Overview
Quick Summary: Predict crypto price movements and compete for high scores through strategic grid-based gameplay Difficulty: Beginner Time to Read: 3 minutes
What is GRIDLOCK?
GRIDLOCK is a crypto market prediction game that transforms market analysis into an engaging strategic experience. You don't need to be a crypto expert—just predict price movements and watch your score multiply through pattern completion.
The Core Concept
Choose between two game modes:
- Market Grid: Predict which coins will perform best within a category
- Coin Grid: Predict UP or DOWN movements for individual price candles
Your predictions form a grid. Complete geometric patterns (rows, columns, diagonals, squares) to earn massive bonus points.
What Makes GRIDLOCK Unique?
Strategic Depth
- Pattern Optimization: Position predictions to complete multiple patterns simultaneously
- Power-Up Placement: Use ATTACK, GUARD, and RESTORE abilities strategically
- Risk-Reward Balance: Choose time ranges that match your prediction confidence
Skill-Based Gameplay
- Market Knowledge: Understanding crypto volatility improves accuracy
- Spatial Strategy: Visualizing pattern opportunities maximizes scores
- Resource Management: Strategic power-up deployment can double your points
Accessible Entry
- No Wallet Required: Play immediately without crypto setup
- Learn by Playing: Game mechanics teach market prediction naturally
- Progressive Difficulty: Start simple, scale to complex strategies
Two Ways to Play
Market Grid Mode (4×3 Grid)
What: Predict relative performance among 12 coins from a category How: Select coins and arrange them on the grid—no explicit predictions needed Strategy: Position high-performers in pattern formations
Categories Available:
- L1 Chains: Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and other base layer protocols
- DeFi: Uniswap, Aave, Curve, and decentralized finance tokens
- Memes: Dogecoin, Pepe, Shiba Inu, and meme-driven cryptocurrencies
Scoring Example:
- Full Row (4 correct): 4,000 points
- Full Column (3 correct): 3,000 points
- Power-up success: +1,000 points
Coin Grid Mode (Variable Grid Sizes)
What: Predict directional movements (UP/DOWN) for price candles How: Choose a coin, select time range, make predictions for each candle Strategy: Identify trends and form high-value patterns
Time Range Options:
| Time Range | Grid Size | Candles | Base Points | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24H | 6×4 (24) | 24 × 1-hour | +25 each | Easier |
| 4H | 4×4 (16) | 16 × 15-min | +50 each | Medium |
| 1H | 4×3 (12) | 12 × 5-min | +75 each | Harder |
Scoring Example (4H Mode):
- Each correct prediction: +50 points
- Full Row (4): 5,000 points
- Diagonal (4): 8,000 points
- Square (2×2): 3,000 points
Core Mechanics
Patterns: Your Path to High Scores
Patterns are geometric formations on your grid that award massive bonus points:
Available Patterns (varies by grid size):
- Rows: Horizontal lines of correct predictions
- Columns: Vertical lines of correct predictions
- Diagonals: Corner-to-corner lines (4×4 grids only)
- Squares: 2×2 blocks of correct predictions
- Four Corners: All four corner cells (4×4 grids only)
Key Insight: A single correct prediction in the right position can complete multiple patterns simultaneously, multiplying your score.
Power-Ups: Strategic Amplifiers
Place up to 3 power-ups on your grid for bonus points:
| Power-Up | Effect | When It Succeeds | Bonus |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATTACK 🗡️ | Offensive capability | Placed on lowest volatility position | +1,000 pts |
| GUARD 🛡️ | Defensive protection | Placed on highest volatility position | +1,000 pts |
| RESTORE 🔄 | Recovery mechanism | Converts incorrect to correct prediction | +1,000 pts |
Pro Tip: Place power-ups on cells that are part of multiple patterns to maximize their impact.
Scoring System
Your final score combines three components:
- Base Points: Each correct prediction (Coin Grid only)
- Pattern Bonuses: Geometric formations completed
- Power-Up Bonuses: Strategic ability success
Example Score Breakdown (4H Coin Grid):
Base Points: 12 correct × 50 = 600 points
Full Row: 5,000 points
Full Column: 5,000 points
Diagonal (3): 1,500 points
ATTACK Success: 1,000 points
─────────────────────────────────────────────
TOTAL SCORE: 13,100 points
Getting Started
Ready to play? Follow this learning path:
For Complete Beginners
- How to Play - Step-by-step walkthrough
- Market Grid Mode - Start here (easier to learn)
- Glossary - Reference for game terms
For Strategy Optimization
- Coin Grid Mode - Advanced directional predictions
- Power-Ups Guide - Strategic deployment tactics
- Pattern Reference - Complete pattern catalog
- Scoring Details - Comprehensive point calculations
Key Success Principles
Focus on Patterns, Not Just Accuracy
A 60% accuracy rate with 3 completed patterns scores higher than 80% accuracy with no patterns.
Strategic Power-Up Placement
Power-ups on pattern intersections amplify their value—a successful power-up in multiple patterns can add 3,000-5,000 points indirectly.
Time Range Selection Matters
- Shorter time frames (1H) = higher volatility = harder predictions = higher points
- Longer time frames (24H) = more stable trends = easier predictions = more pattern opportunities
Market Timing
Play during active trading hours (market opens, major news) for more predictable movements.
Next Steps
Choose your starting point:
- New Players: How to Play Guide
- Visual Learners: Game Modes Overview
- Strategy Seekers: Pattern Strategy Guide
Last Updated: 2025-10-28 Game Version: MVP v1.0