A little help, then outside.
How do we start a game?
One person hosts, chooses a safe play area and rules, then shares the private code. Friends choose usernames and join. Pick roles and get ready; the host starts when the group is ready. At least three players are needed.
Do I need an account or subscription?
No email or password is required. Choose a unique username; Scatter creates a device profile to protect your data. There is no player subscription. Keep app/site data to keep that profile.
Can Android and iPhone players join together?
Yes. Android and the iPhone web app use the same backend, rooms, codes and game rules.
Why does the map need location permission?
Your host can use device location to choose a play-zone center. During a round, you separately enable location sharing with your team. Deny permission if you prefer manual setup; live location-based play requires permission.
What if my location is wrong or inaccurate?
Move into open space and choose Use My Current Location again. Check your phone/browser location settings. The app reports accuracy where available. If permission is denied or acquisition fails, the host can search or manually choose and confirm a safe area; Scatter must not treat a guessed city as precise GPS.
Can I lock my iPhone while playing?
Browser location updates may stop when the screen locks, Scatter is backgrounded or iOS suspends it. Keep the game open for live updates. Return to Scatter after interruptions and check its tracking status; stale locations are not live positions.
Who sees my location?
Your team sees permitted live locations. Hunters receive runner snapshots according to the host's ping rules, plus configured zone-rule disclosures. Spectator visibility follows the selected delay. Your full personal trail is private to your profile.
What happens if the connection drops?
Scatter shows a disconnected or stale state. Actions need the server to accept them, and the game reconnects when service returns. Check your last successful location update before continuing.
How do tags work?
Players confirm tags through the game controls. The selected rules can require both players to confirm or turn tagged runners into hunters. Agree on physical tagging boundaries before starting; never rely on GPS alone to prove contact.
How do I fix an old cached version?
Use the update notice after leaving your round. If needed, close and reopen Scatter while online. Clearing site data is a last resort because it also removes your device profile.
Can I recover a profile after deleting app data?
There is no recovery service for device profiles. Choose a new available username if you lose that credential. Install the iPhone Home Screen app before creating the profile you plan to keep.