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LOCATION: Karlsruhe, Germany Photo above is property of Adventurebox Karlsruhe Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝    ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Mission Impossible 📅 DATE PLAYED : June 28, 2025 🎬 GENRE : Spy Thriller 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl) : 6/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-6 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : 90-159 € ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes (29:00) 📖 THE STORY A notorious art thief is residing in Karlsruhe. The most valuable piece in his illegal collection is a gemstone of incomparable beauty and immeasurable value: the Aurora Diamond. Tonight, it's supposed to be moved from its storage location—this is our chance! The operation is being carried out in secret: the target is someone of rank and distinction. You are the most fearless secret agents in the world – save the Aurora Diamond, expose the hypocritical thief! 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE Our mission kicked off with an immersive briefing, not only from our gamemaster, but also via a well-produced video communication. Once the video concluded, the gamemaster returned to provide us with essential tools to help recover the stolen diamond. These included a detailed map of the facility outlining key security systems we would need to bypass, and a toolkit containing various objects for use throughout the mission. How and when to use them, however, was entirely up to us to figure out. This setup generated a genuine sense of excitement and anticipation as we approached the game room door. Stepping inside came as a welcome surprise, not into the compound itself, but outside it. Our first challenge was to get past the guard dog and figure out how to break in. The novelty of this outdoor-feel introduction and the sequence of tasks that followed made for a fantastic opening — easily my favourite part of the game. The journey through the compound is well-designed and packed with dynamic, physical challenges that had us climbing, crawling, and shimmying our way forward. This interactive gameplay injected a real sense of realism for anyone who’s ever fantasized about pulling off a Mission Impossible-style heist. We genuinely felt like elite spies as we decoded systems, completed mental puzzles, and performed skill-based tasks to dismantle various layers of security. The difficulty level is very well balanced. The game doesn’t become easier just because you're an experienced player. This makes it a strong choice for everyone; from seasoned escape room veterans to young families. The mix of physical and mental challenges ensures ongoing engagement and appeal. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK The set design leans toward the minimal, with few furnishings or decorative props to elevate the level of immersion. While this doesn’t detract from the gameplay itself, a more visually rich environment could have added that extra cinematic flair. Still, aside from the slightly sparse aesthetic, there was little else to fault. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? As suggested throughout, this is a welcoming and accessible game for players of all ages and experience levels. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned pro, the room offers an exciting, fast-paced spy mission that feels fun, cinematic, and hands-on. ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Parking is not available on site. However, street parking is available on the residential streets surrounding the escape room. There is a lobby area with comfortable seating and drinks for sale 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 Adventurebox Karlsruhe for providing us with a media discount for this game. Although a media discount was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #RyanDriver #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #Adventurebox #Spy #Thriller #Karlsruhe #Germany

LOCATION: Orlando, Florida, USA Photo above is property of The Bureau Escape Rooms Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Puppet Heist: The Hand of Life 📅 DATE PLAYED : November 15, 2021 🎬 GENRE : Heist 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl) : 5.5/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-10 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $37.99/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY Your mission... should you choose to accept it...There's a warehouse that contains a special one-of-a-kind relic. In order to perform this heist, you figure out a way to break inside and carefully steal the item! Your team has been gathered and... oh yea... they're a bunch of puppets!! Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE The name already intrigued us before we even step foot into the game itself. Honestly this is our first game involving puppets. We were very excited. Think Sesame Street set design. We were amazed by the build out. I love the fact that the character in the game actually "speaks" to you. It acts as the hint giver and also pushes you along in case you get stuck on something for too long. The tech in this room was top of the line. There were some props we never seen before and have no idea how the made it work but it definitely made an impression in our memories. The special effect (especially towards the end) was movie quality. One minute we were "wow"ing something we just saw happen in one corner of the room and right away we had to turn to look up at another amazing "act". 🧩 MISSED THE MARK I am not sure if this would be missed the market for us per se but the puzzles for escape room enthusiasts might feel like completing a video game. It might not be satisfying for some puzzle seekers as it's more tasky and repetitive in some parts. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? The Bureau Escape Rooms "wowed" us before we even enter the lobby. It's secret yet impressive welcome message to the agents (us) was truly unique. It felt like a production. You would not be able to know what's in store for you from the outside. This game was also an experience. I wouldn't really call it a true escape room because you wouldn't be experiencing the typical puzzles so to some enthusiast they might have mix feelings with this room. We really enjoyed it because of the theatrical aspect of the game. The props, sound and lighting really helped complete this SHOW. The storyline also really helped make it whimsical that for a period of time we forgot we had a time limit to solve puzzles. You'll just need to get there to experience it yourself in order to know what we're talking about. One thing we can guarantee and that is you'll forever remember this unique experience. ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO There is a free parking lot in front of the facility. Keep in mind, your GPS might lead you to the front, but the parking lot is in the back. If you got to a building that looks abandoned, perhaps "travel agency" related business then you're at the right place. Huge lobby area with seating, great for large events. Both alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase. Photos above are property of The Bureau Escape Rooms (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 The Bureau Escape Rooms for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #BrandonChow #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #Heist #Adventure #Espionage #Fun #Puppets #TheBureau #USA #Florida

