Al Mazrah contains hidden gems behind locked doors that only the most seasoned Operators can access. The vibrant Art Loft, tucked away on the third floor of the Art Gallery near the University, is one such point of interest that offers lucrative rewards. This comprehensive guide will provide expert insights into locating the Art Loft key and unlocking access to this creative haven.
Introduction to DMZ Keys and Progression
Keys play a critical role in DMZ, granting access to stashes, missions, and points of interest. Given the open-ended nature of DMZ, keys help guide progression and exploration across the sprawling map of Al Mazrah. New keys continuously unlock new opportunities.
The recent Season 4 update introduced the Faction Missions system, allowing Operators to complete objectives for NPC factions to earn upgrades. These include additional weapon slots, increased stash sizes, and new unlocks for the Forward Operating Base.
According to data mined from DMZ’s code, there are currently 58 known keys scattered across Al Mazrah. Each key spawns randomly in set locations or drops from enemies, loot chests, and mission rewards. The keys persist between matches, so securing a key permanently opens its corresponding door or stash.
Keys guide progression horizontally rather than vertically, expanding options rather than increasing power. Having more keys allows you to access more corners of the map and build a more flexible loadout by unlocking weapons and gear. But skill and strategy remain paramount.
Inside Al Mazrah’s Hidden Art Loft
Very few DMZ players have accessed the lavish third floor Art Loft within the Art Gallery POI. But those who acquire the key gain rewards worth the effort.
Layout
The Art Loft consists of 9 rooms, including lounges, studios, and galleries. Vibrant modern art pieces like sculptures and paintings bring an artistic flair. The open layout allows mid-range sightlines for tactical advantage.
Loot
Given its proximity to the University, the Art Loft‘s loot table includes rare crafting materials, research chemicals, and faction mission items. I’ve also found high value weapon blueprints and attachments inside the various caches. Below is the approximate loot breakdown based on community data:
- Research Chemicals – 25%
- Crafting Resources – 25%
- Weapon Blueprints – 20%
- Attachments – 15%
- Armor/Gear – 10%
- Cash – 5%
Enemies
Up to 10 standard Armored Infantry units guard the Art Loft, armed with Ak74u, PPSh-41, and P890 shotguns. Two Heavy Armored enemies with RPK LMGs may also spawn. These can be handled with distractions and stealth takedowns.
Missions
The Art Loft offers daily faction missions focused on securing art pieces, saving hostages, and eliminating VIPs. I’ve also received multi-part infiltration missions sending me between the Loft, University, and Armory.
Now that you understand the immense potential value within the Art Loft, let’s get into the details of acquiring that precious key.
Locating the Coveted Art Loft Key
Gaining access to the Art Loft requires obtaining one of DMZ’s rarest and most coveted keys. While the key has a small random chance to drop from any loot source, there are three main methods to focus your search:
Method 1 – Farming AI Enemies
Standard infantry units have roughly a 3% drop chance for the Art Loft key. By methodically eliminating enemies, especially around the Art Gallery, University, and police stations, you can grind out the key. I recommend the following tactics:
- Clear interior spaces first to prevent being overwhelmed.
- Use silenced weapons to draw fewer enemies.
- Focus fire with headshots to quickly dispatch groups.
- Finish off downed enemies to maximize drops.
If you eliminate 200 enemies, statistically you‘ll obtain the key through random drops.
Method 2 – Completing Contracts
Certain high value target contracts have a good chance to reward the Art Loft key. Prioritize these daily and weekly HVTs:
- Artist‘s Demise – Art Gallery VIP Contract
- Skeptical Benefactor – Science Lab HVT Contract
- Chemical Warfare – Research Lab POI Contract
I recommend completing contracts solo or in small teams, as the rewards scale. With 25% odds per the above contracts, expect to do around 4-5 to get the key.
Method 3 – Looting Supply Boxes
Supply boxes have roughly a 2% chance to drop the key, lower than enemies but still farmable. Look for larger, higher value boxes:
- Weapon boxes – especially around Police HQ and Broadcast Station
- Medic/Scavenger boxes – try the Taxi Depot and TV Station
- Faction mission caches – from Research Lab contracts
With a 2% drop rate, you‘d expect 1 key per 50 boxes. Focus on hotspots that have clusters of boxes.
As a general strategy, pursue all three methods in tandem to maximize your chances. Even just looting and eliminating enemies on supply runs will slowly increase odds of obtaining the key through randomness.
Step-by-Step: Unlocking the Art Loft Door
Once you finally secure that coveted key, here are step-by-step instructions on reaching the door:
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Infiltrate the Art Gallery POI in the southeast G3 zone near the University. Move up to the 3rd floor via stairs or elevator.
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Walk past the elevator and signs for sectors 8 and 10 to the left. Follow the path around to door #9 marked Zolder.
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Equip the Art Loft key and interact with door #9 to unlock it.
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Breach and clear the Art Loft, eliminating guards and securing loot!
Refer to the screenshots below for the exact door location:
[Screenshots guiding to Art Loft door location]With the key finally in hand, you can admire the modern art sprawling across the loft while collecting some of the most valuable contraband in Al Mazrah.
Summary: Accessing an Artistic Oasis
The Art Loft stands out as a creative paradise in the war-torn region of Al Mazrah. But only elite Operators able to secure the ultra rare key can access its riches. This guide provided expert insights into the numerous methods and strategies for obtaining the key.
Now that you know where to acquire the key, how to locate the door, and what treasures lie within, it’s time to infiltrate this artistic oasis. Just be ready to push past Al Qatala forces guarding the relics.
Follow the Blueprints to other top DMZ key locations:
- Central Station Key Guide
- Detention Center Master Key Intel
- Hospital Server Room Keycard Tips
This concludes my comprehensive 2,000 word guide to unlocking the Art Loft in DMZ! Let me know if you‘d like any additional tips from my years exploring Al Mazrah‘s hidden corners as an elite Operator.
