How to Get Recon XP in WARDOGS
If you’re wondering how to get Recon XP in WARDOGS, some great ways to get started include:
- Utilizing Spotting equipment as early and often as possible, such as Binoculars
- Unlocking the SKS at Level 5 Recon and equipping it immediately
- Attempting to combine both of the above to score long range kills, which increase the rewards you receive on a kill (this also includes headshots)
The Best XP Early Game for Recon XP
As soon as you drop into a match, purchase Binoculars for your equipment slot. Despite being Recon, the first Sniper Rifle is very weak, dealing around 89~ damage with a headshot – not even a one shot kill. As a result equipping Binoculars to spot players is a fast method to earn XP. Each time you hover over a player you’ll spot them, earning Recon XP immediately. If the spotted enemy dies or you kill them, you’ll get additional cash and Recon XP. As soon as you hit level 5, unlock and use the SKS as each kill with this weapon gives you Recon XP and is far better than the first Sniper.
As soon as you unlock the Monocular at Level 2 Recon, use it over the Binoculars, it has a better range zoom. This also later applies to the Rangefinder at Level 8 Recon, which is a much better spotting tool.
What Recon XP is and how it differs from your account level
WARDOGS uses a broad progression system based around specific role-based tracks. These tracks supplement the overall account level you have. Depending on how you spend your time in the game, you’ll find yourself heading down a playstyle path based on those choices. Using Recon-specific items such as the Spotting equipment or precision weapons increase your Recon level AND your account level simultaneously. However, other moments in gameplay, such as getting a kill with a Grenade or simply surviving in the zone, will level your account level or another track only.
As a result, it is important to pick and choose your equipment wisely, based on how you wish to tweak your experience to your preference. Utilizing the following will progress your Recon XP and account level:
- Spotting enemy players with Binoculars, Rangefinder etc
- Killing or getting Kill Assist on a spotted target
- Using precision weapons such as the SKS or SV98 and securing kills or kill assists with them
- The Compound Bow also counts as a Recon weapon, with a very unique playstyle
Driver XP Curve, Numbers and Unlocks
As you can see from our XP Tables, you only need to reach level 5 Recon to really start consistently progressing the track. Once you can combine spotting with reliable Recon XP giving weapons, you’ll zoom through the levels. Take a careful look into our XP tables to see how far you need to go for your ideal loadout and plan ahead.
Of course, as with anything that is in an Early Access build state, things can and likely will change frequently. Keep checking back for up to date progression information!
How to Spot a Target in WARDOGS
To Spot an enemy target in WARDOGS, you’ll need to use spotter equipment such as a Rangefinder and find a good vantage point or in general open lines of sight. Bring out the spotter equipment of your choice and hold right-click to zoom into their scope.
When a target is found, a “Tracking Target” message appears on the screen and the rectangle around the reticule begins to generate. Once the rectangle fully forms, the enemy target is spotted, revealing their live position on the map for your team. Using spotter equipment like the Rangefinder also allows you to see the distance you’re spotting them from without having to look at the map. You’ll also be notified when an enemy you spotted has been killed, giving you Recon XP and account level XP.
Spotting targets doesn’t stop at infantry, you can also spot vehicles for Mortars and Artillery to zero in on and destroy. In short, spotting is an integral role to play for a team and has massive impact when used correctly.
For example, after spotting an enemy vehicle, a Mortar team can open their map and check the range of the vehicles location (as highlighted by the red circle on the image above). Once they’ve adjusted to the numbers, they can fire and take out the spotted vehicle with ease.
Frequently asked questions
What is the fastest way to get Recon XP in WARDOGS?
As of August 2026, the fastest way to get Recon XP in WARDOGS is a combination of spotting enemies and using DMRs for consistent, easy kills that net Recon XP.
Do you need kills to level up Recon in WARDOGS?
No, it is not mandatory to kill even a single player to level Recon. You can spend the entire time spotting enemies and gaining Recon XP from the initial spot and kill assists from other players.
How much does spotting pay in WARDOGS?
Spotting an enemy pays $100 minimum initially, this amount diminishes on refreshes and overall spotting is very dynamic in terms of XP and cash gain. Check back for a more detailed breakdown later.
Is Recon XP separate from your account level
Every action in WARDOGS contributes to your account level. However, specific actions feed into both account level and a progression path it’s tied to. In the case of Recon, killing a player with a DMR gives both account level progression and Recon XP.
Should I use the first Sniper Rifle to get Recon XP?
No, we do not currently recommend using the first Sniper Rifle at all. It does not one shot to the head even without a helmet equipped. As a result, just spot enemies until level 5 and use a SKS.
Does Recon progress carry over from Beta to Early Access?
No, your progress will not carry over into Early Access. Also, Early Access and the game in general operates on a wipe model.
Will these payouts still be accurate at Early Access launch?
Unknown. Every number here comes from a pre-release build, and economy values are among the first things adjusted in a live Early Access title.