LOCATION: Orlando, Florida, USA Photo above is property of The Bureau Escape Rooms Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Dr. Braingood 📅 DATE PLAYED : November 15, 2021 🎬 GENRE : Sci-Fi 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl) : 8/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-8 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $37.99/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY The evil Dr. Braingood is up to no good again. This time his plans is to destroy the world! It looks like the only hope for humankind is you. You have to pose as his newly hired assistant and disable his drill before it's too late! Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE The high ceiling really created a sense of majestic feeling to this evil Doctor's lair. There's a huge display in there that made you feel like you're literally talking and being monitored by him. I love that humor was implemented in one of the puzzles. Although we had to repeat it several times, we're laughing about it the entire way. The game actually knows to adjust the requirement for a puzzle according to how many players. This was quite impressive as we had played games where a minimum of three players is required and the game master had to come in to help us. Hopefully this will be implemented more into future escape room tech designs. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK There was a "search and find" component in the beginning of the game that took almost half of our game time. It was even difficult for the game master to point out which one we've missed. Since it's a timed task as well, it was quite frustrating at one point as we literally thought we were going to spend the entire game on puzzle number one. There was one "puzzle" that felt more like a search and find your answer type. It didn't feel like it fit in with the rest of the puzzle type. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? The Bureau Escape Rooms "wowed" us before we even enter the lobby. It's secret yet impressive welcome message to the agents (us) was truly unique. It felt like a production. You would not be able to know what's in store for you from the outside. This game was similar to "Puppet Heist" in the sense that it's not your typical escape room. This one was even more so like a video game. There are tasks that will need you to recognize pattern, test your memory and even agility! Most of the tasks is created by the evil doctor to see if you are worthy of becoming his new assistant so it's definitely not going to be easy. Although we did play the room with two people. If you had more people, that first task could definitely come much easier for your group. The Bureau Escape Rooms was working on a new game called "UFO: Go For Launch!" when we were there. From the looks of it, it's going to be amazing. We can't wait to go back to check them out when we're in town again! ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO There is a free parking lot in front of the facility. Keep in mind, your GPS might lead you to the front, but the parking lot is in the back. If you got to a building that looks abandoned, perhaps "travel agency" related business then you're at the right place. Huge lobby area with seating, great for large events. Both alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase. Photos above are property of The Bureau Escape Rooms (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 The Bureau Escape Rooms for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #BrandonChow #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #SciFi #Adventure #TheBureau #USA #Florida

LOCATION: Tampa, Florida, USA Photo above is property of GAME OVER Escape Rooms Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Toymaker 📅 DATE PLAYED : July 1, 2025 🎬 GENRE: Horror 🧠 DI FFICULTY (Based on 3 ppl) : 7/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-8 ppl 🕒 LENGT H OF T IME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $75.98 (2 ppl) - $303.92 (8 ppl) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY Lost in the darkness of night, you and your friends discover an ancient Toy Shop. As the door creaks open, you find yourselves in the heart of a labyrinth crafted by a toymaker whose sanity has long since waned. Surrounded by shadows flickering on the walls and toys observing with vacant eyes, you must solve forgotten puzzles to escape this living nightmare. With each step, the story of this cursed place reveals itself, and as the clock ticks against you, the question lingers: will you escape in time, or become the newest additions to the Toy Maker's macabre collection? Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE Upon entering the dimly lit toy shop, filled with various types of toys, we experienced a mix of curiosity and a desire to leave. The latter sentiment proved to be justified as we ventured further into the shop. We appreciated the dramatic transition of the set design and the storyline. The room contained an appropriate number of jump scares. They were effective enough to startle, yet not so overwhelming as to hinder puzzle-solving abilities. There were several innovative puzzles that cleverly incorporated toys as props. We particularly enjoyed a multi-step puzzle that benefited from teamwork, allowing for more efficient completion. The sound and lighting effects complemented the reveals and jump scares exceptionally well. The lighting was particularly effective in directing players' attention, showcasing the creators' skill in designing this room. The experience concluded with a visually satisfying ending that neatly tied up the narrative. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK One of the visual elements seemed somewhat out of place with the overall decor of the room. We believe there may be a more suitable source for this puzzle's clue. A more complex puzzle towards the end requires clearer guidance regarding the steps and the placement of specific items. We spent the most time on this particular puzzle, especially since providing hints to players is challenging due to its multi-step nature. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? Imagine accidentally wandering into the enchanting labyrinth of a toymaker's shop, only to find that he's crafted a series of wild puzzles designed to trap you inside. We absolutely love escape rooms that present unique themes, as they spark an incredible sense of excitement especially being that we've played thousands of rooms at this point. This game is perfect for those who crave a touch of "danger," but rest assured, there are no live actors involved. As you progress, the game becomes even more exhilarating with unexpected twists awaiting you at every turn. Do you have what it takes to escape this mysterious ancient toy shop? ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Free parking outside the facility Lobby with seating area Merchandise for sale Photos above are property of GAME OVER Escape Rooms Check out our YouTube video for a sneak peek of the location, an interview with the owner, the room(s) (no puzzle spoilers) and more: Video 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 "!) Disclosure :   We thank GAME OVER Escape Rooms (Tampa)   for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #CiciCao #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #GAMEOVER #Horror #Tampa #Florida #USA

