404 Places

404 Places is a location-based puzzle game set in Gothenburg where players walk to real-world places to solve on-site signals and collect encrypted loot. The game uses GPS tracking and includes mechanics such as a backpack inventory, energy, powerups, and a workshop for crafting items. Players earn experience points, bits, and reward points, which can be redeemed in a reward shop for real-world prizes at higher clearance levels.

To get started, players must obtain an invitation code because registration is currently closed and a waitlist is available. Once in the game, users create a gaming identity called a 'callsign' rather than using their real name. The platform also features community tools, leaderboards, an inbox for messages, and partnership integrations allowing tailored reward drops based on player interests.

The game requires players to be 16+ years old and uses an email for recovery only. Access is controlled by invitation codes, and the platform features a GPS signal search function that requires audio to be on. Players can also choose their interests, such as Food & drink, Culture, or Tech, to tailor partner drops to their taste.

Players can spend Bits on powerups and refills in the Bits Shop or craft rare items from ERR fragments in the Workshop. The game includes a weekly supply reset and a portal active timer that expires if items are not extracted. Users can also scan active signals for 60 seconds and manage their GPS settings to save battery.

Some reviewers praise the immersive puzzle mechanics and the unique combination of walking to real-world locations to solve signals. The game's GPS tracking and backpack inventory system are also highlighted as engaging features that keep players involved in the gameplay loop.

Players can report bugs by selecting what they were doing, such as starting a run, during a run, or solving a puzzle. The app also allows users to export data or delete their account, which schedules deletion within 30 days. Partner rewards are forfeited immediately upon account deletion and cannot be restored.

Players can initialize a portal at their current coordinates to extract ERRs before the timer expires. The game also features a vault for secured items and a field activity tracker that shows total walked distance. Users can also manage their weekly goal progress directly within the app interface.

The app includes a GPS signal search feature that searches for signals with varying accuracy levels. Players can choose to keep the screen awake during active runs, though this uses more battery. There is also a battery saver mode that lowers GPS frequency and reduces animations.

The game uses a tiered backpack system with a maximum of 8 slots for Tier 1 items. Players can also use a weekly supply reset to manage their inventory. The portal active timer is a critical mechanic that requires players to return to the location before extraction.

The platform integrates with partner rewards based on player interests, allowing for tailored drops. Users can also access a field activity log to monitor their walking goals. The game's design encourages exploration of Gothenburg through its location-based puzzle elements.

Players can create a gaming identity called a 'callsign' which serves as their in-game name. The system also allows users to pick interests like Nightlife or Health to customize their experience. The game's interface includes options to manage privacy settings and data export.

The official website of 404 Places is 404places.com.

On Trustburn, 404 Places has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 4 reviews.