Ratting, the activity of hunting NPC pirates («rats») for bounties and loot in EVE Online, is a popular way for players to earn ISK, especially in nullsec and lowsec regions. Effective ratting requires understanding the best practices to maximize efficiency and minimize risks. Here’s a guide to optimizing your ratting activities in New Eden:

Choosing the Right Ship and Fit

• Know Your Enemies: Different pirate factions have weaknesses to specific damage types. Tailor your ship’s weapons and drones to exploit these vulnerabilities for faster kills.
• Ship Selection: For beginners, Vexor Navy Issue (VNI) used to be a popular choice due to its efficiency and low cost, though changes in the game may affect current preferences. Battlecruisers, battleships (e.g., Dominix, Rattlesnake), and even certain Strategic Cruisers are preferred for their tanking ability and DPS output.
• Fit for the Job: Include a balance of tanking (shield or armor), DPS (consider faction-specific drones and ammo), and, if necessary, warp stability to escape potential PvP encounters.

Ratting Locations

• System Security: Higher bounty payouts are typically found in lower security (nullsec and certain lowsec) systems. However, these areas are more prone to PvP encounters.
• Anomaly and Signature Sites: Focus on Combat Anomalies and DED Rated Complexes, which can be scanned down using probes. These sites offer better loot and bounty payouts.
• Intel and Local Chat: Stay aware of potential threats by monitoring local chat and any intel channels. Being aware of who’s in system with you can save your ship.

Ratting Efficiency

• Orbit at Optimal Range: Keep your ship at an optimal range from NPCs to maximize damage while minimizing incoming hits. This range varies depending on your fit and the NPCs you’re engaging.
• Speed Tanking: In smaller, faster ships, maintaining high velocity can make you a harder target for NPCs to hit. This is especially effective in cruisers and below.
• Use Drones Wisely: Deploy drones according to the rat’s weakness and recall them if they are targeted. Micro-managing drones can significantly boost your efficiency.
• Salvaging: Consider whether to salvage wrecks based on time versus reward. Sometimes, focusing on killing rats for bounties is more profitable than salvaging.

Safety Measures

• Local Chat and Intel Channels: Always keep an eye on local chat for unknown pilots and use intel channels to track potential threats.
• D-Scan: Regularly use your Directional Scanner to check for incoming ships, especially if you’re in a site visible to combat probes.
• Safe Spots: Have safe spots in your ratting system to warp to in case of PvP threats. These can be created between celestial bodies.
• Standing Fleets: If available, join your alliance or corporation’s standing fleet for additional protection and rapid response support.

Advanced Tips

• Carrier Ratting: For advanced players, using carriers for ratting can be highly profitable due to their powerful fighters and ability to quickly clear sites. However, carriers are expensive and can attract unwanted PvP attention.
• Ratting in Supercarriers: The pinnacle of PvE content, supercarriers offer immense firepower but require significant investment and come with the risk of being a prime target for enemy players.
• Skill Optimization: Train relevant skills to improve your ship’s tanking ability, DPS, and drone efficiency. Skills like Drone Interfacing, Weapon Upgrades, and spaceship command skills for your chosen ship can markedly increase your ratting efficiency.

Conclusion

Ratting in EVE Online can be a lucrative endeavor if approached with the right strategies and precautions. By choosing the correct ship and fit, optimizing your tactics, and staying vigilant for potential threats, you can maximize your ISK earnings while enjoying the PvE content that EVE offers.