Photo above is property of Thames & Kosmos Company: Thames & Kosmos Game: Exit The Game: Advent Calendar - The Intergalactic Race Country: USA 🇺🇸 Language: English Type of Game: Tabletop Games 📬 Genre: Sci-Fi Date Played: August 1, 2025 Difficulty (based on 2 player): 5/10 Size of Team: 1+ Players (Ages 10+) Time: Approximately 5-15 minutes per day Price: $49.95 🆃🅷🅴 🆂🆃🅾🆁🆈 For months, the talk of the cosmos has been the epic 24-day Le Mond space race…and somehow, you’ve landed a spot on a quirky racer’s team after a chance encounter at a space bar. (Lesson learned: never underestimate the networking potential of interplanetary happy hour.) The stakes are high: fame, glory, and (most importantly) the honor of running Christmas! Naturally, competition is fierce. You never know who you might run into along the way (or who might run into you...) While the setup screams “high-speed race,” the journey feels more like a meandering interstellar road trip in an old jalopy with lots of quirky pit stops. But we very much enjoyed the story, particularly the characters and their evolution. 🆃🅷🅴 ❞🅻🅾🅾🅺🆂❞ The box is bursting with bright, playful space art, including some pop-culture nods and sly callbacks to previous Exit games. We did a thorough once-over of the box at the start and loved noting all the little details and imagining how they might eventually come into play (rarely correctly)! The compartments are well-constructed, and while you’ll still benefit from a flashlight and maybe a magnifying glass, there’s less of that awkward, neck-craning “I think I see something in the back there” action compared to past, as more colorful accompaniments are included in the storybook. The interiors of each day's box are (as always) beautiful, varied, and fun to explore without being overly fiddly, and nearly every inch of real estate on the main packaging gets used for puzzle elements, sometimes in ways you absolutely don’t expect. That said, one important element was tucked away a little deeper than we’d have liked. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🆃🅷🅴 🅶🅰🅼🅴 🅿🅻🅰🆈 As with other Exit advent calendars, each day starts with reading a story entry (which typically contain or end in clues), then you open the day’s compartment to find artwork and some number of cards and/or “special objects”. You use those (along with any other materials in the game) to deduce a three-digit code, plug it into the decoder, and find directions on the back side as to which compartment to open next. As in past games, you verify that you found the correct code by then matching symbols on the box “doors” to those on the back of the decoder. The process is smooth, with a comprehensive tiered hint booklet on hand for when you need a nudge (or three). Just be sure to write the date on each door as you play them or otherwise keep track of which door goes with which day. One neat twist: on two potentially tricky days, there’s an alternate puzzle (referenced at the very top of the hint page for both days) you can swap in. If you don’t use it during the race, you can save it as a bonus “victory lap” at the end. (Find it at the end of the hints booklet.) It’s a nice touch for those that might struggle with two particular puzzle types, while also giving a little bonus for the rest of us. It also utilizes a suspiciously intriguing artistic element that remained unused during our experience. Like most Exit titles, this is designed as a one-and-done adventure. Some components are meant to be folded, marked, or otherwise transformed along the way. That said, with a bit of care (and the occasional photo copy or transparency), you can keep it in good shape to gift or share. You could even go the extra mile and tuck in small surprises for the next player, turning each day’s puzzle into a double reward! Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🆃🅷🅴 🅿🆄🆉🆉🅻🅴🆂 As with the other Exit advent calendars, this one’s labeled “Beginner,” but we didn’t completely cruise through it like we might expect at that level. Most days took us about 5–10 minutes, but a few were less (very beginner) and a few times we had to reach for hints. In a couple cases, this was more because we felt the instructions didn’t quite match the actual goal, but there were also a few great puzzles where we just truly needed a nudge. There’s a good mix of puzzle types, involving a wide range of skills: spatial reasoning, musical knowledge, decoding, folding, card tricks, etc. Once again, we were super impressed by just how much they managed to pack into this box! And for a largely paper-based game, they do an incredible job of creating all kinds of tactile, physical interactions with very satisfying solves - with many of the puzzles being directly connected to the story, but also wrapped in Christmas spirit. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🅲🅻🅾🆂🅸🅽🅶 🆃🅷🅾🆄🅶🅷🆃🆂 " The Intergalactic Race " is proof that Exit’s puzzle engineers are still firing on all thrusters. It delivers another month of creative, tactile, and delightfully jam-packed puzzling. The “space race” concept is cute, even if it feels like we’re patching our ship more than racing it. The characters are fun (one in particular grows on you over time), and the story sprinkles in clever humor and creative easter eggs for the observant. This one feels slightly more holiday-adjacent than last year’s Hollywood Star, but it’s still easy to enjoy any time of year. We played ours in August and still felt the festive spark. If you’re looking for a fun daily challenge that blends hands-on puzzling with whimsical world-building, this box is a stellar choice. It’s family-friendly (though they recommend ages 10+), but we still totally loved it as two light-hearted adults. We can’t wait to see where Exit takes us next year…after all this racing, chilling in a relaxing snow globe might be nice. Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers Check out our interview with the creators to understand more on the development side of the game: Video 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 "!) Disclosure : We thank Thames & Kosmos for providing us with samples of the game. Although a complimentary experience was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #DaveBristol #AtHomeGames #TabletopGames #PuzzlesByMail #OneOffs #AdventCalendar #Holiday #SciFi #ThamesandKosmos #USA #ExitTheGame

LOCATION: Strasbourg, France Photo above is property of A Maze In Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝    ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Asylum 1920 📅 DATE PLAYED : June 27, 2025 🎬 GENRE : Spooky 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl) : 6/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-4 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : 28-38 €/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes (31:00) 📖 THE STORY In 1920, it didn’t take much to be branded insane. After a fever left you raving, you were swiftly declared unfit and locked away in a grim psychiatric hospital. Now, confined to a padded cell with nothing but a flickering lantern, your mind is clear, but no one believes you. You're not alone. In the next room, another patient may hold the key to your freedom. You’ll have to work together, across walls, through whispers, and in the dark, to unravel the secrets of this twisted institution. Time is running out. Dr. Maze is making his rounds, and if you’re still here when he returns... you may never leave. 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE As with all games at A Maze In, our experience began with an in-character and entertaining interaction with our gamemaster. This time, she was playfully deciding which of us would start locked in the doctor’s office and which poor soul would be confined to the padded cell. Spoiler: I drew the short straw and got the cell! This is very much a game of two halves. For the majority of the time, players are split between the two spaces, only reuniting near the end to work together on their escape before the doctor returns. I’m not usually a big fan of extended team separation, especially in a two-player game—but here, the difficulty was well-balanced, and we both genuinely enjoyed the challenge. For us, two players felt like the ideal group size. That said, we think even with up to four it could still work without feeling too cramped or chaotic. The set design struck a great balance, dark and devious, without being overdone. Low lighting and selectively placed props created a convincingly grim atmosphere. I particularly liked the padded cell, which avoided the cliché sterile white aesthetic. Instead, it felt raw and realistic, featuring graffiti and scribbles left behind by previous “residents.” It added an eerie authenticity without leaning too far into horror. As you'd expect, the gameplay involved a fair bit of communication and exchanging physical items through slots or openings, but it wasn’t exclusively about collaboration. There were also independent puzzles that each player needed to work through alone. I appreciated this variety. Some games fall into the trap of requiring constant teamwork, which can dilute the individual problem-solving aspect. Here, there were moments of “what does this do?” and “is this for me or for them?” that added a satisfying mental layer. Puzzle design overall was diverse, thematic, and engaging. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK The game could have benefited from being slightly longer or having a larger footprint, perhaps by adding another space to break into (and out of). The flow was solid, but the physical scope felt just a little limited. That said, we understand the challenge of working within a confined venue layout. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? We’re glad we played this as a duo, it felt like the sweet spot for difficulty and pace, especially for more experienced players. From what we’ve read, Asylum 1920 tends to divide opinion a bit, but we both firmly fall on the positive side. We found it creative, immersive, and fun to play. While the theme leans into a darker tone, there’s nothing overtly frightening here. It’s more eerie than scary—so even those who shy away from horror-themed games should have no problem with this one. ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Parking is not available on site, however there are plenty of car parks in the surrounding area, as well as a Park & Ride scheme There is a large lobby area with comfortable seating and a bar that serves food and drink. 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 A Maze In for providing us with a media discount for this game. Although a media discount was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #RyanDriver #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #AMazeIn #Spooky #Strasbourg #France

LOCATION: Charlotte, North Carolina, USA Photo above is property of The Keepers of Balance Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Quest for the Temple of Light 📅 DATE PLAYED : July 26, 2025 🎬 GENRE: Adventure 🧠 DI FFICULTY (Based on 5 ppl) : 4/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-6 ppl 🕒 LENGT H OF T IME : 75 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $55.00/ pp (Mon-Thur: Min. 2 ppl, Fri-Sun: Min. 4 ppl) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY The Keepers of Balance are an international organization dedicated to maintaining stability across the world. They work quietly behind the scenes, ensuring that powerful forces—both natural and supernatural—remain in harmony. You and your friends are known as The Curious, a select group entrusted with assisting the Keepers in their mission. Your role is to locate and stabilize mysterious portals that appear across the globe, bending them back into balance before they spiral into chaos. The Quest for the Temple of Light serves as the origin story for your Curious team. This adventure begins with a journey deep into an ancient temple, where legend speaks of a powerful treasure hidden within its walls. Your mission is simple: retrieve the treasure before the portal closes forever. If you succeed, you’ll not only secure the artifact but also earn your place as an official member of the Keepers of Balance. Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE The set design in Quest for the Temple of Light is nothing short of breathtaking, delivering a sense of immensity and scale rarely seen in the United States. Created by true escape room enthusiasts, every inch of the experience, from the lobby to the final room, is packed with scenic detail and handcrafted love. The game’s opening sequence gives you time to interact with your game master, improvise, and settle into the playful yet mysterious world they’ve built. It’s a clever choice, because what follows is one of the most jaw-dropping reveals I’ve seen in quite some time. While the puzzles here aren’t the most difficult, the game excels at creating an experience for everyone. There’s an exciting mix of physical and mental challenges, ensuring every player—regardless of skill level—has a chance to shine. Enthusiasts may find some of the puzzles on the easier side, but the game’s charm, creativity, and pacing more than make up for it. For newer players, this is an unforgettable introduction to what escape rooms can be. The integration of the game master into the story was a real highlight, adding unexpected twists that kept me on my toes. Just when I thought I knew where things were headed, the game flipped my expectations in the best possible way. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK As engaging as the concept is, the story in Quest for the Temple of Light felt a bit convoluted and unclear in its progression. Even after completing the game, I wasn’t entirely sure how our journey from becoming “The Curious” transitioned into the events of the adventure itself. The narrative framework was there, but the connective tissue between the beats of the story could have been stronger. While the scenic and set design were undeniably impressive, the flow between rooms left me somewhat puzzled. Without giving too much away, it felt less like a cohesive temple adventure and more like a highlight reel of “cool temple moments” the creators wanted to showcase. It was fun to experience each space, but the transitions between them—especially the leap from one temple to another, lacked in-game explanation. A few of the music choices also pulled me out of the immersion. Hearing popular, recognizable themes in certain environments was fun in the moment, but sometimes it overshadowed the atmosphere the designers had worked so hard to create. At times, I caught myself focusing more on the music than the puzzles or environment. While some players may enjoy the familiarity, a more tailored, thematic soundtrack might better preserve the immersion and keep the focus squarely on the adventure. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? The Keepers of Balance: Quest for the Temple of Light stands out as one of the most ambitious and visually stunning escape rooms in the United States. Few independent productions manage to achieve the same sense of scale and grandeur that this game does. From the very moment you walk into the lobby, it’s clear that love, care, and a remarkable amount of craftsmanship have gone into creating an experience that feels both massive in scope and intimate in its details. Every room, every prop, every reveal carries the mark of creators who are both enthusiasts and artists, and it shows. Where the game truly shines is in the sheer variety of experiences it offers. Unlike rooms that lean heavily on one type of puzzle or interaction, Temple of Light mixes everything together—physical challenges, mental puzzles, theatrical interactions, and environmental exploration. This makes it accessible to almost any group. Hardcore puzzlers may find the difficulty a little lighter than what they’re used to, but that only broadens the appeal, making it an excellent entry point for the general public while still providing plenty of charm and cleverness for seasoned players. Combined with the energetic role-play and fun twists from the game master, it feels like you’re not just solving puzzles, but taking part in a living adventure. That said, the game isn’t perfect. The storyline feels a bit muddled at times, as if the connective tissue between becoming “the Curious” and diving into the temple adventure never fully gelled. The