Dead Island 2 features a variety of intriguing Lost and Found side quests that send players searching across post-apocalyptic Los Angeles for hidden clues. One of the most engaging side missions on the Santa Monica Pier is titled Message in a Bottle, which involves tracking down a pretentious food critic stranded during the outbreak. Finding the initial quest item requires finishing specific main story prerequisites and thoroughly searching the sandy coastline.
How to Unlock and Locate the Message in a Bottle Quest
To trigger the Message in a Bottle quest, players must first complete the Boardwalking Dead main story mission at the Santa Monica Pier. Once that requirement is met, head down to the shoreline southeast of the pier structure. You will spot a glass bottle washed up on the sand containing a dramatic plea for help written by food critic Anthony R. Oliver.
Interacting with the washed-up bottle adds the first quest journal entry directly to your inventory. This note provides subtle hints regarding the critic's initial hiding spot rather than placing an explicit destination marker on your map. Reading these clues carefully is key to navigating the quest without getting lost.
Searching the Bucket O' Fish and Pier Grill
The first clue points players toward the nearby Bucket O' Fish restaurant located on the edge of the pier. Head inside and venture down into the basement area while remaining cautious of hidden environmental hazards. After safely navigating an electrified floor hazard, you will discover the critic's next review sitting atop a crate.
Reading this review reveals that the critic moved onward to the Pier Grill restaurant located nearby. Exit the basement, make your way across the boardwalk, and clear out the aggressive undead enemies guarding the outdoor patio. You can collect the third journal review sitting on one of the outdoor dining tables.
Finding the Final Location at the Hot Dog Shack
The third journal entry hints at a desire for quick, greasy food, directing players to the Hot Dog Shack. This small red-and-white stand is situated just north of the beachside Lifeguard HQ. Approaching the eastern side of the shack will trigger the final encounter of this investigation.
Upon arriving, you will discover that Anthony R. Oliver has unfortunately succumbed to the infection and transformed into a powerful Slobber zombie. Defeat him alongside the surrounding hazmat zombies to recover his final review note. Completing this quest grants 3,000 XP and a valuable Slayer Card for your effort.
