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Non Trivial Pursuit

Introduction

A while ago I accidentally found a feature on Google Maps (specifically StreetView) that opened up a whole new way of procrastinating (!) and led to the creation of this game. StreetView, as most will know, allows you to zoom into a 3D view of the world map. However, what few realise is that there are many public spaces where pedestrian StreetView mappers have also been! If you’ve not seen this, it’s really very cool and, it’s amazing to be able to visit many places that are not easily accessible, and some that we likely never will. It essentially makes these spaces like real-life old-school point and click adventure games. Capitalising on this, we’re proud to bring you a quest to tickle the mental faculties and keep you occupied during these long dark evenings…. It’s the Knowledge Makers - ‘A non-trivial pursuit’ !

Playing the game

This game is designed for playing in a browser on a laptop or desktop - sorry kids. The StreetMap functionality described below and used in the game is only applicable to the browser based version of Google Maps and not mobile or the app as the functionality is different. There will be an initial puzzle / riddle for each stage which will help you identify a location. Visit this location on Google Maps to find the answer to a question or a code to unlock the next stage. Enter a correct answer in each answer box to unlock the next stage. There are six puzzle pieces to collect in total, with the categories lovingly plagiarised from the original Trivial Pursuit game.

Navigating

Sometimes you will just need to use Google Maps (https://maps.google.com) and the normal StreetView. Sometimes, you will need to explore inside buildings to find the answer you need. When playing, put Google maps in satellite view mode. To explore in StreetView Mode, grab the yellow person icon (bottom right) and a map of blue lines will appear superimposed on the main map. These are the trails you can follow both outside – and inside buildings which have been mapped. Drop the person over one of these trails and the view will suddenly change. If you do this whilst hovering over the inside of a mapped building the view will switch to 3D and you’ll be able to navigate around inside. Additionally, some places (historical museums / monuments) may *not* show the blue tracks, but by dropping the StreetView person on the placeholder icon:

An image of a Google Map magic pin


You can still have a look around inside.

Click here for a quick demo around the Royal Opera House:

Notes

Don’t click on the images in Google Maps (displayed top left) – these are static images and are not 3D enabled.

For best accuracy when dropping the person on to the map, make sure you’re zoomed in to a fairly close level.

If you seem to be stuck in a location when you go into the 3D view (particularly inside a building) make sure you can see the arrow / cross icons in front of you.

An image of the arrow you see in Google Maps

If you cannot see these, you will not be able to move around and the image will just zoom in and out when you click. Exit the 3D view and try dropping the yellow person in a slightly different location and it usually resets and will work.

Tips

Read everything. Then read it again. Everything you need to know is contained within each puzzle.

If you’re completely stuck.. Don’t give up! Send us an email letting us know where you’re flummoxed and we’ll send you a helpful hint.. Email us here: knowledgemakers@googlegroups.com