The Trials I is an entirely visual, new armchair treasure hunt released by Natalie Nelson. The recent challenge comes after one of her other clever hunts, Echo the Owl, was solved. It’s treasure valued at over $4000 claimed! It was a pleasure to chat with her about that discovery, as well as learning more about The Trials. Who might solve its clues and claim the hidden treasure of The Trials? It could be you! Let’s learn more.
Six Questions with Natalie Nelson:
- 1Q) First, let me congratulate you on the conclusion and exciting discovery of Echo the Owl’s treasure! Did you know someone was close to solving and finding the Golden Owl, or was it a complete surprise? Please share more about the story behind the successful ending of Echo.
The solve was a complete surprise! I keep a watchful eye on the message boards as well as the email associated with the hunt to see if anyone is close. This guy and his family are local so they kept their movements quiet.
Hunt and Solution for Echo posted HERE.
- 2Q) Next, Congrats on releasing The Trials – another armchair treasure hunt! How can someone get involved in this hunt, and what is the treasure to claim in The Trials?
The trials will be released in succession once the previous trial has been complete! This one has a prize of a AAA+ black pearl! To get involved one needs only purchase a copy of the hunt from Gumroad.com! This purchase is only for the first of the three trials.
- 3Q) Can you offer any advice on how someone might get started with The Trials? Is it code heavy, logic based, or something other? How would you describe it?
As usual with my hunts there is very little in the way of a “code”. That is to say there will not be a string of numbers that a computer can solve for you.. there will be visual clues and imagination will get you the farthest in these trials.
- 4Q) You’ve created numerous hunts and puzzles to date. What do you enjoy most about the process of creating them?
I enjoy bringing families together for a common goal and how fun when that goal is treasure!! Inspiring adventure is the goal every time.
- 5Q) All things are a learning experience. Since releasing your first puzzle hunt, quite a few years ago, how would you say your creation process has changed, developed, or grown?
I would say the only thing that has really changed since my previous hunts is that I will not put the entire prize “out in the world” unless I have purchased an exact replacement prize (as has been done in this hunt) so if the hunter arrives at the successful location – to no treasure – it can be replaced! Otherwise a proxy item will be used.
- 6Q) Other than creating treasure hunts and puzzles, what else do you do in your spare time? Are you working on other projects or enjoying other hobbies?
When I’m not creating hunts I am working!! I have many personal goals to save for nowadays and that is also a big part of why I create the hunts. That little extra income on top of my 3 jobs is very helpful for getting some savings under my belt. I also enjoy hiking in Acadia National park and hanging out with my kitty cat doing various crafty things!
As always thanks for the interview!
Discussions on The Trials can be found on the hunt’s Facebook Page, as well as the MW Forum’s The Trials section. or Discord channel.