join you, participate in our Arma sessions, or just hang out and chat. We're a community first, and you're welcome to be as active or casual as you prefer.
  • Q: I have some sort of special situation. Will you be able to accommodate me?
    • A: ​ While we don’t offer special treatment, we absolutely strive to be inclusive and supportive. If you have a unique circumstance—health-related or otherwise—we’ll do our best to work with you in a respectful and understanding way.

      That said, we are not medical professionals or caretakers, so while we can offer community support and accommodations within reason, we cannot replace professional care or services.

      ​If there’s something you'd like us to be aware of, feel free to mention it in the contact form or when speaking with staff. We're here to help however we can, within our means.
  • Q: How do the timezones work out for me?
    • A: ​Our community includes members from many regions worldwide — the U.S., Canada, South America, Europe, Australia and many other places — giving us a broad international presence.

      ​If you find it difficult to join missions or sessions due to timezone differences, please reach out. We’re often able to adjust start times to better accommodate you. Additionally, you’re welcome to host your own sessions with staff support to suit your timezone.