Xmas Hunting at Whitemeadows

It's that time again, so pull on your warmest jumper and get grid jumping! Ange Menges and Nani Ferguson are about to unveil their latest Seasonal Hunt region!

It's on OSGrid and it's called Whitemeadows, and the big opening party is on December 20 at about 12 noon SLT.

The look and feel of the region is very different from the last Menges/Ferguson Hunt "Ankhtyfy" in October, which was all about aliens and monsters. This time, it's a classic winter wonderland with more of a real world approach, a pronounceable name, and cozy corners in which to sit and drink in the beauty of the sim. And, why not, a snowmobile to speed up your race around the region, following the clues.

This treat has a whopping 40 clues to solve, as usual with help from the handy HUD that combines a photo with a clue. Last time, the game was devilishly difficult, and few finished it. This time, not only there are a lot more rewards, but it's also slightly easier to navigate the build. So drink your egg nog and get your reading glasses, this is one challenge you'll be glad you took up. 

Here's the statue at the start, her light points you in the right direction, but don't rush off quite yet. Beneath the 'How this Works' sign, you will find a box with the HUD in it. Without that, you can't play.

Wear the HUD, look for the place in the photo, go there, and a sensor will pick up your presence and give you the... presents... or the next bit of the puzzle. Here's an example of an early stage in the game just to give you an idea. Need to find the photographer and his friend...

Yes, here's the photographer, and lo and behold as soon as I get close to him, the image changes, and it's on to the next destination (in this case only a few meters away!)

 There is all kinds of traditional festive fare here, laid out across the land by the inimitable Nani Ferguson, and scripted/ sounded up by Ange Menges. The game is a mental switchback as you retrace your steps, trying to get your bearings and remember... just where did I see that Cinderella's crystal carriage...

 ... or that castle in a snow globe?
The HUD is a great tool to get you moving around the sim, and you can edit the size, depending on whether you're focussed on the detail in the photo, or need to look where you're going. Another nice part of the Menges/Ferguson builds is that they leave it up to you to either walk the sim or to cam and tp. 

Ange Menges at the gothic castle, under glass

It's such a subjective question, whether you find camming or walking more comfortable. Of course, if you walk or ride around the sim, you get the bonus of hearing all the sounds coming and going in a more immersive wa, but these builders are so good, they leave that kind of choice up to you.

Plenty of gingerbread, candy canes, christmas trees, skating and fairy lights, plenty of hot chocolate in super cute penguin mugs (don't be afraid to click on things, apart from the prizes there are quite a few items set to Copy)

 there is also a fairly strong Alice theme here recalling the glorious CrazyEaster hunt from 2015 which has to be one of the top builds I've ever been to. This time, there's a chance to sit among the teacups and contemplate the next three dozen clues to come...

Here is the HG Address, though the build is not officially open yet - put 20 Dec in your calendar and join us for the big party if you can, or tp over any day after that for your own adventure!
HG Address hg.osgrid.org:80/Whitemeadows