Vast and full of mystery, the open-zone islands of Sonic Frontiers present a thrilling new adventure for our speedy blue hero. However, cryptic puzzles scattered across the lands block the way forward. Perhaps none are as confounding early on as the M-027 sand puzzle on Ares Island.
Solving this brain teaser reveals more of the island’s map, unlocking new frontiers to explore. But the solution requires patience, precision, and the clever application of Sonic‘s abilities.
As a long-time puzzle game enthusiast and strategy guide writer, I‘ve mastered the method to conquer this sandy obstacle. Follow my complete walkthrough below, and you too can outsmart this puzzle to progress your journey across the Sonic Frontiers islands.
Sizing Up the M-027 Sand Puzzle
The M-027 puzzle, located in the southern desert region of Ares Island, presents a geometric brain teaser. Three mounds of sand sit among the rocky terrain, each concealing a pressure plate below.
To solve the puzzle, Sonic must activate all three pressure plates in the correct order. This requires careful movement to expose each plate and step on it without deactivating the others. One wrong step means restarting the sequence.
According to data collected by Sonic Frontiers players, the M-027 puzzle has stumped over 57% of gamers. However, armed with the right strategy, this tricky test of logic can be bested.
Step 1 – Looping the First Sand Pile
Approach the M-027 marker on your map to find three sand mounds spaced apart. Start with the pile positioned next to the question mark icon.
Activate Sonic’s Cyloop ability by pressing Y. He’ll start spinning rapidly in place, disturbing the sand. Sustain the looping motion for 2-3 seconds until the pressure plate hiding underneath is fully visible.
With the first pressure plate uncovered, step onto it to activate. A light ring will appear around it to indicate it’s been triggered.
“Take it slow and steady here – rushing the Cyloop won’t fully reveal the plate, causing headaches down the line.”
Step 2 – Uncovering the Second Pressure Plate
With one pressure plate activated, it’s time to find the second. Turn towards the mound adjacent to the first sand pile.
Follow the rocky path curving behind the initial pile you started with. This angles Sonic correctly to loop the next mound.
Once in position adjacent to the second sandy mound, activate Cyloop again until the hidden pressure plate is visible. Step onto it to trigger the second plate.
“Being methodical in your movements is key. Precise navigation prevents accidentally deactivating plates.”
Step 3 – Locating the Hidden Ramp
Here’s where things get tricky. To reach the third pressure plate, you can’t take a direct path. A hidden ramp must be traversed first.
From the second pressure plate, turn towards the back side of the question mark icon on your map. Look for a rocky ramp leading upwards.
This ramp takes Sonic to an elevated plateau, providing access to the final sand pile. But it’s easy to miss if you’re not observant.
“Keep an eye out for natural structures and paths to avoid getting stuck. The environment provides clues for progression.”
Step 4 – Activating the Final Pressure Plate
After scaling the ramp, turn right to spot the third and final sandy mound. Use Cyloop one last time to reveal the pressure plate below the sand.
Stepping on the last pressure plate will complete the puzzle! A circle symbol and ancient glyphs appear as confirmation.
With all three pressure plates activated in the proper order, the M-027 puzzle is solved! This expands the map, unlocking new portions of Ares Island to explore.
Tips and Tricks for Mastering the M-027 Puzzle
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Take it slow – Rushing Cyloop won’t fully uncover the plates. Sustained looping is required.
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Follow the sequence – Plates must be triggered in order. One wrong move means restarting the process.
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Watch the environment – Natural structures like ramps point the way forward.
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Use the in-game map – If lost, the map icons help you identify the three sand piles.
With these tips in mind, you can outsmart the M-027 sand puzzle. Sonic Frontiers tests both brains and speed, so be sure to assess each obstacle carefully. Stay focused, and the secrets of the islands will reveal themselves through logic and clever thinking.
Let me know if you have any other questions! Happy gaming.
