Directive 8020: Locating the Probe Serial Number - Complete Guide

Overview of the Puzzle

In the tension-filled world of Directive 8020, players often find themselves stumped by a critical code-entry puzzle during Episode 7. After making the weighty decision to send a distress signal or a warning to Earth, you must input the probe’s serial number to proceed. This four-digit code, 2540, is not handed to you on a silver platter; instead, it is cleverly hidden across three separate screens around the probe. While the puzzle itself is straightforward, locating every digit requires careful exploration and attention to detail. This guide will walk you through each step so you can unlock the probe and continue your mission.

Directive 8020: Locating the Probe Serial Number - Complete Guide — Source: www.pcgamer.com

Step 1: Examine the First Screen

Begin by facing the probe directly. The first serial-number screen is conveniently placed right next to the input panel where you need to type the code. Due to the violent storm on Tau Ceti f, the probe’s systems have been corrupted, leaving only the last two digits visible on this screen: 40. Jot down these numbers as the final part of the sequence.

Step 2: Check the Back of the Probe

Now move around to the rear of the probe. This is also the spot where you’ll find the replacement chip you need to swap out the overloaded one. Look carefully at a small display near the chip slot. Here you’ll see a second screen that reveals only the first digit of the serial number: 2. This confirms the sequence begins with 2, but leaves the second and third digits a mystery.

Step 3: Find the Hidden Screen

The missing digits may seem frustrating, but the answer is tucked away in plain sight. Scan the area to the right of the probe, where a cluster of rocks sits against the terrain. Move toward those rocks and look behind them; you’ll discover a third screen, partially obscured, that displays the number 5. This is the second digit of the code. Now you have all pieces: the sequence is 2 (from the back), then 5 (from the hidden screen), followed by 40 (from the front screen), giving you the complete serial number: 2540.

Step 4: Replace the Chip and Enter the Code

Before you can input the serial number, you must first replace the overloaded chip with the spare unit you found at the back of the probe. Once the chip is swapped, return to the input panel and carefully type 2540. This will allow you to send either a distress signal to summon rescue or a warning to Earth—a decision that significantly impacts the story.

Tips for Success

Memorize the order: It’s easy to mix up which digit belongs where, so take a moment to note the sequence as you find each number.
Explore thoroughly: The hidden screen behind the rocks is easy to miss if you rush. Always check environmental details in Directive 8020.
No immediate danger: Unlike other sequences in the game, this puzzle does not involve a pursuing alien. Use the calm to carefully input the code without pressure.

Conclusion

Finding the probe’s serial number in Directive 8020 is a simple yet rewarding exploration task. By locating the three screens and piecing together 2, 5, and 40, you can unlock the probe and advance the narrative. Whether you choose to warn Earth or call for rescue, your journey continues. For more walkthroughs and puzzle solutions, stay tuned to our guides.