When Michael Lewis, a Denver native, found himself stumped by a seemingly simple puzzle while dining at his local haunt, Great Scott’s Eatery, little did he know that he would soon captivate the internet’s collective curiosity. The culprit? A “Spot the Difference” challenge tucked away in the kids’ menu, featuring two images of cheerful dolphins frolicking in the waves.
A Puzzling Encounter
The premise was simple: find five differences between the two images. Michael and his family quickly identified four. However, the fifth difference remained elusive, leaving them bewildered and eager to solve the mystery.
According to a 2009 study published in the journal “Brain and Cognition,” this type of puzzle activates the right posterior parietal cortex—the region responsible for identifying differences between two similar images. A rush of dopamine follows each correct identification, making these puzzles irresistibly engaging.
The Internet’s Hive Mind Takes On the Challenge
Intrigued by their inability to spot the final difference, Michael decided to seek help from the online community. He posted the puzzle on Reddit, hoping that someone could provide the answer to this perplexing conundrum.
The response was overwhelming. Hundreds of users attempted to solve the puzzle. As theories flew back and forth, the once obscure kids’ menu puzzle became an internet sensation.
The Final Difference Revealed
It wasn’t until user u/blueeyed_honeybee chimed in that the solution finally emerged. The fifth difference lay in the subtlest of details: the blushes on the dolphins’ cheeks were different colors.
With the revelation, Michael’s family could finally put the puzzle to rest. But the experience left a lasting impression, reminding them of the power of community, collaboration, and the thrill of solving a good puzzle.
As for Great Scott’s Eatery, the humble diner found itself in the spotlight, with patrons flocking to try their hand at the now-famous “Spot the Difference” challenge. And as for Michael Lewis, he continues to enjoy his meals at his local diner, always on the lookout for another puzzling encounter.
Today, the puzzle serves as a testament to the power of collective problem-solving, a reminder that sometimes, all it takes to solve a mystery is a little help from our friends—and the internet.
Tyler Fields is your internet guru, delving into the latest trends, developments, and issues shaping the online world. With a focus on internet culture, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies, Tyler keeps readers informed about the dynamic landscape of the internet and its impact on our digital lives.