transitions between areas, while spectacular in presentation, sometimes feel more like a highlight reel of incredible temple-themed ideas than a cohesive narrative journey. Even the music choices, while fun in isolation, occasionally pulled focus from the immersion—moments when the soundtrack became more noticeable than the story unfolding around it. And while the finale was undeniably epic in presentation, it wrapped up more abruptly than expected, leaving some players wanting a bit more closure to match the scale of the journey. But here’s the key point: none of these critiques diminish the fact that Quest for the Temple of Light is immensely fun to play. The puzzles are well-designed, the reveals are jaw-dropping, and the adventure itself is full of joy. It’s one of those rare games that makes players feel like kids again, exploring a giant playground of secrets, surprises, and wonders. Even if the narrative stumbles, the thrill of discovery, the excitement of the reveals, and the passion of the creators more than make up for it. This is a game that every escape room fan in the U.S. should put on their list. It’s a showcase of what happens when big ideas and heartfelt passion collide—an adventure that might not tie every story thread perfectly, but delivers an unforgettable experience all the same. For enthusiasts, it’s a chance to see just how far independent creators can push the boundaries of design. For newcomers, it’s an accessible, dazzling introduction to the escape room world. And for everyone, it’s simply a fantastic ride worth taking. ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Free Parking located outside of venue Basic physicality is recommended (they can accommodate) Photos above are property of The Keepers of Balance (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 The Keepers of Balance   for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #MikeSchnurr #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #TheKeepersofBalance #Adventure #NorthCarolina #USA

LOCATION: Strasbourg, France Photo above is property of The Little Red Door - Escape Game Strasbourg Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝    ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Bunker B-57: Plutonium Expedition! 📅 DATE PLAYED : June 29, 2025 🎬 GENRE : Apocalyptic 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl) : 6.5/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-5 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : 26-36 €/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes (39:00) 📖 THE STORY The year is 2052. Nearly a century has passed since the nuclear war of 1960 drove humanity underground. The last surviving cities cling to life in buried shelters, powered by aging plutonium reactors. In New Atlanta, time is running out. Power levels are plummeting. If nothing is done, the lights will go out—permanently. Your team has been chosen for a high-risk mission: venture into a long-abandoned military bunker, untouched for decades, and retrieve a cache of plutonium. But the facility is unstable, the systems ancient, and the way forward riddled with security protocols and unknown dangers. Can you restore power to a dying city—or will New Atlanta fade into darkness? Video above is property of The Little Red Door - Escape Game Strasbourg 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE The Little Red Door has a reputation for cinematic, high-quality escape experiences, and Bunker B-57 is no exception. From the moment we stepped into the initial briefing room, we were fully immersed in what genuinely felt like a cold, isolated underground bunker. The lighting, props, and sound design established a foreboding atmosphere right from the start. As we delved deeper into the facility, new spaces like the control room and the shower area opened up to us. Each location served a narrative purpose, helping to unravel the bunker’s backstory. One particularly strong aspect of the experience was the evolving storyline. Through eerie video diaries left behind by a former resident, we pieced together what had happened in the years prior — a clever storytelling device that added emotional weight and context to our actions. The game also offered optional objectives for those wanting an extra challenge. We were told during the briefing that bonus points could be earned by retrieving specific items, with scores based on how relevant and informative those items were. This added layer of gameplay gave us further motivation to explore and investigate every nook and cranny. A standout feature was the oxygen-based time mechanic. Rather than starting with the full 60 minutes, we began with just 15 — a clever twist that injected urgency from the start. To earn more time, we had to locate oxygen capsules hidden around the bunker. These capsules also served as currency for hints, and any remaining at the end contributed to our final score. It’s a smart, immersive twist on standard clue systems. Puzzle-wise, everything felt grounded in the world. We deciphered maps, dug through the belongings of past residents, ran diagnostics, and even worked with raw plutonium (don’t worry — not really). There was a good balance between individual tasks and collaborative problem-solving, and the pacing kept things engaging throughout. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK There’s little to complain about here. That said, one UV-based puzzle was difficult to read due to worn-down text — a refresh would go a long way. Also, the initial introduction ran a bit long; while detailed, it risked losing our attention before the game even began. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? " Bunker B-57 " is an incredibly well-rounded game that fires positively on all fronts; advanced storytelling, high quality and immersive set design, thematic puzzles, a unique clue giving and time management system, and additional mission objectives. I am sure anyone who gives it a go will be charmed and drawn in to this post-apocalyptic world. Its medium difficulty makes it accessible to both seasoned escape room fans and first-timers alike. Whether you’re in it for the story, the challenge, or the spectacle — this is one bunker absolutely worth breaking into. ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Parking is not available on site. There is a paid parking garage directly opposite the escape room center. There is a lobby area with comfortable seating 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 The Little Red Door - Escape Game Strasbourg for providing us with a media discount for this game. Although a media discount was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #RyanDriver #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #TheLittleRedDoor #Apocalyptic #Strasbourg #France

