About Contour

Contour is a free daily map-reading game. Each day there are new islands to explore: you look around, read the contour map, and try to work out exactly where you’re standing.

Why we made it

Reading a map, and especially reading contour lines, is one of the most useful outdoor skills there is, and one of the hardest to practise without being out on a hill. Contour turns that practice into a short daily puzzle. Every round asks the same question a navigator asks for real: what does the land around me look like, and where does that pattern appear on the map?

It’s designed to be quick (three islands, a few minutes) but deep enough to keep improving at. Easy mode helps with a compass and landmarks; Hard leaves you with nothing but the shape of the land.

How it works

Every island is generated from scratch, so there are endless new ones, and the daily islands are the same for everyone, so you can compare scores. The maps follow the style of Ordnance Survey’s 1:25 000 Explorer maps, with 10 metre contours, 1 kilometre grid squares and the same landmark symbols, so the skills carry straight over to real walking maps.

You can also customise your explorer, unlock items by earning achievements, and keep a daily streak going.

Who’s behind it

Contour is made by Lee Besley in the UK. Follow along and share your scores on Instagram at @con_tour.game.

Get in touch

Ideas, bugs or just a great score to share? Send a message on Instagram.