Company: Bluefish Games Game: The Hincks Gazette - Boxed Set #1 (Vol. 1, Issues 2-6) Country: USA 🇺🇸 Language: English Type of Game: Tabletop Game 📬 Genre: M ystery Date Played: May 15, 2022 Difficulty (based on 2 players): 6/10 Size of Team: 1-2 ppl (Recommended) Time: Unlimited (Approx. 1-2 Hrs/ per issue) Price: $49.00 🆃🅷🅴 🆂🆃🅾🆁🆈 After having so much fun with the first issue (" The Curious Elevator of Mr. Hincks "), we were eager to get into this Gazette set. Each newsletter has a different story that happened in the town of Hicksville ranging from a talking plant to a space dinosaur. There are puzzles embedded within the articles and images. You'll need to figure them out in order to solve the final puzzle. 🆃🅷🅴 ❞🅻🅾🅾🅺🆂❞ The newspapers are printed on quality paper that doesn't tear easily and the fonts are also very clear and easy to read. The creators were really thoughtful and included two copies in each issue so that if you're playing with someone else, you don't have to fight over the issue. It also helped during the puzzle solving process as we didn't have to flip back and forth when a puzzle needed information from the front and back. In the box you'll also find some additional bonus items like a sticker, a pencil and a super cute pin! Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🆃🅷🅴 🅶🅰🅼🅴 🅿🅻🅰🆈 If you read through the paper carefully, you'll pick up subtle hints on where you should START. Although at times, we picked up hints that looked like clues and sometime solved a puzzle without following the path (it's probably best to do it the linear way). At times, we found that if we skipped the first puzzle and came back to it, the solution was useless at that point as it was actually giving us a hint on where to go next. If you're an experienced solver, you might run into this issue. But if you're just starting out, definitely follow the breadcrumbs that the creators are leaving for you and discover the surprises along the way. I loved that the clues and puzzles were embedded both in text and images. It was nice to be able to utilize them simultaneously in solving certain puzzles. NOTE: Each issue will only be asking you for one final answer which is just a word. You can't check the midpoint solutions but if you didn't get it right, you won't know what the next step is anyways. At this point you probably should just resort to the hint section. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🆃🅷🅴 🅿🆄🆉🆉🅻🅴🆂 Each of the issues had an average of 3-5 puzzles (pending on if you count some of the mini ones). Some we were able to solve in a single step and others were more challenging and required multiple steps. I love the fact that each issue mixed in a variety of puzzles. This is a great way for beginners to see all the different types of puzzles in one place. Some of our favorite ones consisted of word play, morse code, trivia, caeser shift, phonetic, math (don't be scared, it's not High School level, I promise), nonogram, etc. On average, we spent about 40-60 minutes on one issue. Of course it'll depend on if you use hints or not as well. But this is definitely our type of game as we love a quick brain exercise after a busy day of work but it won't drag on into the middle of the night either. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🅲🅻🅾🆂🅸🅽🅶 🆃🅷🅾🆄🅶🅷🆃🆂 One of my favorite things about this game is the humor in the storyline. Most of the people will hear gazette and think, "Oh my god, there's going to be so much reading"! But these gazettes were really enjoyable to read. Some of the puns in them really made us laugh out loud. Plus the topics were really intriguing. Who doesn't want to know more about a talking plant or trained carrier quails? And to add icing to the cake, if you're ever the first to solve their secret puzzle that they send out by email ( you'll need to sign up ), your name will appear in one of these gazettes! Whether you're a puzzle master or just starting out, I promise you this is going to be a fun adventure that will leave you wanting more. Good news is that "The Hincks Gazette Boxed Set #2 (Vol. 1, Issues 7-12)" is in the works and we can't wait to get them and hopefully it'll be delivered by the Hinksville quails! Check out our interview with the creators to understand more on the development side of these game: (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 Bluefish Games for providing us with a sample of their game. Although a complimentary experience was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #CiciCao #AtHomeGames #TabletopGames #PuzzlesByMail #SubscriptionGames #Mystery #BluefishGames #USA

Company :    Bluefish Games Game :   The Curious Stairs of Mr. Hincks Language :    English Country :   USA 🇺🇸 Type of Game :    Puzzles By Mail 📬 Genre :    Fun, Adventure Time :    Unlimited Size of Team :    Unlimited Date Played :     August 15, 2020 Price :    $17.00 Yippee! We've longed for another game from Bluefish Games after playing their " The Curious Elevator of Mr. Hincks " and now it's finally here! "The Curious Stairs of Mr. Hincks" is a prequel to "The Curious Elevator of Mr. Hincks" but you can play them in any order since there's no actual story or puzzle connection with each other. We're always mesmerized by the contents in their puzzle boxes. This one was no different. They are always very vibrant in color with many types of clue/info pieces for us to discover. More importantly, there's always going to be something in there that'll make you wonder: "What's this for?" We love how they are able use a simple "tool" like paper (in various forms like cardboard, newspaper, flyers, etc.) to convey their messages and to create unexpected "wow" moments for the players. This puzzle box had the same instructions as the elevator game. There's an online portal that you'll be able to enter solutions and receive hints on. Since the goal is to climb your way to the Hincks Hall of Fame, a password is required to pass each level of the stairs. This makes each puzzle on each stair level seem like their own mini puzzle. We quite like this type of game design. In this game, you'll encounter a pizza store, video game, "magic", and perhaps even some origami? the game design is very clean and has a nice flow to it. It keeps the energy of the players going since every a puzzle was completed, a new portal will open up and all the puzzles/story in the next level are all fresh material. As escape room enthusiasts first, our mentality for difficult puzzles/ciphers are probably not on the same level as some hardcore puzzlers out there. Bluefish games' puzzle designs give us that vibe of playing an escape room in their game through association of clues, searching, and finally putting everything together for that final victory moment. If you are looking to get a feel on Bluefish Games', you might want to start with this one first since there are less puzzles and you can familiarize the rules of the game. This doesn't mean that this is the easier game, (we actually felt that this was the more difficult one) it'll just act as the lure that'll instantly make you want to purchase their stair game after. Now that we're done with the stairs, we are back to longing again...Bluefish Games, please take me to "escalator" soon! Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers Check out our interview with the creators to understand more on the development side of the game: (If you do decide to try this book, please remember to let them know that you heard it from" ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure : We thank Bluefish Games for providing us with samples of their game. Although complimentary experience was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #CiciCao #AtHomeGames #TabletopGames #PuzzlesByMail # BluefishGames #TheCuriousStairsofMrHincks #Fun #Adventure #USA

Company : Bluefish Games Game : The Curious Elevator of Mr. Hincks Language : English Country : USA 🇺🇸 Type of Game : Puzzles By Mail 📬 Genre : Fun, Adventure Time : Unlimited Size of Team : Unlimited Date Played : June 4, 2020 Price : $35.00 Up, up we go! "The Curious Elevator of Mr. Hincks" was easily one of our favorite "puzzle by mail" category winners. You'll receive a whole bunch of goodies in the mail. I felt like a kid that just received a Christmas present with never ending surprises. This was a well thought-out game. Even a pencil was provided for us! The puzzles started on the bottom floor of the elevator and as we went up, each floor had a different puzzle. Once we had a solution, we needed to enter it on their website. As we slowly (some puzzles were quite puzzling, but we loved it) ascended up the floors, more magic appeared. We constantly asked each other: "How did they think of that ? Wow that was clever..." Every item in the package had their own special "place" in the puzzles. The creators of "The Curious Elevator of Mr. Hincks" are a lovely coupon that loves to create and solve puzzles. You can feel the passion and love they devoted to the game. The newspaper was actually printed on newspaper stock. The business cards looked like real business cards. The fonts used were carefully selected. They personally print each and every one of these puzzle packs for you. For the value, you know they are not out there to become rich but mainly to provide the players with joy and of course to show off their puzzle making skills. The biggest selling point for us was that the puzzles all make sense! These days, It's quite difficult for us to finish a game without asking the words: "But why? Why did they do that?" We were the lucky #100 to make the leader board for "The Curious Elevator of Mr. Hincks"! If you felt like you didn't get enough of this game, make sure to sign up for their monthly "Gazette" (which is a newspaper page full of various puzzles). We just tried their May issue and was hooked. And if that's still not enough, then sign up to receive their email and every week you'll get a free puzzle to solve. If you are lucky enough to make it to their 1st place on the leader board then your name will appear in the next month's "Gazette"! How cool is that?! Don't get too excited as we'll be fighting to get that spot as well! P.S. You can replay this game or gifted if you don't write on the game sheets. There's one sheet that will probably need to be replaced and the creators have thought of this as well and have included that in the game for you. Now the value just doubled! Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers Check out our interview with the creators to understand more on the development side of the game: (If you do decide to try this game, please remember to let them know that you heard it from" ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure : We thank Bluefish Games for providing us with samples of their game. Although complimentary experience was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #CiciCao #AtHomeGames #TabletopGames #PuzzlesByMail #BluefishGames #TheCuriousElevatorofMrHincks #Fun #Adventure #USA

LOCATION: Sion, Switzerland Photo above is property of Escape World Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝 ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME: Le Caveau du Diable 📅 DATE PLAYED: March 8, 2026 🎬 GENRE: Mystery 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 5 ppl): 7/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS: 2-12 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME: 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE: 149 CHF - 339 CHF ☎️ BOOKING TYPE: Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED?: Yes [42:00] 📖 THE STORY Legend says that in the year 381, St. Theodulus, the first Bishop of Sion, returned from Rome carrying two precious gifts: the vine shoots that would one day shape Valais, and a sacred bell from the Pope. What no one saw was the Devil himself, tricked into hauling the heavy bell for the Saint. Knowing that the Evil One would be freed upon his death, Theodulus trapped him in a hidden vault. Today, your escape room takes place in that very cellar—one of the oldest in Valais—where the Saint’s ancient prison may not be as silent as it seems. 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE Incredible use of the historic location: The room sits inside one of the oldest buildings in Sion, and you genuinely feel it—creaking wooden floors, narrow staircases, thick ancient stone walls, and a beautifully uneven cobbled cellar. The setting alone boosts immersion before the game even starts. Authentic props add depth: The space is filled with old, almost antique objects that you can touch, lift, and inspect. Nothing feels like cheap decoration; everything looks like it has a story. This really enhances the room’s exploratory nature. Great split start: Beginning with part of the team upstairs and the rest in the courtyard was a clever mechanic. Communication was easy across the areas, and discovering a unique way to pass items between the two spaces was a fun moment. Large, nonlinear play space: The game area is spacious, and the nonlinear puzzle flow keeps everyone involved—ideal for bigger groups that like to wander and explore. Search-heavy but purposeful puzzles: While the puzzles lean toward searching and observation, many use meaningful prop manipulation and placement. The environment rewards paying close attention, and many clues are hidden in plain sight, making the searching feel intentional rather than filler. A satisfying, grounded ending: Though not packed with special effects or dramatic reveals, the final puzzle’s location and the small triggered effect created a simple but fitting conclusion. It felt earned and thematically consistent. Well-suited for larger or less experienced teams: Because the puzzles aren’t overly complex and the space is expansive, teams of five or six can play comfortably without stepping on each other. Great for groups looking for involvement over difficulty spikes. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK Story–puzzle disconnect: The narrative doesn’t tie strongly into the puzzles. Much of the game feels like collecting a series of objects to be used later, rather than progressing through story-driven challenges. Limited puzzle depth: With an emphasis on searching and observation, the game lacks multi-step or layered logic puzzles. More experienced teams might crave some “crunchier” tasks to sink their teeth into. Slow burn pacing: Because most progress centers around finding items rather than solving intricate chains, the momentum can feel a bit gradual until the final section. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? Perfect for beginners or larger groups who want to stay involved without the pressure of advanced logic puzzles. Experienced teams may prefer coming with fewer players to ensure they see everything happening, though our group of five still managed to keep each other in the loop. If you appreciate immersion and atmosphere, this room shines, its setting is its greatest strength, and it delivers one of the most authentic escape room environments in the region. We left with the feeling that this is possibly the best escape room in Sion and the surrounding area, not for its puzzle complexity, but for how well it transports you into the world it’s built inside. ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO There is no on-site parking available. The game is located in the middle of the old town. Car parks are available within a short walking distance of about 5 minutes. There is a small briefing area with a couple of chairs and lockers to store your belongings and a TV to watch the well-produced intro videos. 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 Escape World for providing a media discount on the tickets for this game. Although discounted admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion of the review whatsoever. #RyanDriver #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #EscapeWorld #Mystery #Sion #Switzerland

LOCATION: Minsk, Belarus Photo above is property of Old Mouse 📝 ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME: Sherlock Holmes vs. Moriarty 📅 DATE PLAYED: March 4, 2026 🎬 GENRE: Thriller, Detective 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 5 ppl): 7/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS: 2-5 ppl (ages 10+) 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME: 65 Mins. 💰 PRICE: 145-265 BYN/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE: Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED?: Yes 📖 THE STORY Today, amid a series of mysterious crimes, the great and world-famous private detective Sherlock Holmes has followed a trail that led him to Professor Moriarty. In an attempt to lure him into a trap, he ended up falling into Moriarty’s hands. With Dr. Watson and Sherlock’s brother away, it is now up to you to take on this case. Will you manage to complete the mission? Or will this become the first and only unsolved case of the legendary detective? Video above is property of Old Mouse 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE An engaging detective storyline — it unfolds in a compelling way, gradually revealing details and forming a complete picture. Excellent atmosphere — well-designed locations, high-quality lighting and sound, and strong immersion. Well-integrated puzzles — most of the challenges are organically woven into the story and environment. Varied and sometimes original puzzles — a mix of simple tasks and genuinely challenging, unexpected solutions. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK Some puzzles take too long to complete — the logic is clear, but the execution can be time-consuming. Occasional hints toward other puzzles — sometimes you are guided toward tasks you would prefer to figure out on your own. Uneven pacing — due to the “long” puzzles, the flow of the game can occasionally slow down. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? A very solid, high-quality game. The atmosphere, puzzles, and plot are all at the highest level. If you enjoy detective stories and want to play something visually appealing yet challenging, this game is a great choice. ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Free parking, but can be busy during weekdays Lobby with a seating area Toilet available Water available This game includes a live actor Photos above are property of Old Mouse (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 #OldMouse #Thriller #Detective #Minsk #Belarus

LOCATION: Minsk, Belarus Photo above is property of Contrast Quest 📝 ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME: Autobiography of a Red 📅 DATE PLAYED: March 4, 2026 🎬 GENRE: Thriller, Detective 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 5 ppl): 5/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS: 2-6 ppl (ages 12+) 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME: 70 Mins. 💰 PRICE: 120-240 BYN/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE: Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED?: Yes 📖 THE STORY A series of murders that has shaken the city has forced the special task force to work around the clock. “He took his brother’s life and turned his love into a tortured shadow. She belongs to him, yet she never chose him.” Your task is to find connections in a case with no direct evidence — but with hostages whose lives hang in the balance. “Are you here from Lieutenant General Nikulin?” Yesenia asks. “Come in.” I hope you are ready for a journey into the mind of a mad genius. This is a surreal labyrinth where logic collapses and colors turn into emotions. His mind is a chessboard where every piece plays its part. You are the pawns, swept from the board with a single movement of his hand. Checkmate. He is always one step ahead. Do you really think you can outplay him? The stakes are high. Are you ready to take the color red literally? 