LOCATION: New Albany, Ohio, USA
Photo above is property of Captivating Worlds
Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers
📝 ETR DECODER
🔑 GAME: Deep Underground
📅 DATE PLAYED: June 1, 2024
🎬 GENRE: Adventure
🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl): 6.5/10
👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS: 2-8 ppl
🕒 LENGTH OF TIME: 60 Mins.
💰 PRICE: $87.98 (2 ppl) - $255.92/ (8 ppl)
☎️ BOOKING TYPE: Private
🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED?: Yes
📖 THE STORY
During a special exploration of the deserted mines at the Cavern Coal Mining Company, you get ready to descend 300 feet in the mine's unstable elevator. As your tour takes an unforeseen turn, you encounter a series of challenges. By addressing certain unresolved matters in the mine, you might receive unexpected assistance in returning to the surface.
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🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE
The tour guide provided clear explanations about our destination and the safety measures required for the game. The entrances to the cave were beautifully decorated, and even the briefing area before the elevator descent was well-appointed. The meticulous attention to detail in props and lighting truly enhanced the immersive experience.
As we descended in the elevator, the story unfolded. The special effects at the beginning and end were the highlights of the experience. Over the course of an hour, we experienced a range of emotions, from excitement and fear to sadness and joy.
The creator skillfully weaved the storyline into the puzzles. Each puzzle solved led to a new revelation.
🧩 MISSED THE MARK
While the confirmation after solving each puzzle was great, it also slightly detracted from the overall immersion. There were moments when we were interrupted by the sound and had to divert our attention back to the screen, thinking the GM was trying to convey something to us.
One of the components in a puzzle seemed to lack a label, causing confusion for a while.
🏹 TAKE A SHOT?
Descending 300 feet requires us to use an elevator, which turned out to be one of the most remarkable elevator rides we have ever experienced. The sensation of movement, along with the realistic special effects of the elevator malfunctioning and stopping suddenly, made us question if it was all part of the intended experience.
As we delved deeper into the game, the story unfolded gradually through the puzzles we solved. Initially, we believed we were simply touring the mine, but the unexpected emotional intensity of the finale took us by surprise.
Captivating Worlds truly encompassed all aspects of an immersive adventure. From the visual appeal of the set design to the engaging storytelling and interactive puzzles, everything came together perfectly to conclude this thrilling experience. If you are in the area, make sure not to overlook the opportunity to book a tour of "Deep Underground"!
Photos above are property of Captivating Worlds
ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO
Free parking lot
Located on the 2nd floor (elevator available)
Merchandise available for purchase
Lockers with phone chargers available
Party room available
Lobby area with seating
"Deep Underground" includes low light conditions, flashing lights, fog, and dramatically uneven and shifting footing. Several areas of the experience could be tight for larger groups.
Age min 8, those under age 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Flat, closed-toe shoes ARE REQUIRED
Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers
(If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from "ESCAPETHEROOMers"!)
Disclosure: We thank Captivating Worlds for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion of the review whatsoever.
It's fascinating how 'Deep Underground' takes you on an emotional journey, not just through the puzzles but also with the tunnel rush story itself.