2023 eChallengeCoin

At first glance, this might look like a super miniature version of a “Simon” style game. In some sense, you would be correct in that assumption but the 2023 eChallengeCoin hides a heap of puzzles and games to keep you entertained for a long time!

This is the fourth in a series of challenge coins from Bradán Lane STUDIO which have been launched annually since 2020. The small coin comes in a neat protective case and you need to open the case and pop in the supplied coin cell to bring the coin to life. There is a wake button at the 12 o’clock position and then there are 4 large touch pads on the front surface of the coin. There are numerous LEDs and a buzzer which create an interface for the onboard games and puzzles. There are 3 interactive challenges for which all interaction is via the touch pads. There is also a demo mode that changes the coin into the smallest “Simon” game which can be played by multiple players.

You might think that’s enough functionality packed into such a tiny coin but if you connect the coin to a serial monitor via the 4-pin interface you are presented with three more story-based challenges. These challenges use both the device and text-based interaction in the serial monitor for gameplay. The story challenges are set in the world of Sarah Cladlow, a consultant from Washington DC who undertakes investigative security work!

With a heap of backstory and lots of additional online clues and content this small coin really does pack a lot of entertainment into a wonderful little package. Get one before they’re gone!