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE A strong and unusual storyline — an intriguing story about the rise of a serial killer that gradually unfolds through audio recordings, scenes with actors, and notes. Excellent acting— the characters are vivid and emotional, and the actors fully immerse themselves in their roles.. Large locations and solid technical execution— spacious rooms, well-designed lighting, and sound that help create a strong atmosphere. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK Not a very scary experience — the game feels more like a story-driven performance than an intense horror experience. Some character clichés — the images of the killer and the victim resemble typical horror and escape-room tropes. Some locations feel a bit empty or unclear — due to the large space, certain rooms seem under-decorated or not fully utilized. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? An interesting and distinctive project with a strong story and great acting. The game impresses more with its narrative and atmosphere than with pure fear. It is best suited for fans of detective stories, true crime, and story-driven performances. ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Free parking, but can be busy during weekdays Lobby with a seating area Toilet available Water available This game includes a live actor Photos above are property of Contrast Quest (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 #ContrastQuest #Thriller #Detective #Minsk #Belarus

LOCATION: Minsk, Belarus Photo above is property of QuestHouse 📝 ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME: Grave Diggers 📅 DATE PLAYED: March 4, 2026 🎬 GENRE: Horror 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 4 ppl): 3/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS: 2-6 ppl (ages 14+) 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME: 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE: 130-180 BYN/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE: Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED?: Yes 📖 THE STORY You are a team of stalkers. Your guide is a legendary paranormal hunter from the show "Grave Encounters." Today, you are infiltrating the Institute for Mental Correction—a place where doctors didn't heal, they crippled. People have been disappearing here since 1972. The walls remember screams. And now… there's someone here. Every hour, an old guard—deaf, blind, but monstrously precise—opens the doors briefly. Hurry to go deeper... or hide. Because if he finds you, the doors will close. Forever. Video above is property of QuestHouse 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE A high level of acting and performance — strong scenes, effective jump scares, and great use of lighting, as well as the appearance and disappearance of characters. An interesting and easy-to-follow storyline — the plot unfolds through notes, scenes with the actors and the guide, and includes an unexpected twist at the end. A solid overall quality of the project — the game is scary and dynamic, with action and individual tasks; the service and execution are on par with other Quest House projects. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK The scare mechanics and movement elements feel familiar — many solutions repeat ideas from the team’s previous projects. Not many memorable locations — some rooms are designed more for quick transitions, and a few can only be seen during individual tasks. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? The game is wow! This project, like the other projects by Quest House, is definitely worth playing. It will be both fun and scary, and you are guaranteed to receive a service of the highest level. However, if you have already completed the four previous projects by these wonderful creators, the new game probably won’t surprise you too much. And that’s neither good nor bad — it’s simply a fact. Just like when you buy a can of Coca-Cola, you always get the same familiar taste. And that certainly doesn’t stop you from enjoying it. ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Free parking, but can be busy during weekdays Lobby with a seating area Toilet available Water available Photos above are property of QuestHouse (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 #QuestHouse #Horror #Minsk #Belarus

Photo above is property of Puzzling Pursuits Company: Puzzling Pursuits Game: Down The Rabbit Hole Country: USA 🇺🇸 Language: English Type of Game: Tabletop Games 📬 Genre: Fantasy Date Played: February 6, 2026 Difficulty (based on 2 players): 6/10 Size of Team: Unlimited (Recommend 1-6 ppl) Time: Unlimited (Approx. 2-4 hrs) Price: $29.95 🆃🅷🅴 🆂🆃🅾🆁🆈 Explore the captivating chaos of Wonderland, filled with riddles, mysteries, and unusual characters. Navigate the Croquet Grounds, Mushroom Grove, and Royal Court, solving puzzles to bring order to this topsy-turvy realm. As you progress, the path home becomes clearer. Will you unravel Wonderland's mysteries, or will its madness ensnare you? The clock is ticking—your adventure starts now! 🆃🅷🅴 ❞🅻🅾🅾🅺🆂❞ The game arrived in a beautifully illustrated box depicting Alice falling down the rabbit hole. Inside, there is an introductory envelope containing a letter addressed to "Dear Friend," along with six "Door envelopes" and a finale envelope marked with "Open When Instructed." Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🆃🅷🅴 🅶🅰🅼🅴 🅿🅻🅰🆈 As a solo player or with friends, you can expect to spend approximately 1.5 to 3 or more hours on this activity; our experience took about 2 hours. There is no time limit, and it's convenient to resume where you left off, as each clue and solution is accessible via its own webpage. Begin by reading the "Dear Friend" letter, and then proceed to open any "Door" envelope at your discretion. You can approach the puzzles individually or by dividing tasks among participants. Once you have a solution, verify its accuracy on the designated website. If correct, you will receive a "congratulations" message along with some backstory to continue. Should you encounter difficulties, gradual hints are available to assist you. After solving all the puzzles, you can open the final envelope, which presents a concluding challenge before your celebration. Additionally, there is a "Enhance your game night" guide providing suggestions for food, drinks, and music to complement your gameplay. