The Militsioner ticket booth key unlocks the train station's ticket office, allowing you to steal an escape ticket without buying one from the Cashier. You can obtain this key through two confirmed methods in the playtest builds: looting it from an underground ladder area behind the station, or receiving it directly as a gift from the NPC known as Friend.
Because entering restricted zones and unlocking the booth will alert the Colossal Policeman, getting and using this key requires precise timing around his sleep cycles or scheduled days off.
Where to Find the Militsioner Ticket Booth Key
The primary physical spawn for the key is in the subterranean space behind the train tracks. An alternate method relies on dialogue interactions with Friend.
Method 1: The Underground Ladder Route
The most consistent way to loot the key yourself is by navigating past the security barriers behind the ticket booth into the underground maintenance area.
- Wait for the right window: Only attempt this route when the Militsioner is asleep or on his day off. The area behind the ticket counter is restricted, and trespassing while he is active will immediately trigger suspicion or an arrest.
- Access the restricted platform: Head across the train platform behind the ticket booth. Unlock or bypass the gate leading toward the abandoned apartments. If the gate is locked and you lack a lockpick, climb up to the second-floor exterior roof section of the abandoned apartments and jump over the perimeter fence.
- Drop into the passage: Once over the barrier, drop down to the lower walkway on the opposite side of the fence.
- Locate the ladder: Follow the path around the building corner into the underground corridor. You will find a vertical ladder leading into a small utility space.
- Collect the key: Climb the ladder. At the top, you will find a stash of rubles alongside the ticket booth key sitting on the platform.
Method 2: Receiving the Key from Friend
In certain runs and dialogue sequences—particularly when encountering Friend during the giant's day off—Friend will hand the ticket booth key directly to you. During these interactions, Friend remarks on your situation, offers advice, and hands over the key to assist your escape attempt. However, if Friend does not offer the item in your current run or day cycle, you must use the underground route described above.
Key Acquisition Methods Compared
| Method | Location / Source | Requirements | Primary Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Underground Ladder | Subterranean area behind abandoned apartments | Lockpick or rooftop jumping route | Trespassing in a restricted zone |
| Friend Dialogue | Direct NPC encounter | Specific story/dialogue trigger or day-off event | Friend may not offer the key on every cycle |
How to Use the Ticket Booth Key Safely
Obtaining the key is only half the challenge; using it on the booth door carries severe risks if the Militsioner is watching.
1. Wait Until the Militsioner Cannot See the Door
The ticket booth sits directly in open view near the tracks. If you walk up and unlock the door while the giant officer is awake and looking toward the platform, he will instantly react and grab you.
- Best timing: Use the key when the Militsioner is fully asleep at night, unconscious after consuming alcohol (such as champagne found in the sewer garage), or looking away on his day off.
- Avoid active hours: Do not attempt to open the booth during standard morning hours when the giant actively patrols the streets and tracks.
2. Enter and Grab the Ticket
Once unlocked, slip inside the ticket booth. Inside, you can collect:
- The valid train ticket required for the daily 13:00 (1:00 PM) electric train.
- A radio, which can later be gifted to the Militsioner if he expresses boredom and wants music.
Note that breaking into the booth alters NPC routines. In the playtest, breaking in causes the Cashier to no longer appear at her post, and the Militsioner will inspect the scene or express suspicion if he notices the break-in the following morning.
3. Catch the Train at 13:00
After securing the ticket, retreat to your hideout or remain out of sight. The electric train arrives daily at 13:00 (1:00 PM). Wait for the train to pull into the station, step aboard with your acquired ticket, and avoid any final retaliatory grabs from the giant to complete the escape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you enter the ticket booth without the key?
Yes. You can also throw a brick to break the ticket booth window when the train arrives and grab the ticket in a hurry. Alternatively, you can buy a ticket legitimately from the Cashier for 200 rubles if you improve relations between the giant and the station staff.
Does the ticket booth key disappear after one use?
In current playtest builds, keys remain in your inventory or unlock their target doors permanently for that run cycle.
What should I do if the Militsioner catches me entering the booth?
If the giant catches you unlocking the booth, he will pick you up and send you to jail or impose a fine. If you are sent to jail, you will lose progress on that day's plan and must reset your escape attempt on the following morning.
