LOCATION: Retie, Belgium
Photo above is property of Escaping Belgium
Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers
📝 ETR DECODER
🔑 GAME: Erzsebet
📅 DATE PLAYED: February 24, 2024
🎬 GENRE: Mystery
🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 4 ppl): 7/10
👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS: 2-6 ppl
🕒 LENGTH OF TIME: 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE: Є130
☎️ BOOKING TYPE: Private
🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED?: Yes [47:00]
📖 THE STORY
The countess Erzsebet was both vein and cruel. She desired to remain both youthful and beautiful for as long as possible. One day, in a fit of anger, she struck a maid for brushing her hair too hard. The maid’s spilled blood dripped onto Erzsebet’s hand and as it trickled down her arm, she noticed her skin appearing fresher. From that day on Erzsebet appeared to go through many new maids, the commoners were rumoured to believe she was draining their blood and she was infamously labelled a vampire and the world’s greatest ever serial killer. Centuries later you attend her castle to discover if the stories about her and her lust for virgin blood are true or not.
Video above is property of Escaping Belgium
🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE
Our first impression of the game was already a good one. Before entering we watch a short video detailing the story, which is always much better than having to read it yourself or listen to someone narrate it. Whilst the video might not be up to the same production value as many others in the region, the B-movie style left a positive impression as we couldn’t help but laugh at how corny it was (in a good way!).
The rooms inside Erzsebet’s chambers are expansive, allowing for teams of up to 6 to fit comfortable inside. The décor is in keeping with the 17th century setting, with a grand four-poster bed adorning her bedroom. In the rooms which follow, we continue to find thematic props and design choices to push the setting of the timeline.
Despite many of the puzzles being both simplistic in their design and construction we were pleasantly surprised at their quality and creativity; proving that good puzzles aren’t just expensive or high tech. We actually remarked whilst playing on one particular challenge, that it was such a simple twist on a conventional escape room action, but yet rewarding to complete; in over 600 rooms I hadn’t seen this task before, which was surprising due to its simplicity.
Another aspect of the puzzles we enjoyed was the variety; comprising of team challenges, exploration back and forth, and multi-layered riddles. The game wasn’t always linear, so awe were frequently able to attempt different things at the same time.
🧩 MISSED THE MARK
For the majority the immersion was maintained throughout by the materials used, but on occasion we were brought back to reality when we came across modern devices or elements, such as electronic keypads. We felt the experience would have been more complete if they committed 100% to the story and immersive experience.
Although there was a great introduction to the story in the beginning of the game, the ending was somewhat flat with no real climax or feeling of conclusion when we exited.
🏹 TAKE A SHOT?
"Erzsebet" is a room which is going to appeal to those who love puzzle rooms and don’t worry to much about immersion. There are some interesting and challenging things inside to solve that will always keep your mind active. The room size and style of puzzles also makes it obtainable for those wishing to bring larger teams and still ensure everyone can take an active role.
Photos above are property of Escaping Belgium
ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO
Parking is free onsite
There is a large lobby area for you to hang out before or after with drinks for purchase. Additionally, there is also a fantastic little shop selling handmade ceramic/pottery products by one of the escape room owners and jewelry too!
Lockers are available
Not wheelchair accessible due to uneven surfaces and stairs
Photo above is 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"!)