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🆃🅷🅴 🅿🆄🆉🆉🅻🅴🆂 We greatly appreciate the variety of puzzle types incorporated into this game. Some puzzles were primarily visual, while others required more time and were based on logic. Among our favorites were those that allowed us to use props included in the game, such as a clock decoder and overlay sheets, and even provided the opportunity to construct a gadget ourselves. The solving processes were all gratifying, and most importantly, they aligned perfectly with the "Alice in Wonderland" theme. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🅲🅻🅾🆂🅸🅽🅶 🆃🅷🅾🆄🅶🅷🆃🆂 We took this game with us on a cruise ship, and it was an absolute hit! It was so captivating that we attracted a large crowd of curious onlookers who kept asking what we were playing and where they could get their hands on a copy. The game's envelopes were super easy to carry around, and you only need minimal WIFI (or you can even print the solution and hints ahead of time) to dive into the fun. The graphics were really vibrant and perfectly complemented the clues to crack the puzzles. The props included in the game were a blast to handle, and there was one discovery that truly amazed us and delivered a "Wow" moment. Whether you're playing solo or with friends, this game is a must-try. If you're eager to uncover what we found "Down the Rabbit Hole," you'll need to explore it on your own! (If you do decide to try this game, please remember to let them know that you heard it from" ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure : We thank Puzzling Pursuits for providing us with a sample of their game. Although a complimentary experience was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #CiciCao #AtHomeGames #TabletopGames #PuzzlesByMail #SubscriptionGames #PuzzlingPursuits #Fantasy #Adventure #USA

LOCATION: Westbury, New York, USA Photo above is property of RYCO's Escape Room & Lounge Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝 ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME: Asylum 📅 DATE PLAYED: February 15, 2026 🎬 GENRE: Horror 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 5 ppl): 7/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS: 2-8 ppl (Ages 13+) 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME: 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE: $45.00/ pp (Min. 2 ppl) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE: Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED?: Yes 📖 THE STORY The State of New York has hired you and your demolition team to demolish building 93 at the Kings Park Psychiatric Center. This building was once managed by the renowned psychiatrist Dr. Sheehan, who disappeared mysteriously over ten years ago. After setting a one-hour timer on the charges, you need to inspect the building. While ascending to the top floor, where Dr. Sheehan's office was located, you realize you're not alone. Discover the activities in the "abandoned" asylum and escape before the explosives detonate! ​ Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE The Game Master excelled in setting the stage with an intriguing pregame storyline and immersing us in the unsettling atmosphere of the elevator. The incorporation of how to input the solutions was innovative, deviating from the conventional lock and key approach. The mechanism that transported us effectively delivered a special effect, blurring the line between reality and illusion for us. While there weren't many jump-scare moments, those included were executed skillfully. We felt that dimmer lighting could have further enhanced the effect. The creators structured the game like chapters in a horror TV series, with each chapter offering unique puzzles that engaged different senses. This aspect was particularly enjoyable. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK A particular audio clue was repeated during the game. Its initial use did not seem to lead to a solution, which caused some confusion, while the second instance was relevant to solving a puzzle. Perhaps use two different songs? A visual clue presented in the latter part of the game was unclear, as it suggested the possibility of more inputs than those actually available. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? When it comes to escape room set design, we absolutely love the eerie and horror themes! Even though I'm a total scaredy-cat and prefer no live actors, there's just something irresistibly thrilling about horror movies and that spine-chilling vibe that draws me in. Deep down, I'm thinking, "Are you crazy? Why would you want to step into a pitch-dark room?" But The Asylum had me hooked right from the start with its "inviting" elevator. Once you're in, there's no turning back! Having a group made it a bit easier, as everyone contributed to balancing out the scare factor. And this isn't just any scary adventure—there's an intriguing storyline woven into the asylum that unfolds as you progress. That's why we loved it so much! How do you know it's an amazing game? It's when you feel like, even after you've escaped, something has escaped with you... Do you dare to enter The Asylum? ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Located within the Samanea New York Mall Go up one flight of escalator, and the venue will be on your right Complimentary parking is available outside the mall The venue offers a selection of food and beverages, including alcoholic options Lockers equipped with charging ports are available Lobby features seating and games The venue hosts various events such as board game nights and trivia nights. Please contact them for specific dates and times Certain parts of this game will be played in the dark 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 RYCO's Escape Room & Lounge 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 #RYCOsEscapeRoom #Adventure #Westbury #NewYork #USA

