ABOVE Secrets Guide: Unlock Hidden Content and Easter Eggs

Introduction to ABOVE Secrets

ABOVE is more than just a cozy mountain resort management sim. Beneath its charming 1960s aesthetic lies a treasure trove of hidden content waiting to be discovered. Whether you are hunting for secret achievements, hidden rooms, or easter eggs referencing classic mountaineering culture, this guide will help you uncover every secret ABOVE has to offer. From the moment you start your first playthrough, keep your eyes peeled for subtle clues that hint at deeper mysteries.

Secret Locations on the Mountain

The mountain in ABOVE is filled with hidden nooks and crannies that are easy to miss if you are not paying attention. Some of these locations contain rare collectibles, while others unlock special dialogue with your guests. One of the earliest secrets you can find is the Abandoned Ski Hut, located just off the main trail to the east of your resort. To access it, you must clear a small rockslide using the upgrade path from the /en/guides/upgrades-guide/ guide.

Another notable secret is the Frozen Waterfall Cave, which only becomes accessible after you have rescued at least ten climbers. Inside, you will find a hidden journal that provides backstory on the mountain's history. Be sure to bring a lantern, as the cave is pitch black. For more tips on exploration, check the /en/guides/beginner-tips/ guide.

Easter Eggs and Pop Culture References

The developers at Above the Desk have packed ABOVE with playful nods to mountaineering films, classic literature, and even other indie games. One of the most famous easter eggs is the "Shining" Carpet, a patterned rug in the main lodge that mirrors the iconic carpet from the Overlook Hotel. To activate it, walk over the carpet three times in a row during a blizzard.

Another fun reference is the "Into the Wild" Bus, a rusted vehicle hidden deep in the forest to the north. Interacting with it triggers a unique achievement and a short cutscene. For a full list of achievements, visit the /en/guides/achievements-guide/ guide.

• Walk over the 'Shining' Carpet three times during a blizzard
• Find the 'Into the Wild' Bus in the northern forest
• Trigger the 'Summit' dialogue by reaching the peak at dawn

Unlockable Hidden Items and Cosmetics

Beyond collectibles, ABOVE offers several hidden cosmetic items that change the appearance of your resort or your character. The Golden Compass is a wearable item that increases your navigation speed by 10%. To obtain it, you must complete a series of hidden quests starting with a mysterious note found in the mail room.

The Retro Radio is another hidden item that plays period-appropriate music when placed in the main hall. It is found inside a locked chest behind the kitchen. The key is dropped by a rare NPC who only appears after you have achieved a five-star rating. Learn more about character interactions in the /en/guides/character-collection/ guide.

Hidden Achievements and How to Unlock Them

ABOVE features several hidden achievements that do not appear in the standard list. These are often tied to specific, obscure actions. For example, the "Night Owl" achievement requires you to stay awake for three consecutive in-game nights without sleeping. This can be challenging because your character's energy will deplete quickly, so stock up on coffee from the resort kitchen.

Another hidden achievement, "Mountain Whisperer," is unlocked by talking to every NPC in the game at least once during a single playthrough. This includes seasonal visitors and hidden characters. For a complete walkthrough of the story, see the /en/guides/story-campaign-guide/ guide.

Tips for Finding Every Secret

Finding every secret in ABOVE requires patience and a keen eye. Here are some pro tips to ensure you do not miss anything:

• Explore every corner: Many secrets are hidden behind trees, rocks, or buildings that look like background decoration.
• Talk to everyone: NPCs often drop hints about secret locations or items. Repeat conversations after major events.
• Experiment with upgrades: Some secrets only become accessible after certain upgrades are purchased. Refer to the /en/guides/progression-system/ guide for upgrade paths.

How many secrets are in ABOVE?
There are over 20 confirmed secrets, including hidden locations, items, achievements, and easter eggs. The exact number may increase with future updates.

Are secrets missable?
Most secrets are not permanently missable, but some are tied to specific events or seasons. You can always start a new save file to try again.

Do secrets affect the ending?
While secrets do not change the main story ending, they unlock additional epilogue content and special credits scenes. For more on endings, check the /en/guides/endings-guide/ guide.