Directional Lock Alternative

At one time Masterlock produced a padlock that allowed you to set a combination as a sequence of directions, and the device was unlocked by pushing this sequence of directions on a knob. This type of lock was commonly used in escape rooms and enabled many clever puzzles. Several puzzles on this site require the entry of a sequence of directions.

Unfortunately, Masterlock has discontinued the production of these locks, and no other brand has yet to produce their own. You may still be able to find one of these locks, but as time goes by they will become more rare and expensive.

If you would like to include a puzzle to find a sequence of directions and cannot get one of these padlocks, here is an alternative. This approach sets up a web page where players can enter directions, just like they could for a directional padlock. The web page will then provide a code that players can enter into a traditional padlock. To set this up, click the link below.

Web Directional Lock

Here’s how this tool would be used. The above link is used to create a table like this.

This page is displayed on a mobile device or other computer. You can have the page preloaded on a device accessible in the room, or provide a QR code for players to load on their own device.

As players are solving the puzzle, they press the direction buttons. After entering the sequence, they press the Submit button.

When the sequence is submitted, a code is provided. The players can enter this code into a traditional numeric padlock. In the previous example, the player entered the sequence down-right-up-right-up-left and received the code 5572. If they entered the correct sequence of directions, the code will open the lock.

The above images show the default behavior to provide a random-ish but consistent code. The above link to the web directional lock provides several options to adjust the page for your needs.