LOCATION: Minsk, Belarus Photo above is property of QuestHub 📝 ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME: S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Heart of the Zone 📅 DATE PLAYED: March 4, 2026 🎬 GENRE: Thriller 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 3 ppl): 2/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS: 2-6 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME: 70 Mins. 💰 PRICE: 100-210 BYN/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE: Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED?: Yes 📖 THE STORY The Zone is no place for the weak. Here, everything alive either hunts or hides. And those who believe in luck have long since rotted in the craters of anomalies. But there are stories that won’t let go. They say that at the very heart of the Zone lies an artifact capable of changing fate. Some are ready to kill for it, others would rather parish than let it fall into the wrong hands.. You have made your choice and stepped beyond the Perimeter. Now it is up to you who to trust and who to fear and what price you are willing to pay for a chance to reach your goal. But remember – in the Zone, every step could be your last. 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE A strong storyline with the illusion of choice — multiple paths, different ways to progress, and branching endings. Excellent acting — the actors adapt well to players, improvise effectively, and maintain the storyline. Atmospheric setting and a large play area — detailed locations that create the feeling of a “living” Zone. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK The ending depends on your choices but may feel weaker — there’s a chance of getting a less impactful finale. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? In my humble opinion, this is a top-tier game created by people who truly love what they do. Game setting and scenery are wonderful and captivating. The setting and scenery are wonderful and captivating. It was scary, it was fun, and never boring. The actors are what truly bring the game to life, and the constant improvisation on both sides makes this escape room unique. No two games will ever be the same. I strongly recommend it. ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Free parking, but can be busy during weekdays Lobby with a seating area Toilet available Water available Photos above are property of QuestHub (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 #QuestHub #Thriller #Minsk #Belarus

LOCATION: Las Vegas, Nevada, USA Photo above is property of Red Door Escape Room (Las Vegas) Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝 ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME: Lost Treasures 📅 DATE PLAYED: February 10, 2026 🎬 GENRE: Fantasy 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 4 ppl): 4/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS: Up to 6 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME: 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE: $39.95/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE: Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED?: Yes 📖 THE STORY The tales of the underwater city of Mythos are true! In this digital adventure, discover three fragments of an ancient tablet revealing the city's location. Beware of fearsome creatures guarding these fragments. Navigate the perilous underwater labyrinth, defeat the guardians, and uncover Mythos's mysteries! Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE The set design is an expertly crafted submarine, featuring multiple stations that manage elements such as weapons, steering, and air. This game is perfect for large groups, as each player has a distinct role at their station and remains actively engaged throughout the experience. The moments when on-screen interactions provided physical prop pieces in the room enhanced immersion, showcasing a different design than a typical escape room. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK Once you're assigned a job or station, you'll pretty much remain there consistently. You'll become familiar with your station, but you might miss out on the broader game settings. Some players might find this repetitive. We felt that we weren't solving puzzles; instead, we were following instructions and completing tasks. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? For some escape room enthusiasts, this game might not feel like a traditional escape room. It exudes more of a video game vibe. One of our players took charge of controlling the ship from the central helm area, while the rest of us dashed to various stations, mostly sticking to those nearby. Although I wasn't sure what my teammate was doing across the room, he knew exactly what needed to be done to accomplish the task. Some players may favor this type of "instructional" gameplay, and it certainly incorporates elements of collaboration. However, in terms of the puzzles we typically encounter in escape rooms, this game was lacking. I believe this room will receive mixed reviews based on individual preferences for gameplay style, but one thing is certain: it was exhilarating to navigate the waters, defeat mythical creatures, and achieve our final victory! ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Lobby with waiting area and merchandise and water for sale Located on the second floor with access of elevator, escalator or stairs The closest parking is at the Paris/Horseshoe. The structure is $20 (Mon-Wed) and $25 (Thurs-Sun). Locals get 3 hours of free parking with their state ID. 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 Red Door Escape Room (Las Vegas) for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion of the review whatsoever. #CiciCao #IRLEscapeRoom #EscapeRooms #RedDoorEscapeRoom #Fantasy #Nevada #USA

LOCATION: Las Vegas, Nevada, USA Photo above is property of The Escape Game Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝 ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME: Ruins: Forbidden Treasure 📅 DATE PLAYED: February 10, 2026 🎬 GENRE: Adventure 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 6 ppl): 6.5/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS: Up to 8 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME: 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE: $49.99/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE: Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED?: Yes 📖 THE STORY You've narrowly escaped a plane crash and arrived in the Wei-nu jungle, home to the enigmatic Ehlari Ruins. Within these ancient stones lies a legendary treasure, long sought by adventurers. Will you brave the perils, explore hidden chambers, outsmart traps, and claim the fortune? Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE The set design brilliantly captured the essence of being trapped in a jungle, seamlessly integrating with the storyline that transitioned from a plane crash to a trek through the jungle, culminating in the discovery of the sacred temple. The puzzle, while involving repeated actions, was ingeniously crafted to avoid monotony, thanks to its unique reveals. An animatronics moment gave me goosebumps, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. This stands out as the most unforgettable moment in the game. