Augmented Reality Game (ARG)

Uncover the secret Augmented Reality Game (ARG) images hidden within Portal 2's audio files. Learn how to find them in Chapter 2 and Chapter 3.

Portal 2 has some really cool hidden secrets that go beyond just gameplay! There are actually two sets of images cleverly tucked away inside specific audio files. It's like a little ARG (Augmented Reality Game) put there by Valve for us to find. Let's dive into how you can uncover these hidden gems.

The First Transmission Image: Chapter 2, Chamber 6

First up, you'll want to head to Chapter 2, Chamber 6. Keep an eye out for a radio lying around in the junk. Grab that radio and make your way to the Ratman's room. Doing this is actually how you get the ‘Final Transmission’ Achievement/Trophy. But here's the really neat part: if you record the loud audio noise that plays during the transmission and then use some special computer software, like MMSSTV, you can turn that sound file into an image! Valve designed the sound so that when it's converted, it displays a specific picture. Pretty wild, right?

The Marketing Strategy Images: Chapter 3, Final Chamber

The secrets don't stop there! For the second set of images, you'll need to make your way to the very last chamber of Chapter 3. Here's a crucial tip: you need to have the developer commentary option turned ON. You can only access this after you've completed the main game, so keep that in mind. Instead of just finishing the chamber normally, you'll want to use a light bridge. Use it to get to a hidden room located in the upper left-hand corner of the chamber, directly opposite the security camera. Once you're in this secret lair, look for a commentary note. Activate it, and it will play three distinct modem-like sounds. Each of these sounds actually corresponds to a different image, and these images reveal some of the marketing strategies Valve used. It’s a fascinating peek behind the curtain!