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LOCATION : Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Photo above is property of The Best Medicine Productions 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : The Sherlock Holmes Experience 📅 DATE PLAYED : August 19, 2023 🎬 GENRE : Mystery 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 4 ppl) : 4/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : Unlimited (Recommended 1-4 ppl) 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : Unlimited (Recommended 60 Mins) 💰 PRICE : $ 18 CAD/ pp (Adult), $16 CAD/ pp (Students/Seniors) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Public 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 🆃🅷🅴 🆂🆃🅾🆁🆈 The game is afoot after the Prince of Romania is ousted from his throne. A plan is made to sneak him to safety in Liverpool but there is a spy in the Circus aiming to kill the prince. Can you find the clues, decode the messages, and expose the spy to save the prince? It's a race to protect the Prince's future. Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🆃🅷🅴 🅶🅰🅼🅴 🅿🅻🅰🆈 The Sherlock Holmes Experience was an interactive theater event at our local Fringe festival. Arriving at 221B Baker Street we were greeted by none other than Sherlock Holmes himself, telling us he needed our help with this case. Giving us a clipboard with information on where we were to head and what our objectives were, we headed around the Fringe to find the posters with clues on them. This was a casual game that we could enjoy at our own pace as we explored the different areas of the Fringe area. As we found each poster, we needed to ensure we took good notes on what was on them to be able to solve the objectives. Once complete, we headed back to the designated location, where if we felt confident about our solutions, we would be able to go inside 221B Baker Street and compare our findings to the solutions on the wall. We also get a rating us on whether we solved the objectives or not, we got “partial” marks if we knew how to solve certain steps of the puzzles. 🆃🅷🅴 🅿🆄🆉🆉🅻🅴🆂 We found some creative puzzles as the story unfolded. There were more of them than we expected as we moved from place to place. Once we visited all the spots, we needed to make sure to took good notes to put everything together in the end. If we needed help, we could ask Sherlock for hints, and he would steer us in the right direction. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🅲🅻🅾🆂🅸🅽🅶 🆃🅷🅾🆄🅶🅷🆃🆂 This was a fun casual activity to do with the kids. They enjoyed running around and searching for the clues and piecing them together. We were told afterwards this was inspired by a true story. The posters were well designed and hid some sneaky puzzles. We played with 4 people but more could play and if you ask for more sheets so everyone could have their own, that would be no problem. Overall, this was a fantastic activity to spend some family time and unravel a mystery together. *** We regret to inform this experience is no longer available for booking but check out other experiences on their website*** (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 "!) #MatthewLui #ImmersiveExperiences #TheBestMedicineProductions #SherlockHolmes #Mystery #Canada

LOCATION: Catford, London, United Kingdom Photo above is property of BuckBuck Games Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : The Hunt for the Smoking Caterpillar 📅 DATE PLAYED : November 20, 2021 🎬 GENRE : Fantasy, Fairytale 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 3 ppl) : 5/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 1-24 ppl (in small groups of 2-5 ppl) 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 80 Mins. 💰 PRICE : £32/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Public 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY Russell, the smoking caterpillar, has gone on another of his crazy sprees, locking up the stuffs and golds of the inhabitants of New Wonderland, and the Baron is not impressed. Since Alice found him last time, the Baron has recruited you from what they know as “Aliceland” to come and sort out the mess Russell has left behind and ultimately locate him to answer to his behaviour! Team up, bid, barter, talk to and assist the folk you meet to solve puzzles, access locked boxes and get back what has been hidden. Then find that caterpillar! Video above is property of BuckBuck Games 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE The venue is a kooky and highly decorative pub very close to the tube station, where we sat until greeted by the most affable and nattily dressed rabbit, who gave us some very important items for our journey, explained what was needed of us and then when the time was right, took us up the staircase to enter New Wonderland. We were given a complimentary drink beforehand to help us hydrate for the task ahead. This is a mixture of gin and fruit juices, and even as someone who isn’t a drinker of alcohol I found it most pleasant - I’m sure an alternative could be requested if you ask in advance, but you can also buy your own from the bar before the game. I was asked to read out loud the rules of play and then we were introduced to the Baron - a character who clearly has your best interests at heart as they have invited you all here, to New Wonderland, to help them search for this caterpillar. Once Baron had given their speech, we were free to begin hunting. This involves using clues around the room to open many boxes, which might involve solving riddles, finding items or interacting with the mysterious folk of New Wonderland, who all have secrets but also things to share with you and things to ask of you. Open these numerous boxes, engage with the folk, and you will earn many golds. What good are these golds? Well, you just have to collect them to find out, don't you! As time goes on, you become embroiled in the lives of these characters, helping, questioning, bribing or just singing with them! You will be asked to do odd things, you will find some weird things, you will certainly sing a song or two, and it is simply brilliant. