Skip to content

Great Hills Puzzle Series No. 2: Mastermind Mystery Cache

Hidden : 9/11/2010
Difficulty:
2.5 out of 5
Terrain:
2 out of 5

Size: Size:   small (small)

Join now to view geocache location details. It's free!

Watch

How Geocaching Works

Please note Use of geocaching.com services is subject to the terms and conditions in our disclaimer.

Geocache Description:

NOTE: The cache IS NOT located at the above coordinates!

This cache is part of a series of five puzzle caches, all hidden in the Great Hills area. When you solve and find each of these caches, you will be given two clues, which will be needed to solve a sixth bonus puzzle cache.


As you move through the series, the puzzles get more difficult, at least in theory, although that may vary based on experience and aptitude with certain puzzle types. Also, the terrain in which they are hidden tends to increase in difficulty.

1) The objective of Mastermind is to guess the position of four colors placed in a sequence. Any combination of colors, including using two or more of the same color can be used. In this game, there are six possible colors.
2) A guess is made in the 1st row of holes attempting to duplicate the exact colors and positions of the secret code.
3) Black and white dots are placed to the right of the colors that indicate the accuracy of the guess.

  • A black dot indicates a correct color and in the right position.
  • A white dot indicates a correct color, but not in the right position.
  • No dots indicate a color is not used in the code.
4) The dots are not placed in any particular order. One dot corresponds to one color. A black dot takes precedence over a white one.
5) After the first guess and responses are complete, a second guess is made based on the information given after the first guess. Black and white dots again indicate the accuracy of the guess.
6) The process continues until all four colors are and positions are guessed correctly.

In the following puzzles, four guesses and responses have been made. It is now possible to determine the solution to each puzzle based on the existing information. Determine the values below based on the four previous guesses and the correct final answer.

Final Coordinates: N 30° 2A.BCD W 097° 4E.FGH

A = The number of columns that contain exactly 3 different colors
B = The total number of oranges plus the number of greens minus the number of purples
C = The number of different colors in the final answer
D = The number of reds minus the number of blues

E = The number of blues
F = The number of reds minus the number of purples
G = The number of yellows plus the number of oranges
H = The number greens minus the number of different colors in the final answer

When you find this cache, make sure that you record the two clues that are attached to the log at each cache. Without all of these clues, you will not be able to solve the final bonus puzzle.


You can validate your puzzle solution with certitude.

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Pnpur pbagnvare: oynpx-gncrq cynfgvp wne

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)