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK We identified several tech issues in the game that could have been effectively replaced with more relevant props or solutions. Currently it felt like it's taken away from the game's immersion. The ending would have been more impactful with a larger prop reveal or celebration. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? We experienced this game remotely during COVID, and witnessing the set design in person was truly astonishing. I vividly remember the impressive size of the set, even though the Vegas location was smaller than the online version we played in Nashville. Nevertheless, it still felt like a movie set. This game is perfect for players who love jungle adventures and engaging storylines. The game featured an fun intro video that immersed us in the narrative, drawing us deeper into the jungle and the tale of the Ehlari Ruins, ultimately leading to its treasure. While the finale could have been more grand, we thoroughly enjoyed our journey. Are you ready to embark on your "Indiana Jones" adventure? ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Located within the Area 15 complex. The nearest parking is Zone 2, which is free for Nevada residents with Nevada plates, while visitors from out of town pay a small fee. Street parking is available at no charge for all visitors, provided it's not marked with red lines. The lobby features seating and a fun wheel game where you can win prizes. Take the elevator upstairs to the games. Merchandise is available for purchase. 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 Escape Game Las Vegas 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 #Adventure #TheEscapeGame #USA #LasVegas #Nevada

LOCATION: Kloten, Switzerland Photo above is property of Next Level Escape Room Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Secret Tales 📅 DATE PLAYED : May 30, 2024 🎬 GENRE : Fantasy 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl) : 5/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-6 ppl (Ages 16+) 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 90 Mins. 💰 PRICE : CHF 230 (Flat fee) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes [68:50] 📖 THE STORY Inspired by the fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm: A dark mist hangs over the time when the sky was green and the wine was blue. In these long-forgotten times, where the boundaries between reality and nightmare are blurred, your dark journey through the eerie fairy-tale worlds begins. Behind the creaking doors of this old hut lurk secrets that make your heart race. Enter a world where witches and wizards play their evil games and magic unfolds its dark power. But be careful! Only those who recognize the boundary between illusion and reality can escape the evil curse and find their way back to sober reality. 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE This room is all about immersive storytelling, as we partake in a journey that touches on numerous fairytales and stories. The game’s goal isn’t immediately obvious as the game begins; we would only learn what it was several minutes later. From that point the goal remains the same, and although there are no twists or unexpected occurrences with the story, the way it unfolds is captivating. Along the journey we are lucky enough to meet several familiar characters, that both help and hinder our progress towards achieving our goal (sorry, no spoilers). Although I wouldn’t classify the characters as being actor-led, they are interactive and whimsical; further deepening your level of immersion. The game’s biggest success is certainly the way it looks and feels. The décor is rustic and thematic, with authentic props that lend themselves perfectly to the fairytale world. Integrated within the set’s construction are numerous lighting and sound special effects that are triggered at just the right moments. I remember thinking, midway through, how clever the effects are because they almost dictate the pace of the game, acting as a kind of buffer, preventing you from going too fast and almost forcing you to pause from time to time, allowing you to appreciate and soak up the atmosphere around you. The place is bursting with things to see and touch, so these moments were appreciated and calming. When summarizing the puzzles, words such as amusing, light-hearted, or simply ‘fun’, spring to mind. This is a game that does not take itself too seriously and you will realize this with almost every task you are asked to do. There are of course, still elements of deduction and logical, and searching involved, but nothing that detracts from the story or theme. A small thing, but worthy of praise, nonetheless… padding! The game does involve a small amount of crawling on a couple of occasions and it was great to see that they had padded the flooring, so no sore knees for me! 🧩 MISSED THE MARK This is an almost perfect game for us, we loved so much about it. However, the only thing that falls short is the lack of any truly cooperative puzzles. I believe it would be possible to actually complete this game solo. We always like to have some elements that require us to cooperate and communicate effectively to solve puzzles, and whilst there are moments to collaborate, they aren’t actually essential to the game play. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? Deciding whether to play the game is straightforward — of course, you should! The real question is how to approach it, especially given the hefty price tag of 230 CHF, regardless of your group size. To make the best decision, you'll need to balance the cost against your desired in-game experience. Group Size and Cost: **Two/Three Players** Costs 115/77 CHF per person. This setup ensures a more intimate experience, allowing players to fully engage with the game and solve puzzles without feeling cramped or rushed. **Four to Six Players** Bringing more people can further reduce the individual cost, but this may impact the quality of your experience. Larger groups might find the rooms crowded and the puzzles less engaging due to limited participation opportunities. **Our Experience** We opted to play as a duo and found this to be an excellent choice. The game's smaller room sizes and straightforward puzzles were well-suited to two players, allowing us to enjoy a fully immersive and cooperative experience without feeling overwhelmed or constrained. Ultimately, you need to decide what matters more to you: minimizing cost or maximizing your in-game experience. If you value a more personal and engaging experience, smaller groups are the way