Level 497 is the 498th level of the Backrooms.
Description
Level 497 resembles an American office block in the middle of nothingness. While possible that this level was once surrounded by a bustling metropolis, as it currently stands, it sits in a void of white. Other than the architecture, the only notable feature of Level 497 is the incredibly excessive digital-esque corrosion that coats nearly every inch of the level. This isn't just a byproduct of vulnerable photography - these visual glitches are directly built into it. It is not known when these glitches first appeared in Level 497, but wanderer influence is suspected to be the primary cause. Wanderers that suffer from epilepsy or other conditions brought on by extreme visual corrosion should avoid this level at all costs.
Most of the external area in Level 497 is covered with a thin layer of snow, although no precipitation has ever been recorded. The average outside temperature is about 6°C (42.8°F) - thick clothing or a coat are both recommended. Internal temperature is slightly warmer at approximately 11°C (51.8°F). None of the office's facilities: power, heat, water, etc. are currently in operation.
Only one class of hostile entity is known to exist in Level 497; the "Mustang", as it's called, resembles the free-roaming horse of the same name. Much like the visuals of the level, the Mustang's appearance is very corrupted and glitched. They will randomly patrol around the level until coming into contact with a wanderer or other entity. While the Mustangs are not terribly difficult to incapacitate, their speed and agility can make them cumbersome to deal with en masse. Up to three Mustangs have been spotted at a time in the level, and when one is dealt with, they will always be revived within an in-level hour of being downed. The Mustangs will not retain past memories after being revived. The only way to permanently kill a Mustang is to sever the head from the rest of the body. There is no current way to permanently kill a Mustang. Not engaging with the entities and hiding from them when necessary is usually the best course of action.
Despite the visual challenges, Level 497 is relatively small and thus has been well-mapped.