In the world ofGrounded, hidden treasures and secret areas add an extra layer of excitement to survival gameplay. One of the more elusive items players often search for is the Mossy Key, a special quest item needed to unlock a Sunken Treasure Chest in the Pond biome. While the rewards inside are worth the effort, getting the Mossy Key isn’t exactly straightforward. Players must navigate underwater caves, avoid hostile creatures, and ensure they have the proper gear. This guide will walk you through how to get the Mossy Key in Grounded step by step, so you can secure the treasure it unlocks.
What Is the Mossy Key?
The Mossy Key is a quest-related item in Grounded that players use to open a locked treasure chest located deep in the Pond biome. The chest contains valuable resources, including the Sunken Outpost BURG.L Chip, which can unlock advanced upgrades and crafting options at BURG.L’s Science Shop. As such, finding the Mossy Key is not just about collecting loot it’s a gateway to game progression.
Required Gear Before Searching
Before diving into the pond in search of the Mossy Key, it’s important to prepare properly. The underwater cave system can be dangerous and disorienting, so you’ll need a few items to survive and navigate efficiently.
Recommended Items
- Bubble Helmet Extends underwater breathing time significantly.
- Fin Flops Increases swim speed, helping with navigation.
- Slime Lantern or Torch+ Provides much-needed light in dark underwater areas.
- Diving Knife Useful for defending yourself or breaking through some obstacles.
- Liquid Gills (optional) Consumable that boosts oxygen levels temporarily.
With this gear equipped, you’ll have a much easier time locating and reaching the Mossy Key’s hiding place.
Where to Start: Heading to the Pond Lab Area
To begin your search for the Mossy Key in Grounded, head to the pond in the Koi Pond biome, located toward the western part of the map. Your goal is to reach the area near the Pond Lab and its surrounding underwater caves.
Swim down into the depths near the large T-Rex toy at the bottom of the pond. This is a landmark that indicates you are in the right area. From there, look for the underwater passage that leads toward the Pond Lab entrance. You do not need to enter the lab itself to find the Mossy Key, but it helps to familiarize yourself with the surroundings.
Locating the Mossy Key Underwater
The Mossy Key is hidden deep in a submerged tunnel system located west of the Pond Lab, near the Sunken T-Rex landmark. This specific tunnel is known for being dark, narrow, and somewhat tricky to navigate, especially for first-time explorers. The key is not visible from outside the tunnel you’ll need to swim all the way inside to discover it.
Step-by-Step Directions
- From the T-Rex statue, head slightly west and look for a smaller tunnel near the bottom floor of the pond.
- Enter the tunnel with your Slime Lantern equipped. The entrance is surrounded by plant roots and algae.
- Swim deeper inside until you reach a cavern filled with mossy textures and some pond weeds.
- Look around near the bottom of the mossy area. The Mossy Key should be resting on the ground, slightly hidden by the plants.
- Pick up the Mossy Key. It will be automatically added to your inventory and does not consume a slot.
Be aware that you may need to make a quick exit for oxygen once you collect the key. Keeping an eye on your breath meter is crucial during this exploration.
What to Do After Getting the Mossy Key
Now that you’ve obtained the Mossy Key, your next task is to locate the Sunken Treasure Chest it unlocks. This chest is also located in the Pond biome and requires another short dive.
Finding the Sunken Chest
- Swim back toward the center of the pond, near the large dome of the Pond Lab.
- Below the dome area, on the pond floor, look for a buried treasure chest surrounded by rocks and algae.
- Use the Mossy Key to unlock the chest.
- Inside, you will find Raw Science and the Sunken Outpost BURG.L Chip, among other rewards.
This chip can be brought to BURG.L in the Oak Tree Lab, where it will unlock new science upgrades such as new crafting recipes and building enhancements. Collecting BURG.L Chips is essential for advancing your capabilities in the game.
Tips for a Safe and Efficient Run
Successfully retrieving the Mossy Key requires preparation and awareness. Here are some tips to make the process smoother:
- Craft your diving gear ahead of time.Gathering materials like eelgrass, lily pad wax, and diving bell spider chunks can be time-consuming, so make sure you’re ready before you dive.
- Practice navigating the pond.Learn the layout of the T-Rex, Pond Lab, and nearby caves before attempting a deep dive.
- Carry backup light sources.Torches can burn out quickly. Having multiple options will prevent you from getting lost in darkness.
- Use Liquid Gills sparingly.While helpful, it’s better to rely on equipment like the Bubble Helmet for consistent oxygen.
- Mark locations with trail markers.Use trail markers near landmarks to avoid confusion if you plan to return later.
Following these tips ensures a safe and smooth journey to claim the Mossy Key and the treasures it guards.
Why the Mossy Key Matters
Aside from unlocking one of the game’s hidden rewards, the Mossy Key in Grounded represents a key moment in your progress through the Pond Lab area. Many players overlook this item or struggle to find it due to the confusing underwater layout. However, taking the time to track down this hidden key pays off with new crafting possibilities and an extra stash of Raw Science. It also provides access to one of the most atmospheric and immersive experiences in Grounded exploring its underwater world fully geared and with purpose.
Finding the Mossy Key in Grounded may seem intimidating at first, but with the right preparation and gear, it becomes a rewarding adventure. From navigating dark underwater tunnels to unlocking valuable rewards hidden beneath the pond, the journey adds depth to the survival experience. Whether you’re looking to complete all BURG.L Chips, maximize your science upgrades, or simply uncover all the game’s secrets, obtaining the Mossy Key is a must. Equip your gear, dive in, and claim your treasure the pond awaits.