The landscape of Level 281.

Level 281 is a wheat-field stretching over an area of 200 square kilometers, or 77 square miles, with hills occasionally arising to a maximum elevation of 200 meters or 656 feet, bordered by chain-link fences. Despite the relatively small size of the level, interactions between other explorers have never been reported and wanderers describe the level similar to a desert in terms of desolation.

Description

This level was first believed to be a sub-level of Level 10, but studies conducted by M.E.G. concluded this to not be the case.

The first observation noted a stable climate, resembling the Frontroom's Continental Climate variation, though days only last for 12 hours and each season lasts a maximum of 20 days. Precipitation can vary; however, due to unknown reasons, snow will still melt regardless of the freezing temperatures in the winter season. Reports also suggest foggy weather will grow stronger regardless of the season as the wanderer begins to spend considerable periods of time in the level.

The second observation established that the wheat on this level is highly toxic and not recommended for consumption. Research has concluded that it contains extreme levels of fungal toxins combined with an unusual amount of pesticide, though it does not rot.

Lastly, an abnormally high presence of scarecrows is a defining characteristic for this level, despite the lack of fauna. However, as time progresses, it appears fewer and fewer can be seen throughout the entire level.

Entities

Photograph of Maxwell.

Only one entity resides in the entire level, going by the name of "Maxwell". Maxwell takes on the appearance of a scarecrow, boasting formal attire. After some time spent on the level, the entity will greet wanderers with a general positive attitude. Maxwell has never been reported to show hostility and can be considered very talkative. Wanderers often say they feel relaxed when talking to Maxwell, and he will often respond to questions and appears to be very knowledgeable about entities and which to avoid. However, he doesn't seem to be informed about other subjects related to the Backrooms.

He is known to offer wanderers the possibility to permanently reside on this level, claiming he will provide shelter and care for them. Despite this, there are no reports about permanent residents within the level and all wanderers who have come out of the level claim that they have refused his offer. If he is refused once, Maxwell will attempt to persuade the wanderer, and if he's refused a second time, he will cease to interact completely. From this point onwards, he can be only seen attending to the scarecrows. Attempting to approach him after the second refusal has been reported impossible, as he will disappear the moment the wanderer gets close.

Bases, Outposts, and Communities

There are no known bases, outposts, or communities on this level.

Entrances and Exits

Entrances

• An out-of-place, almost torn-out wooden door on Level 155 will lead to Level 281.
• Very rarely, entering an abandoned structure and attempting to exit it in Level 184 will lead the wanderer to Level 281.

Exits

• Jumping over the chain-link fence bordering the level will bring the wanderer to Level 205.