Understanding the Audio Only Challenge in Phasmophobia
Phasmophobia presents players with various weekly trials that test their ghost-hunting abilities in unique ways. The Audio Only challenge is one such trial, emphasizing the use of sound-based equipment. Completing this challenge requires keen listening and attention to auditory cues, making it a formidable task for many players.
Rules of the Audio Only Phasmophobia Challenge
The Audio Only challenge involves several specific rules that players must adhere to while attempting it. The trial takes place on the Sunny Meadows Mental Institution map, and only progress on the regular Sunny Meadows—not the Restricted version—is counted. Players are given a five-minute grace period at the start to set up without interference from early ghost hunters. With the power off permanently due to a broken fuse box, players must navigate without electricity. Additionally, no Cursed Possessions are available, and several key pieces of equipment such as Sanity Medication, Crucifixes, and EMF Readers are missing.
The equipment available is categorized into three tiers:
- Tier I: Igniter and Head Gear
- Tier II: Firelight, Motion Sensor, Photo Camera, Ghost Writing Book, DOTS Projector, and Flashlight
- Tier III: Parabolic Microphone, Sound Sensor, and Spirit Box
Completing the Audio Only Challenge
To successfully complete the Audio Only challenge, players must identify the ghost present at Sunny Meadows three times while the challenge mode is active. This trial rotates weekly, giving players a limited time to attempt it before a new challenge is introduced. All equipment for the challenge is provided for free, minimizing the risk of loss and encouraging repeated attempts.
Tips for Succeeding in the Audio Only Challenge
Team Up with Other Players
Sunny Meadows is a vast and complex map, making it challenging to complete the Audio Only trial alone. Partnering with other players—be they friends or strangers found through matchmaking—can significantly increase your chances of success. Collaborating allows players to continue the investigation even if one player perishes, as long as others remain alive.
Make an Equipment Pile
A strategic tip for efficiency involves creating an equipment pile near the front door. By gathering most or all of your equipment in one location, you save time otherwise spent walking back and forth to the truck. This method is particularly useful given the absence of protection items and power, as it allows you to complete the trial more quickly.
Opt to Run, Not Hide
During ghost hunts, prioritize running over hiding, especially on the extensive Sunny Meadows map. Running allows you to loop around and evade the ghost more effectively than attempting to hide.
Familiarize Yourself with the Map
Getting lost is easy on the expansive Sunny Meadows map. To mitigate this, players should familiarize themselves with the layout by exploring the map in a custom mode with a friendly ghost setting. This allows for safe exploration without the threat of ghost attacks.
Use Truck Cameras Wisely
Although video cameras are unavailable in this trial, players can utilize truck cameras to view eight different map locations. By monitoring these cameras, you might spot Ghost Orbs or other evidence that indicates the ghost’s location.
Keep Your Journal Updated
Maintaining an up-to-date journal is crucial, as you can still win the challenge if you correctly identify the ghost, even posthumously. Update your ghost selection based on new evidence and observations, considering the ghost’s behavior and characteristics for accurate guessing.
Persistence is Key
Given the difficulty of challenge modes, persistence is vital. Reattempt the Audio Only challenge as often as possible during its active period. Each contract is different, offering varied levels of difficulty based on the ghost’s identity. Keep trying until you succeed.
The Audio Only challenge in Phasmophobia is a test of patience, skill, and teamwork. By following these guidelines and tips, players can improve their chances of completing the trial successfully and enjoying the rewards that come with it.
