Beginner Hot Cold OSRS Guide for Treasure Trails
Old School RuneScape (OSRS) is packed with exciting activities, and one of the most engaging for newcomers is the Beginner Hot Cold clue in Treasure Trails. This guide dives into everything you need to know about solving these clues, from understanding the mechanics to pinpointing dig spots efficiently. Whether you’re a free-to-play (F2P) player or just starting your clue scroll journey, this post will help you master Hot Cold clues with ease.
Hot Cold clues are a type of puzzle in OSRS Treasure Trails where players use a strange device to locate a treasure by digging in the right spot. The device gives feedback in the chatbox, indicating whether you’re “Hot” (close) or “Cold” (far) from the target location. This mechanic is inspired by a classic children’s game, making it intuitive yet challenging for beginners.
How to Get a Strange Device
To start a Hot Cold clue, you need a strange device. For beginner clues, visit Reldo in the Varrock Palace library. You must have an active clue scroll directing you to Reldo, but once you have the device, you can keep it in your bank for future use. No need to return it!
Understanding Hot Cold Mechanics
The strange device measures your distance from the treasure using Chebyshev distance (steps needed, ignoring obstacles). The closer you are, the “hotter” the device gets, with messages ranging from “Freezing” to “Incredibly Hot.” You’ll teleport or walk to different locations, checking the device to see if it gets warmer or colder, narrowing down the dig spot.
Step-by-Step Guide to Solving Hot Cold Clues
Solving a Hot Cold clue can feel daunting at first, but with a clear strategy, it’s straightforward. Follow these steps to locate your treasure efficiently.
Step 1: Start at a Central Location
Begin at a central spot like the Crafting Guild, which is roughly in the middle of the OSRS map. Activate the strange device to get your first temperature reading. This helps you gauge whether the treasure is nearby or far away.
Step 2: Use Teleports to Narrow Down
Teleport to key locations to check the device’s temperature. A common strategy is to use the Chronicle teleport (from the Chronicle book, purchasable for 300 coins) or an Amulet of Glory for quick access to places like Draynor Village or Al Kharid. Each teleport helps you eliminate possible dig spots.
Step 3: Pinpoint the Dig Spot
Once you’re in a “Hot” or “Very Hot” zone, move step-by-step, checking the device frequently. The treasure lies within a 9×9 square, so you may need to dig multiple times in the area to hit the exact spot. Always carry a spade for digging.
Beginner Hot Cold Clue Locations
Beginner Hot Cold clues have five possible dig locations, all accessible to F2P players. Knowing these spots can save you time. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
| Location | Description | How to Reach |
|---|---|---|
| Lumbridge Cow Field | North of Lumbridge Castle, in the farthest cow field. | Use Chronicle teleport or walk from Lumbridge. |
| Al Kharid Mine | North of the Al Kharid mine, near the fence. | Amulet of Glory to Al Kharid or walk from Lumbridge. |
| Draynor Manor | Northwest of Draynor Manor, in a mushroom patch. | Chronicle teleport or walk from Draynor Village. |
| Ice Mountain | Near the Black Knights’ base on Ice Mountain. | Teleport to Falador, then walk north. |
| Draynor Village | South of Draynor Village, near the wheat field. | Chronicle teleport or Amulet of Glory to Draynor. |
Tips for Identifying Locations
- Very Hot or Incredibly Hot at Crafting Guild? Head to Lumbridge Cow Field.
- Warm after moving east from Varrock Square? It’s likely Al Kharid Mine.
- Cold in Falador but Hot in Draynor? Check Draynor Manor or Village.
Essential Items and Preparation
Before tackling Hot Cold clues, gather these items to make the process smoother:
- Clue Scroll: Keep it in your inventory or bank.
- Spade: Essential for digging up the treasure.
- Strange Device: Obtained from Reldo.
- Teleport Items: Chronicle book, Amulet of Glory, or basic teleport runes (e.g., Varrock, Falador).
- Energy Potions: Optional for faster running between spots.
Why Preparation Matters
Without a spade or the strange device, you can’t progress. Teleport items save time, especially for F2P players with limited travel options. If you die and lose your clue scroll, it’s gone for good, so stay cautious in dangerous areas like Ice Mountain near Black Knights.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Beginner Hot Cold clues are forgiving, but mistakes can waste time. Here’s what to watch out for:
Misreading the Device
The “warmer than before” message doesn’t always mean you’re closer—it depends on Chebyshev distance. Double-check by moving in different directions to confirm the trend.
Digging in the Wrong Spot
The 9×9 dig area can be tricky. If you’re “Incredibly Hot” but don’t find the treasure, try adjacent tiles systematically.
Inefficient Teleports
Random teleports can confuse you. Stick to a pattern, like starting at Crafting Guild, then hitting Al Kharid, Falador, and Draynor, to cover all possibilities logically.
Pro Tip: Use the OSRS Wiki’s Hot Cold location map for visual reference if you’re stuck. It’s a lifesaver for beginners!
Solving Beginner Hot Cold clues in OSRS is a rewarding way to explore the game world while earning loot like reward caskets. With only five possible locations, they’re perfect for F2P players looking to dip their toes into Treasure Trails. By starting at a central point, using smart teleports, and understanding the strange device’s feedback, you’ll be digging up treasures in no time. Grab your spade, talk to Reldo, and start your adventure today!