Photo above is property of Thames & Kosmos Company:    Thames & Kosmos Game:   Caesar & Cleopatra Country:    USA 🇺🇸 Language:     English Type of Game:    Tabletop Games 📬 Genre:   Card Game Date Played:     June 1, 2025 Difficulty (based on 2 players):    6/10 Size of Team:    2 Players (Ages 10+) Time:   Approximately 40 Mins. Price:     $19.95 🆃🅷🅴 🆂🆃🅾🆁🆈: A Journey Through Ancient Rome Caesar & Cleopatra is a thrilling two-player strategy card game by Kosmos. Set in ancient Rome, it immerses players in the political power struggle between Julius Caesar and Queen Cleopatra. As rival leaders, we compete to win the favor of five influential Roman factions: Senators, Patricians, Legionaries, Merchants, and Priests. Our goal? To secure control over Rome’s destiny! This review dives into the updated 2025 release, which boasts new artwork and refined game mechanics. These tweaks make the game more balanced and exciting, especially when an experienced player faces off against a newbie. For instance, the Action deck is now randomized instead of prearranged, and players start with a set Action card. This adds a fresh twist to the gameplay! 🆃🅷🅴 🅶🅰🅼🅴 🅿🅻🅰🆈: How to Play In Caesar & Cleopatra, each player takes on the role of either Caesar or Cleopatra. The objective is to win the favor of different Roman factions while completing secret missions. The player with the most points at the end of the game emerges victorious! Gameplay Steps: Play Influence Cards Place one Influence card face-down and one face-up under one or two different factions. Optionally, play one Action card to manipulate cards, peek at your opponent’s cards, or remove them. This must be done either before or after the influence cards, not in-between. Draw a Bust Token Draw a Bust token from the bag. The color of the Bust determines which faction will hold a vote. If a grey or black Bust is drawn, no vote occurs that turn. Reveal Influence in the indicated faction. The player with the higher total wins that faction’s favor. In case of a tie, no player wins that faction during that vote. Draw Back Up to 6 Cards Players can draw from either their Action card pile or their Influence card pile. The game concludes when all faction cards have been claimed from the center of the table or when both players have exhausted their influence cards. Players then tally their scores based on: The number of Patrician cards held Majority of Patrician cards in a single faction Possession of all cards of a single faction Completion of secret missions Whoever has the most points wins! At its core, this is still a card game. However, the addition of pulling the busts introduces a welcomed twist, adding an element of luck and suspense to the gameplay. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🆃🅷🅴 🅿🆄🆉🆉🅻🅴🆂: The Heart of the Game The core puzzle of this game lies in finding a balance between being proactive and reactive. Guided by your secret mission or strategic focus on certain factions, you must constantly pivot based on your opponent’s moves. This push-and-pull creates a dynamic rhythm, keeping you engaged with every turn—there’s never really any downtime! Action cards add another compelling layer, introducing a thrilling aspect of "push your luck." Deciding when to trigger their powers can be a real brain teaser, often feeling like a high-stakes gamble. This element of timing, suspense, and subtle bluffing adds depth to the gameplay, enhancing both its replayability and the richness of your decisions. The expanded set of secret missions—especially compared to the original game—adds more variety and makes outcomes less predictable. That said, since you’re only ever working toward one of them, it doesn’t dominate the game. It’s more of a subtle nudge in how you approach your strategy rather than a central objective. We also liked how certain actions, like flipping the victory condition of a Patrician or vetoing a vote, can be especially potent if played at the right moment. Plus, burning through too many influence cards can bring the game to an end, adding a nice tension—you’re always weighing whether to slow things down and collect more Patricians or speed things up to derail your opponent’s momentum. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🅲🅻🅾🆂🅸🅽🅶 🆃🅷🅾🆆🆃🆂: Final Thoughts This game is a clever mix of hidden information, tactical bluffing, and timing. Managing limited resources and predicting your opponent’s moves are key to victory. But let’s not forget, Lady Luck also plays a role! Originally published in 1997, it’s part of the acclaimed Kosmos 2-player series, known for its quick gameplay (about 45 minutes) and streamlined mechanics. The 2025 edition retains the core gameplay while introducing clearer rules and smoother interactions. This makes it easier for newer players to jump right in! Its quick setup and breakdown, along with easy-to-remember rules, make Caesar & Cleopatra an ideal weekday game. It’s perfect for playing just after dinner while you’re still sitting at the table. If you enjoyed this game and are looking for something even more tactical, Kosmos offers other excellent two-player games like Targi and Imhotep: The Duel. For something simpler and even more approachable, try the classic Lost Cities, another fan-favorite from the Kosmos 2-player line. Check out our interview with the creators to understand more about the development side of the game: Video 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 "!) Disclosure : We thank Thames & Kosmos for providing us with samples of the game. Although a complimentary experience was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #RyanDriver #AtHomeGames #TabletopGames #PuzzlesByMail #OneOffs #CardGame #ThamesandKosmos #USA

LOCATION: Karlsruhe, Germany Photo above is property of Adventurebox Karlsruhe Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝    ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Das 5. Element 📅 DATE PLAYED : June 28, 2025 🎬 GENRE : Adventure 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl) : 6/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-6 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : 90-159 € ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes (41:00) 📖 THE STORY While digging beneath Karlsruhe to build the new subway tunnel, construction crews stumble upon something extraordinary: the entrance to a long-lost crypt buried deep beneath the city. Inside, ancient hieroglyphs speak of a forgotten power—a legendary fifth element—sealed within a tomb untouched for millennia. Now, the world’s greatest hope lies with you: a team of elite archaeologists. Your path winds through sacred murals, ominous skeletons, and a snake pit that guards the tomb’s secrets. But be warned—this isn’t just history. It’s a place of ancient forces and deadly traps, designed to keep intruders out. Can you uncover the secret, unlock the chamber, and escape the depths before the tomb claims you too? 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE We appreciated that the game briefing took place in a dedicated room and was delivered via video. While AI-generated, it still felt more immersive than a lengthy monologue from a game master — a welcome, modern touch. Once the video concluded, we entered the game area — and were genuinely surprised. From the outside, you’d never guess the space could be so expansive and impressively themed. The setting evokes a Mayan or Aztec jungle temple, complete with lush foliage, stone textures, and dramatic lighting. The environment is not only well-decorated but also highly interactive. Players can expect to crawl, climb, and even slide through the space, with transitions between areas feeling like mini-adventures themselves. The puzzle design was a standout feature — highly tactile and varied, requiring coordination, dexterity, teamwork, and even a bit of luck. The non-linear structure ensures that larger teams stay engaged, with plenty of tasks to split up and tackle in parallel. Importantly, the puzzles felt thematically cohesive — their materials and mechanisms fitting the ancient, jungle-like atmosphere well and adding to the overall immersion. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK One minor drawback is that the game’s theme doesn’t entirely align with its narrative. The idea of discovering an Aztec-style temple beneath Karlsruhe stretches credibility. While the attempt to tie the story to the local area is understandable, it does introduce a small disconnect. That said, it didn’t significantly detract from our enjoyment. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? We’d definitely recommend this room for families and beginner teams. The physical nature of the puzzles and non-linear progression make it accessible and fun, especially for those new to escape rooms. However, experienced players shouldn’t dismiss it — while it leans more toward skill than cerebral challenge, the engaging environment and rewarding interactions make this an entertaining and memorable experience for all.. ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Parking is not available on site. However, street parking is available on the residential streets surrounding the escape room. There is a lobby area with comfortable seating and drinks for sale 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 Adventurebox Karlsruhe for providing us with a media discount for this game. Although a media discount was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #RyanDriver #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #Adventurebox #Adventure #Karlsruhe #Germany