to go, even if it means paying a bit more per person. If budget is your primary concern, larger groups can help reduce individual costs, but be prepared for a potentially less immersive experience. Photos above are property of Next Level Escape Room ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Free parking is available on site There is a lobby area with comfortable seating and drinks available for purchase. The escape room is actually connected to a bar, which was no open at the time of our visit. The bar area is very large and well designed. Players are required to wear the provided slippers throughout the game, so make sure to bring socks with you. I do believe the slippers are washed after each wearing. Game language: German or English 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 "!) Disclosure : We thank Next Level Escape Room for providing a media discount on the tickets for this game. Although discounted admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion of the review whatsoever. #RyanDriver #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #NextLevelEscapeRoom #Fantasy #Kloten #Switzerland

LOCATION: Amersfoort, Netherlands Photo above is property of Rock City Escape Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Soup Du Jour 📅 DATE PLAYED : May 18, 2023 🎬 GENRE : Thriller 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 3 ppl) : 6/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-6 ppl (Ages 15+) 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 75 Mins. 💰 PRICE : €155/Group ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes (35:01) 📖 THE STORY Nuns are disappearing from the monastery, but at the same time the newly opened restaurant, Le Monastere, is growing in reputation, even gaining its first Michelin star. Chef Gaston Boucher is known for his secrets and his bad temper, so make sure you don’t upset him during your visit. Can you explore the restaurant and investigate the links behind Gaston and the missing nuns? Video above is property of Rock City Escape 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE The design and construction of the restaurant is to a high standard, featuring a lot of rooms which are all thematically decorated. The story is prevalent throughout, providing an immersive experience with special effects that wow and impress. The puzzles fit the theme and have a logical flow. We always appreciate puzzles that require more than one team member to complete, and this room has several of those. There are numerous elements of searching that allow you to spend more time appreciating the set design. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK There’s not too much to dislike in this room. As an experienced team we might have appreciated more challenging puzzles, but that is a personal preference. The chef is situated in a couple of the rooms, but only on a TV screen. The effect of his presence was therefore lost quite quickly. One way to elevate the experience and to heighten the tension would be to have a live actor. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? This is a game which has a high level of synergy between the story and the puzzles, so despite its relative level of ease, it should satisfy all levels of experience. Players will love the level of immersion and enjoy the thrilling special effects. ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Free parking available on site There is lobby with seating area Wide selection of drinks available for purchase This game can be played in English & Dutch 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 Rock City Escape for providing a media discount on the tickets for this game. Although discounted admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion of the review whatsoever. #RyanDriver #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #RockCityEscape #Thriller #Amersfoort #Netherlands

LOCATION: Amersfoort, Netherlands Photo above is property of Rock City Escape Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Poppet 📅 DATE PLAYED : May 18, 2023 🎬 GENRE : Thriller 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 3 ppl) : 7/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-6 ppl (Ages 15+) 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 90 Mins. 💰 PRICE : €165/Group ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes (53:00) 📖 THE STORY There seems to be something strange about Amy’s doll, which was buried in a shallow grave. But now you have discovered it and opened the bag, you must find a way to dampen its evil energy. Video above is property of Rock City Escape 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE The game takes place in an old monastery, like the other games at Rock City Escape, which provides legitimacy and immersion to the story. We were greeted by the school’s Headmaster who escorted us to our room and disciplined us for being unruly students. The actor did a great job staying in character and responding on point to our humor. A tense atmosphere is present, though it is not one of horror, but one of suspense, with the occasional scare to keep the adrenaline flowing. We found the puzzles to be very thematic and particularly enjoyed those which required teamwork to complete. We loved how they took us on a journey through many parts of the monastery, including a brief stint outside. The ending was well done and successfully closed the story loop, we exited with a smile on our faces. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK Being an experienced team, we might have appreciated more complexity to the puzzles. Several of them used very basic logic to complete, making it occasionally feel like a room for beginners. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? This is one of the top-rated rooms in the Netherlands and definitely worth playing, no matter what level you are. Advanced teams should find the puzzles simple to complete but the immersion and role playing will still provide a fantastic experience. ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Free parking available on site There is lobby with seating area Wide selection of drinks available for purchase This game can be played in English & Dutch 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 "!) Disclosure : We thank Rock City Escape for providing a media discount on the tickets for this game. Although discounted admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion of the review whatsoever. #RyanDriver #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #RockCityEscape #Thriller #Amersfoort #Netherlands