Playing
How do I play?
Read the clue, fly the 3D globe to where you think it points, zoom in close, centre the crosshair on the exact spot and press Drop your X. If the spot is marked, the next clue unseals.
Why can't I drop my X yet?
You have to be close to the ground: the drop window opens a few hundred metres up (the green part of the height gauge). Zoom in until it turns green.
Will you tell me if I'm close?
No. In a hunt a spot is marked or it isn’t. Only the Daily Bearing scores by distance.
What does a miss cost?
A few minutes added to your time on the Board, and one of your drops for the hour.
Where do clues come from?
Each Mark has clues in the app and on our channels: videos, the Dispatch newsletter and social posts. The Trail tab lists every clue you have unsealed.
How do I switch between feet and metres?
Press the M / FT button under the zoom controls. We remember your choice.
Do I have to go anywhere?
No. Everything happens on the globe. Please don’t visit the real places: many are private property.
Hints and the Board
How does the Board rank hunters?
By time from the Drop, the same moment for everyone, plus a few minutes for each hint and each missed drop. Lower is better; ties go to the earlier find.
What does a hint do?
It narrows the search for the Mark you’re on, without giving the spot away, and adds a little time on the Board. Club members get hints every month; anyone can buy more.
Can I join a hunt late?
Yes, but your clock counts from the Drop, so the Board rewards early starters.
Accounts, the Club and billing
Do I need an account?
Not for Mark 1. Create a free account to keep your finds, appear on the Board and unseal the rest of the hunt.
What does the Club add?
The Bounty, a harder monthly hunt with a prize for the first hunter to the X; no ads; and hints every month. See the Club.
How do I cancel the Club?
Go to your account and choose Manage billing. You keep the Club until the end of the period you paid for.
How do I delete my account?
Email support@xmarksthespot.club from the address on your account and we’ll delete it and your data.
What can I play on?
Any up-to-date browser on a computer, tablet or phone. Apps for iPhone and Android are coming.
Still stuck?
Email support@xmarksthespot.club. See also fair play and how it works.