In 2012, something appeared online that would go on to become one of the most legendary codebreaking challenges ever created.
A single image was posted with a simple message:
“We are looking for highly intelligent individuals.”
What followed was Cicada 3301 — a global puzzle phenomenon that combined cryptography, steganography, riddles, and real-world clues. Participants were pushed to their limits, decoding hidden messages buried in images, music files, literature, and even physical locations around the world.
It wasn’t just a puzzle. It was a test.
Those who followed the trail encountered layers upon layers of increasingly complex challenges — requiring knowledge of encryption methods, programming, philosophy, and lateral thinking. To this day, the true purpose behind Cicada 3301 remains unknown, adding to its mystique.
For many, it set the gold standard for what a true codebreaking challenge should feel like.
A New Kind of Codebreaking Experience
Since then, very few experiences have come close to capturing that same sense of intrigue, depth, and intellectual challenge.
That’s why many players have started drawing comparisons between Cicada 3301 and Ink & Clues’ new postcard puzzle series.
While very different in format, the underlying experience is familiar:
- Hidden messages waiting to be uncovered
- Layers of ciphers and codes
- The constant feeling that there is always something more beneath the surface
Predator or Prey — A Codebreaker’s Playground
Ink & Clues’ postcard puzzle series, Predator or Prey, delivers exactly what puzzle enthusiasts have been searching for:
A structured, immersive experience filled with cryptographic ciphers, pattern-based puzzles, encoded messages and multi-step decryption challenges.
Each postcard is carefully designed to challenge your ability to think, analyze, and decode — much like the early stages of Cicada 3301.
But there is one key difference. You are not left completely in the dark.
Learn to Break Codes — For Real
Unlike many cryptic challenges that abandon the player, Predator or Prey is built as a learning experience.
As you progress, you are given subtle hints, techniques, approaches and guidance on how to think like a codebreaker
This creates a powerful progression: You don’t just solve puzzles — you develop real skills in decryption and logical analysis.
By the end of the series, many players find themselves far more confident in recognizing cipher patterns, breaking encoded messages and approaching complex problems methodically.
In other words, you don’t just play the game. You become better at thinking like the people who create them.
A One-of-a-Kind Puzzle Experience
Players have described the series as:
- “Incredibly engaging”
- “A completely unique experience”
- “Unlike anything else on the market”
And that’s the key.
There is nothing quite like this.
While Cicada 3301 remains a mysterious, almost mythical challenge, Predator or Prey offers something equally compelling — but in a complete, playable format.
Are You Ready?
If you’ve ever been drawn to cryptography, hidden messages, complex puzzles and the thrill of uncovering something others miss, then this is your next challenge.
