Dropped in an unknown corner of the world with only a video to guide you? Welcome to SightGuesser! While the thrill is in the mystery, a few keen observation skills can turn a wild guess into a precise pinpoint. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned explorer, these five tips will help you decipher the clues hidden in every scene.

1. Decode the Language on Signs and Shops

The most obvious clues are often written down. Pay close attention to street signs, billboards, and restaurant names. Even if you don’t understand the language, the script itself is a massive hint. Is it Cyrillic (like in Russia or Bulgaria), a logographic system (like Chinese or Japanese), or the Latin alphabet? Identifying the language can instantly narrow your search to a specific country or region. Don’t forget to look for unique characters, like the ñ in Spanish or the å in Scandinavian languages.

2. Analyze License Plates and Road Rules

Vehicles are treasure troves of information. License plates are a fantastic clue. Many countries have distinct color schemes, formats, or symbols. For example, the blue strip on the left of European Union plates is unmistakable. Also, observe the flow of traffic. Are cars driving on the left or the right? Driving on the left significantly narrows your options to places like the UK, Australia, India, Japan, and parts of Southern Africa.

3. Listen for Audio Clues

SightGuesser isn’t just about what you see; it’s also about what you hear. Turn up your volume and listen carefully to the video’s audio. Can you identify the language being spoken, even just a few words? Do you hear a specific accent? Ambient sounds are just as important. The siren of an emergency vehicle, the type of music playing, or even the chirping of local birds can provide subtle but powerful hints about your location.

4. Examine the Natural Environment

The landscape itself tells a story. Look at the flora and fauna. Are you surrounded by palm trees and tropical plants, or by pine forests and snowy mountains? The color of the soil, the type of trees, and the presence of specific animals can point you toward a particular climate and continent. Even the position of the sun can give you a rough idea of whether you’re in the northern or southern hemisphere.

5. Study the Architecture and Infrastructure

Buildings and infrastructure offer a wealth of information. Notice the style of the houses. Are they colorful colonial buildings, modern glass skyscrapers, or traditional wooden homes? Pay attention to details like roof styles, window shapes, and building materials. Also, look at infrastructure like utility poles, road markings, and bollards, as their designs are often unique to a specific country.

With these tips in your arsenal, you’re ready to tackle your next challenge. Happy guessing!