Big Walk: What’s the story behind that number puzzle?

In the early stages of Big Walk, while you and your friends are exploring the world and tackling puzzles, you might stumble upon an intriguing sight: a structure by the beach housing an oblong prize (which we like to call an anubbin) encased in a frosted glass container. Above it hangs a sign displaying some numbers. Interesting, right?

You may have encountered a similar container before, where a companion had to press a button nearby to access the nubbin. But what do those two four-digit numbers signify? And where’s that elusive button?

If you’re scratching your head over this number puzzle, you’re not alone—we were too for a bit. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.

Since Big Walk shines brightest when you solve puzzles with friends rather than relying on guides, I’ll provide you with hints that gradually lead you to the solution without giving everything away at once.

**Hint 1:**

When you first encounter this number puzzle, likely right after finishing the tutorial puzzles, you won’t be able to crack it just yet. The best course of action is to leave it for now and return after you’ve completed five other puzzles and tackled the red tower.

**Hint 2:**

As you explore the world, keep those numbers in mind, especially their format: two four-digit numbers. You might spot something elsewhere that connects to them.

**Hint 3:**

To decode those numbers, you’ll need a specific item. In fact, there are two different items that can help you with the number puzzle.

**Hint 4:**

The numbers 4166 and 1899 represent coordinates—latitude and longitude—that indicate where the button is located on the island.

**Hint 5:**

You can use a map to locate the coordinates, or a device that shows its current coordinates on a screen, similar to a GPS. Either of these will help you solve the number puzzle.

Alright, that’s enough hints. Here’s how to solve it:

First, you’ll need to find the map, which requires placing five nubbins on the roof of the red tower. Once you do that, the map room will unlock right next to the starting hub, featuring a large map on the floor along with a portable, foldable map and compass.

With the map in hand, follow the longitude of 41 (the numbered lines on the sides) and the latitude of 18 (the numbered lines on the top and bottom). Where these lines intersect on the map is the grid square where you should search for the button, located east and south of the starter hub. The “66” in 4166 indicates a more precise location, about two-thirds down from the top of the grid, while 99 means you’re as far east as possible along the gridline.

If it helps, you can enlarge the image below by clicking the arrows in the lower-left corner.

That’s your target! You’ll find a small button cleverly hidden behind a rock. One player will need to hold down the button while another grabs the nubbin from the puzzle building when the glass container opens, so make sure to have walkie-talkies handy.

Alternatively, and in my opinion, the more enjoyable method to find the button is by using the GPS device. This item takes a bit longer to locate than the map: you’ll need to head to the green tower, which is in the same area as the button. Just outside, you’ll find a red frame holding the GPS (along with another sign featuring more numbers).

You can hold the GPS up for your friends to see the current coordinates or attach it to someone’s backpack.

With one player wearing the GPS, another can guide them on where to go. Just keep an eye on the numbers: as you traverse the island, the GPS readout will indicate whether you’re getting closer to or further from the button’s location. Happy walking!