LOCATION: Heilbronn, Germany Photo above is property of Exodus Heilbronn Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝    ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : End Times 📅 DATE PLAYED : June 29, 2025 🎬 GENRE : Apocalyptic 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl) : 6/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-6 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : 30-48 €/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes (33:00) 📖 THE STORY A blinding flash. A deafening roar. The mushroom cloud rises on the horizon—and you run. You sprint through the crumbling remains of an old building, the ground shaking beneath your feet. With seconds to spare, you find the steel door of a long-forgotten bunker and slam it shut behind you. For a moment, there's silence. You're safe. Or so you think. Suddenly, the oxygen alarm blares. Something’s wrong. The air is thinning fast, and the bunker door won’t budge. You're sealed inside… and time is running out. Can you restore the systems, find a way to the surface, and escape before your last breath runs out? 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE One of the best game introductions in recent memory. The gamemaster was witty and engaging, but it was the environment that stole the show. From thematic audio and programmed lighting—even the drinks fridge—everything worked together to immerse us. When the air raid siren sounded, we instinctively bolted for the bunker. Hilariously, while waiting for our next game, we watched the next group just sit there confused until the gamemaster had to usher them in. Safe to say, we were definitely in the mood for the experience. Stunning, high-quality set design. Endzeit is not just the most immersive game at Exodus—it's one of the most polished sets we’ve encountered in the region. While not the largest in footprint, it's packed with Cold War-era weapons, military gear, and vintage computer equipment. Everything is thoughtfully aged and installed to make the environment feel genuinely lived-in. It’s rare to see this level of dedication in creating an atmosphere. Satisfying and thematic ending. While it lacks a big “wow” effect, the finale is narratively fulfilling. As we brought the systems back online, we didn’t just get flashing lights—we heard and saw the big ventilation system come back to life. It’s these kinds of thoughtful details that leave a lasting impression. Best p uzzle design at Exodus. Every task felt meaningful and rooted in the story. The challenges naturally encouraged cooperation, especially important as a team of two. A nice bonus? We learned afterward that calling other hidden numbers from the in-game phone would trigger different responses—an easter egg we sadly missed, but a fantastic example of the game’s layered design. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK We escaped too quickly! This is more a compliment than a critique. We would have happily played longer and solved more puzzles. A slightly extended experience or bonus sequence would have been welcome. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? This is a must-play, no matter your experience level. For players who value story-driven games with puzzles that genuinely connect to the narrative, " Endzeit (End Times) " is well worth a dedicated trip to Heilbronn. The complete game loop, an energising intro, immersive gameplay, and a conclusive ending, makes this one of the strongest bunker/ apocalypse-style games we’ve ever played. ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Exodus is a centrally located location within walking distance from the train station. There is no dedicated car park, however there is plenty of parking within the city. There is a lobby area with comfortable seating and drinks for sale 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 Exodus Heilbronn for providing us with a media discount for this game. Although a media discount was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #RyanDriver #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #Apocalyptic #Exodus #Heilbronn #Germany

LOCATION: Sopot , Poland Photo above is property of Questrooms Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Frank & Stein 📅 DATE PLAYED : July 4, 2025 🎬 GENRE : Sci-Fi, Adventure 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl) : 6/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-4 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 80 Mins. 💰 PRICE : 250-330 PLN ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes [72:00] 📖 THE STORY Frank – driven by a thirst for power over life and death, a pioneer of transplantation, he never settled for creating ordinary inventions or traditional research. His hunger for power led him to experiments aimed at reviving dead tissues. Due to his unbridled ambition, during one of his attempts, he decided to sacrifice everything for science, even his own life. Stein – a brilliant inventor, always in the shadow of his brother. On one hand, he fascinated with his creativity, on the other hand, he caused concern with his unpredictable behavior and lack of inhibitions. The sole partner of Frank, the sole heir of his knowledge, the only person who knows what happened to Frank. After long months of solitary work and various experiments, Stein completely lost his way, which is why he placed advertisements on the front pages of the most popular newspapers, hoping to find volunteers who would help him reverse the terrible outcome of Frank’s experiment. When you come an advertisement regarding Frank and Stein’s laboratory in the newspaper, you know exactly what to do. 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE Technical elements work smoothly; The main object in the game looks fantastic and contains a number of puzzles; Strong interactive component with a significant role played by the Game Master; Well-balanced overall gameplay experience. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK Clearer visual or audio cues would be appreciated; The visible timer adds extra pressure and slightly breaks immersion. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? This is exactly the kind of escape room that’s likely to please everyone. There are plenty of puzzles, a smooth storyline, just the right amount of interactivity, and a pleasing atmosphere. It’s suitable for families and friend groups alike. Thanks to the game’s linear structure, you’ll always know what to focus on — just come, play, and enjoy a new adventure! ℹ️     ADDITIONAL INFO Free parking available, a lot free spots right in front of the building; Some physical strength required; Lobby with sitting area; Restroom available; Not wheelchair accessible; Drinking water available in the seating area; Not recommended for people with claustrophobia; Air conditioning. Photo above is property of Questrooms (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 "!) #PaulShyshou #IRLescaperoom   #EscapeRooms #Questrooms #Frankenstein #SciFi #Sopot #Poland

