A short while after the completion of the Fourth Trial of Aql, you’ll be asked to locate the Fifth Trial of Aql.
This one is a little different as there’s no combat. However, the environment is deadly and sandworms are the main threat. This is the game's first real introduction to how the sandworm works, with the final reward for the trial giving us a major boost when it comes to avoiding it in future.
As with the previous trials, you won’t get a waypoint. Instead, open your Journey tab, click on The Fifth Trial of Aql, and hit "View Trial Location" to bring up a painted mural and short clue:
“Where earth has sundered…across the bridges of stone… where the great stones lean… always para-east.”
Fifth Trial of Aql Location
We’re heading to the eastern side Hagga Rift for the Fifth Trial of Aql. If you’ve explored there already, you’ll know the terrain is unstable and full of deep pits.
Check the map above, and head to the exact spot. To get to here, we advise crossing the bridges on the west side of the area.
Now, locate the large rock with the purple eye. In the screenshot below, we were standing on the spot where you can see the eye above. Drop into the pit shown on the second screenshot, and you’ll land in a cavern. This is the entrance to The Hidden Test, the Fifth Trial of Aql.
Fifth Trial of Aql Puzzle Guide
As with earlier trials, start by interacting with the altar. You’ll inhale spice, and the trial begins. Your vision changes slightly, and new paths open.
The challenge here is platforming, yes, a third-person game using a platforming mechanic. You’ll have to cross quicksand and crumbling ground using only the stone platforms provided. Fall into the sand, and you’ll be reset. However, it is worth it once for the cutscene.
Work your way across several parkour sections. If you’re struggling, stop and let your stamina recharge. Rushing leads to mistakes.
Once you reach the end of the platforming route, you’ll find a Thumper near a ruined harvester. Pick it up and place it in the marked location.
Immediately after placing the Thumper, start running. A cutscene will trigger. When it ends, sprint toward the nearby exit path. The worm will crash through the ruins, clearing your way. If you hesitate, it may kill you.
Ending the trial will also reveal how Thumpers and Sandworms interact, which will matter more later in the game. You will also learn how to craft a Thumper from the fabricator for the following cost:
- Steel Ingot x 5
- EMF Generator x 4
- Silicone Block x 3
- Water x 35
Pro tip: There’s no loot chest at the end of this trial, but there is a hidden alcove near the start with a small stash. Look for a ledge just before the first big jump, climb up instead of forward, and you’ll find a supply crate.
Moving On To The Sixth Trial
Once you've completed the Fifth Trial, you'll notice that the location of the Sixth Trial is also a mystery. Follow our Sixth Trial of Aql Location guide to find it with ease.
