The dig meter
Equip your Shovel, LMB-click a glow, then click rapidly to fill the dig meter. The Shovel moves across a small bar; fill speed scales with Shovel Power + the item's rarity and value.
Rare glows need Power
If your shovel is below the required gear level for a glow, the dig will fail or stall. The game will tell you 'You need a stronger shovel.' This is the only signal to upgrade.
Even out-of-range items can drop
Small items can drop even if the glow color suggests a higher tier. Click fast, watch the shovel bar advance — don't give up too early.
Chain digs by rarity
Always dig the highest rarity your current Shovel can handle first. Cap a session at 20-25 items so tourists stay happy and drop-off doesn't kick in.
Stack codes during chains
Pop UPDATE1 or SECRET10 during a chain. The boost multiplies with Detector Luck and island Luck (Sphinx Sands 4x).
Video References