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK Nothing! It’s important to realise that what you get out of the game is not only dependent on the cast but what you are willing to put into it - and we were very lucky to have another group in our session who were just as willing to embrace the fun, go with it, and engage with the activities and puzzles, and this made it even better - like group therapy! If there’s anyone there who isn’t really getting into the spirit, I know the cast would do a great job in judging how the players are engaging and try to make sure everyone has a great time. 7 of us in the room felt about right, especially given Covid times, many more and it might get even crazier! 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? We had an absolute blast! Has to be the best hour I have spent in a pub ever. The small but talented cast were just brilliant and all the artefacts and decorations in the room are superb and fully in keeping with the theme. This is escapism and nonsense fun at its very best and a breath of fresh air. Go and try it. Let go of any inhibitions, embrace your silly side, laugh out loud and most importantly, find the caterpillar! ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO BuckBuck offers other types of event, both online and in-person, and their games, including Caterpillar, can be personalised to your group size and type, so check them out for current and future fun for your party, team-building or just because! There are more events coming from the team in the future too, so watch this space! 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 BuckBuck Games for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #HelenBailey #ImmersiveExperiences #BuckBuckGames #ImmersiveTheatre #Fantasy #FairyTale #London #UnitedKingdom

LOCATION: London, United Kingdom Photo above is property of Bridge Command Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝    ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Bridge Command 📅 DATE PLAYED : April 26, 2025 🎬 GENRE : Sci-Fi, Adventure, Space 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl) : 8/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 4-14 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 120 Mins. 💰 PRICE : £40-£60/ pp (pending on the day and mission) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Public 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 🎭    THE EXPERIENCE We wandered up to an almost imperceptible door in a bright blue arch in an innocuous-looking brick wall in Vauxhall one grey Saturday afternoon, not really sure of what we were stepping into, but on the other side of that door, everything changed. The inner sanctum felt like an area full of promise. A rack of uniforms, sealed and ordered by size. A mysterious clock and a ramp, leading to a glowing doorway, that pulsed enticingly. We confirmed that we were here with the crew at the desk, and asked to “suit up” which we did. From that moment, you really felt you were being prepared for something out of this world. Our guide arrived, gathered us up and gave us our mission patches and officer stripes, and informed us of what has been happening “out there” and thus what our mission would entail. Then, we stepped boldly forward, into the teleporter, where we were, quite safely, transported 22 lightyears into the future Your first port of call is the Quarters, where you can mingle and prepare with a choice of beverages from the bar. Your chosen “fuel” will be presented in a branded bottle, which you can take with you on board. We met various other Starship crew members here, all there to make sure we’re prepared for our mission, and then it’s on to our briefing room from the commander, given via intergalactic video-call where we learn more about our mission. We’re then onward into our trusty starship, and this is where things really become real. Video above is property of Bridge Command 🎯    HIT THE BULLSEYE From the moment you walk onto the ship, it's clear that an extraordinary level of effort has gone into creating a believable, atmospheric environment. The set design is truly exceptional—every surface, screen, control panel, and sound effect evokes a fully operational starship and its bridge. It's the kind of environment that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a science fiction blockbuster or well-loved sci-fi TV series. There are multiple areas, including medbay, office, and a fully functional toilet, so that if the g-forces, the mission anxiety, or just your pre-mission beverage get to you, you can “go” without breaking the immersion. Suddenly, you’re not in central London anymore, but about to navigate the stars. It’s explained that this ship requires maintenance, monitoring, and precision control, so you will need to be assigned roles. From Captain, through comms, engineering, weapons, and scientific analysis - there’s something for everyone to do. Being our first space mission, we weren’t fully sure what would be expected of us, but we chose roles we thought sounded like they played to our earthly strengths, and once you’re in position, your roles are walked through in a kind of tutorial scenario, learning what to press and when, and what you’re looking for on the myriad of screens and blinking lights. There’s no dumbing down of the immersion here - you will be overawed by the complex terminology, realistic radar and diagrams, and