Escape One Algarve currently offers 2 remote escape rooms that you can play at home. Here are our thoughts on the individual games: Company: Escape One Algarve Country: Portugal 🇵🇹 Language: English, Portuguese Type of Games: Remote Escape Room 🗣 Date Played: 5/14/2020 Size of Team: 1-6 Devices Time: 60 Minutes Game:   Atlantis Genre:    Fantasy, Mission Difficulty (based on 4 players):     6/10 Price:    €60.00 We had the privilege to beta test "Atlantis" before it was released. The set design was quite immersive for a remote escape room. Right from the beginning, we felt like we entered the control center of a submarine and was greeted by the captain. There was a nice inventory list sent to us during the game that really helped us visualize the puzzles that were hard to see. This also allowed us to work on several puzzles simultaneously. The flow of the game was great and puzzles were all reasonable to the story. The puzzles were not really difficult but that's probably because we bought a strong team with us (#Escapeaddicts - around 1600 escape games played) and was able to complete the mission in about 38 minutes! We liked the underwater sensation and the vibrant colors that were added to create the atmosphere. If you listen carefully, you might hear even hear the dripping sounds of the water. Other than the avatar, there was another fun "character" that we didn't get to interact much with but if you guys have extra time left in the game, definitely have some fun with it! Game: The Laboratory Genre: Mission Difficulty (based on 5 players): 6.5/10 Price: €50.00 The "Lab" was the first remote escape room experience Escape One Algarve came out with. There was no inventory list in this room as they chose to keep it more original. We would've preferred to have one mainly because there were more reading materials here and it would have helped us to be able to refer back more easily. The camera for both games worked great with no shakiness or lag. (Update 5/27: The lab has since added an inventory list to their game). We felt that there were more puzzles to be solved in this one than "Atlantis". The difficulty level also went up a little. So if you enjoy a puzzle heavier one, you'll probably like this one more. There were a few cleverly designed puzzle that we thoroughly enjoyed. We love puzzles, so this game was right up our alley! *** "The Laboratory" can no longer be booked as a remote game but can still be booked as an in-person experience. "Atlantis" is no longer available. *** (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 Escape One Algarve for comping our tickets for this game. Although a complimentary experience was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #CiciCao #AtHomeGames #EscapeRooms # escapeonealgarve #a tlantis #ocean #submarine #underwater #Remote EscapeRoom #Avatar #TheLaboratory #TheLab

Photos provided by Escape One Algarve Escape One Algarve currently offers 3 remote escape rooms that you can play at home. So far we've tried "Atlantis" and "The Lab" (you can read our review HERE ). Below is our review on their newest game - "Final Call". Company: Escape One Algarve Game: Final Call Country: Portugal 🇵🇹 Language: English, Portuguese Type of Games: Remote Escape Room 🗣 Genre: Horror, Zombies Date Played: 8/30/2020 Difficulty (based on 2 players): 4.5/10 Size of Team: 1-6 Devices Time: 60 Minutes Price: €60.00/ game Whenever we play a remote game with Escape One Algarve, there's always a sense of improvement and this time was no different. This horror themed zombie escape room had a few moments of dark comedy as well. Hopefully we'll be able to laugh till the end and get onto that final flight to take us out of this nightmare! We were given a zoom link which was really only used for the introduction and the ending. The feed was clear throughout the game. Although the room had dim lighting, we were able to see everything quite well. The game was played over Telescape and it was the first time we saw that they were able to build in the live feed into the inventory portal. It would be easier if you duplicated a window for just the live feed and another for the inventory since toggling through them was confusing. This integration did allow them to have more control over the sound effects for the game. It definitely was an asset for the jump scare moments. The puzzles were medium level in terms of difficulty but we definitely complicated them a few times for ourselves. Our favorite puzzle was a physical one and this was actually quite difficult to do over Zoom. But Escape One Algarve was able to set it up in a way where the players felt like they were actually maneuvering it and not simply watching the avatar. The ending was a jaw-dropping moment for us. I guess you'll have to play it in order to find out why but boy were we glad we got onto that last flight! *** This game can no longer be booked as a remote game but can still be booked as an in-person experience *** (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 Escape One Algarve for comping our tickets for this game. Although a complimentary experience was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #CiciCao #AtHomeGames #EscapeRooms #escapeonealgarve #FinalCall #RemoteEscapeRoom #Avatar #Zombies #TheWalkingDead #ResidentEvil #Survival #ZombieApocalypse

LOCATION: Las Vegas, Nevada, USA Photo above is property of Lockdown Escape Rooms 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Project Poseidon 📅 DATE PLAYED : November 10, 2019 🎬 GENRE : Adventure, Sci-Fi 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl) : 8/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 3-10 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins 💰 PRICE : $35.00/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY We have been recruited by the Department of Metaphysical Enterprises to investigate works of Dr. Ian. He has created a machine and its classified as Top Secret operations. We need to find out what he’s working on as it may be an endangerment to earth. Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE The ceiling height was pretty high in this facility. This made the room feel really spacious. We felt like we were entering a spaceship.   The surprising turnover of events at the end created a fun ending. Enjoyable story line and it was entertaining to discover the development through the puzzles. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK One game piece was designed a bit too high for me (I’m 5 ft). It was not easy for me to see or reach. Perhaps a bit more enforcement on the “visual” would help. Since there was already a prop in the room that was utilized earlier in the game, it would be great to use that as a hint system to enhance the immersive experience. Not sure if there could be any add-ons, but if hidden elements could be implemented that could create some “wow” moments.   The walkie talkie was not working that well in the room. At times we couldn’t hear the hints. The hints could also be explained better from the game master. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? Be prepared to be good at Math! All jokes aside, this is probably the second hardest Math question I’ve seen in an escape room. Dr. Ian was definitely working on something complicated. This room needed a good amount of people if you haven’t done escape rooms before. It’s also semi-linear but the room is large enough for some exploration to be done individually. Our recommended size would be 4-5 people. You’ll enjoy this room if you want something challenging with a good storyline and making some tough decisions at the end!  🔎 HINT They may look similar, but they are different. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers *** We regret to inform you that this location has closed its doors ** Disclosure : We thank Lockdown Escape Rooms for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #CiciCao #review #escaperoomreviews #escaperooms #escape #rooms #games #lockdownescaperoomsflamingo #projectposeidon #lasvegas #nevada #nv #usa