FantEscapes - "Magicarium"

Updated: Mar 14

LOCATION:  Guelph, Ontario, Canada

Photo above is property of FantEscapes

Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers

📝 ETR DECODER

🔑 GAME: Magicarium
📅 DATE PLAYED: December 29, 2023
🎬 GENRE: Magic
🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 3 Players): 6/10
👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS: 2-8 PPL (Groups 5-8PPL will be split into 2 teams)
🕒 LENGTH OF TIME: 60 Mins.
💰 PRICE: CAD $25/PP
☎️ BOOKING TYPE: Private
🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED?: YES

📖 THE STORY

Seeking to prove yourself in the ways of magic, you have been given a choice. Follow the path of light to gain access to the white crystal and the Magicarium or to take head the path of dark by seeking the dark crystals and the power of the Magicarium you hope to steal. Regardless of your choice, all you need is a wand, a cloak, and a desire to succeed.

🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE

The duality of this experience is outstanding - you can easily replay this game by switching paths with no puzzle overlap.
The set design was nuanced and I loved the little additions that helped immerse players from the wands, the ceiling tiles, and the way artifacts were used to guide players.
The puzzling uses a mix of newer puzzles (using the wand to activate passages) and old school (locks) which I enjoyed. It gave satisfaction throughout as we moved through rooms and revealed hidden elements.
The puzzles made use of logic based situations and the erasable notepad made things so much easier to help track.
The side puzzles do a great job to ensure all players have something to do during the game as some sections are tight quarters - these side quests gave us a chance to spread out.

🧩 MISSED THE MARK

I wish there was more impact with the choice you made - I felt regardless of the choice the outcome would not change much in the story.

🏹 TAKE A SHOT?

"Magicarium" is a fantastical magician adventure that is filled with whimsy and intrigue for all players. Holding a wand up as you navigate the puzzles, pear into display cabinets, and complete the tasks laid before you immersed us in ways we haven’t seen in awhile. The level of detail and dedication is obvious and the payout is an enjoyable experience that is tailored to all players. We ended up needing no hints and still felt the challenge which, to us, is a strong sign! Now get your cloak and head on over to get your membership.

ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO

Street Parking only
Not wheelchair accessible (basement facility)
Lobby with couch seating, costumes for photos, and various memorabilia to examine and explore
Geeky Boutique has oddities, gifts and treats you can purchase like: Harry Potter hats, Lego, Steampunk jewelry, etc.