various crystals and fuses that power the whole thing. Warp Drive Quantum Polarity Hub, anyone?! Before too long, it’s time to “blast off” and boldly go where, well, others have gone before for sure, but as this experience has multiple missions, ships, and the teams will be different every time you play, then I’m confident no two missions will ever be the same. This is also hugely due to the incumbent crew, who are so fully immersed and confident in the world that it feels like they can handle any question, scenario, or lacklustre crewmate, and get people working together and getting the most from the experience. Either via telecoms or while actually on board with you, they skillfully guide the mission and provide support and insight which steers the story to a resolution - what that might be is dependent on the behaviour and willingness of the entire team to engage fully. As these are public games, unless you have filled the slots with your friends, you are at the mercy of those who join you on the day. For anyone with a deep love of sci-fi culture and drama, I expect this is a dream come true to be able to live out your fantasy of being on board a starship, taking orders and being part of the crew that “always seems to save the day” despite all the peril and hurdles you will face along the way, including enemies, ship damage, systems that need to be monitored and balanced, and incoming transmissions and data that need to be handled! It’s all brought together by a very impressive computer system that responds to the team’s inputs and decisions, and throws up said challenges and data very well, at least during our mission, which was to find a defector from a group of pirates, give them safe harbour if we felt it right to, gather intelligence on the band of pirates, and if necessary, eliminate them. My husband was in charge of weapons. As a fan of “shooty computer games” this appealed to him, but I was less than impressed when he owned up to having shot at our own shuttle, which I was in command of the engineering for. This role led me to leave the main bridge with a few other crew now and then to “blast off” separately and provide backup as a rendezvous or to fight alongside the main ship. Whilst a neat additional part of the plot, this sometimes felt a little like we missed a lot of the main action, as we couldn’t actually see what was going on aboard the bridge, and at one point they warped off and left us stranded, with very little to do! We weren’t allowed back in until we had safely redocked, which, whilst accurate, felt a bit lonely. My husband reports that things were much more involved in the main bridge, with sparks flying and smoke appearing at one point when the main ship took damage. Otherwise, it was business as usual with the Captain shouting out orders, monitoring everyone, and crew-mates dutifully pressing buttons and reporting items on their screens to get the bigger picture of what we were heading for or what was playing out. 🧩   MISSED THE MARK At times, I had to admit to feeling rather lost, not really knowing what was going on, and just balancing systems on one screen when we took damage or were using our warp drive too much, just by jabbing at buttons as necessary. Sci-fi terminology and character names bamboozle me at the best of times when I’m a passive observer, but when you’re faced with having to actually partake in the scenario, it was quite boggling! However, I was happy to just observe at times, and be swept along by the responses and interaction of the other crew, as they immersed themselves with different amounts of gusto, into the scenario. Our chief pilot seemed to have his own agenda, spinning the main ship off in all sorts of directions and not taking it at all seriously, whilst a crewmate who had been on many missions before, and earned multiple stripes, had quietly taken a comms role, allowing others to step up, which I thought was valiant, but maybe under his captaincy we could have had more structure and certainty. As a lover of escape rooms and puzzles, I would certainly have welcomed more physical tasks, such as having to find logbooks containing data on the ship, work out passwords, solve logic puzzles, or have to do some sort of battle with locks or entry systems during our 1.5-hour mission. Whilst the set was impressive, for us in the shuttle at least it didn’t really yield much interaction, and we were pretty much glued to our particular screens pressing buttons on them, which started to feel a bit too much like my day job, to be honest! Whilst the underlying tech is good, there’s not much way to know if your actions are having any effect, especially as part of the isolated shuttle crew. 🏹   TAKE A SHOT? It was frenetic, certainly immersive, and wildly confusing at times. Still, it certainly was an experience I will never forget. I am certain that those who return time and time again get something new out of it every time, mostly due to the fact that when you book, your mission is logged so you can be guided towards a new one on your return, hence earning more stripes and having many different roles you can try. Two people in our team were awarded honours for their roles, which was great for them! If there was an opportunity to return but have a mission involving less tactical fight and flight, with more active things to do in terms of searching, solving, and analysing, I’d be back there like a shot. Say for example, you are a crew that just has to fly skillfully to a certain region, land, analyse a species, mineral or similar, and use items on board the ship that you have to find, puzzle out and use logic and teamwork to progress, that would most certainly appeal to me. Where the goal is to figure things out and solve some sort of quandary or help save a species through solving their problem, and not just fulfilling a need for speed and “pew-pew-pew” - I wonder if this would give the experience wider appeal and feel more satisfactory to some? Whatever you feel about sci-fi, stepping into the world of Bridge Command for a couple of hours is totally worth it to just take in what has been achieved and to spend time role-playing and acting out those “save the world” fantasies. Like with many immersive experiences these days, you really do get out of it what you put in. And this one is a joy made possible by the amazing team behind and inside it, and is certainly boldly going where no immersive experience has gone before in terms of adapting and amending the experience so that it grows and evolves - I think this is one of those things that will be around for light years to come. 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 Bridge Command for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #HelenBailey #IRLescaperoom #ImmersiveExperiences #BridgeCommand #SciFi #London #UnitedKingdom

LOCATION : London, United Kingdom Photo above is property of Layered Reality Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Jeff Wayne's The War of the Worlds: The Immersive Experience 📅 DATE PLAYED : March 7, 2024 🎬 GENRE : Sci-Fi, Aliens 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : Up to 12 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 1 hr. 50 Mins. (including 20 Min. intermission) 💰 PRICE : from £40/ pp (depending on date/time/group size; packages & add-ons available) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Public 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : N/A 📖 THE STORY You are back in the late 1800s, and thrown headlong into the story of Wells’ War of the Worlds. You’ve heard strange rumors of the appearance of unusual creatures…could they be true? And, if so, what does this mean for your future?! Video above is property of Layered Reality 🎯    HIT THE BULLSEYE This is a fantastical combination of interactive theater, musical theater, special effects, and virtual reality. It was hard for me to envision how this would all come together in advance, but as you progress through the experience, moving from scene to scene (24 total), this wild mix of components somehow works! The immersion here comes in so many forms. The smells are intense, the sets well-crafted, and there’s a ton of tech - from pyrotechnics to visual projections and sound effects. They also have you actively participating in actions fitting to the various scenes. There’s even a sing-along at one point, of a song I’d never heard but everyone else seemed to know! For the most part, the actors (and there were a bunch) were excellent at both playing their roles and responding to audience interactions. If you’re traveling solo, unlike many escape rooms, this is totally something you can go do on your own! You’ll likely be put in a group with other folks (up to 12 per session), and there’s definite bonding that occurs as you (hopefully) survive the alien invasion. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK As someone with an Oculus at home, the VR here was lower resolution and not always as successful (though a few scenes worked well). Those who haven’t done much VR before may not notice this. There was one particular scene (not involving VR) that was very movement heavy and made me a bit nauseous, but didn’t really seem to have much of a point in the story. If you do start feeling sick (either at this point or with the VR, which also simulates movement at times), you can always close your eyes for a bit! Or, if you’re prone to it, consider taking some anti-nausea meds in advance. I read the original book just before I participated (there’s also a movie version), but the details of the story might be a bit more confusing to those unfamiliar with it. Though, the specifics are not critical to the overarching storyline and enjoyment of the experience. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? I had an absolute blast at War of the Worlds, and definitely recommend it for almost anyone looking for a unique, immersive, multi-faceted experience. It is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible. While they note that some specific effects (e.g., strobe lights) can be avoided if you let them know in advance, I wouldn’t advise bringing small children (10+ recommended) or those sensitive to loud noises, strong smells, etc. However, aside from these caveats, if you’re ever in London, go check it out! I’ve never had an experience like this one…it was a LOT, in the best possible way. Just beware…you never know what might happen! ℹ️   ADDITIONAL INFO There is a super cool bar at the entrance, with drinks and food. It perfectly sets the vibe for your upcoming adventure. You also will spend the intermission at another thematic bar, where you can grab a drink and use the bathroom. There are free lockers to store your things, as well as a gift shop and counter to buy your official photos after your experience. You make be asked to get in line 5-10 minutes before your official start time, so be sure you’re ready to go. 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 Layered Reality  for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #KristaJones #ImmersiveExperiences #LayeredReality #SciFi #Aliens #London #UnitedKingdom

LOCATION: London, United Kingdom Photo above is property of Phantom Peak Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Platypus Parade 📅 DATE PLAYED : April 30, 2023 🎬 GENRE : Sci-Fi, Steampunk, Theme Park 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 4 ppl) : 6/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : N/A 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : Up to 4.5 Hours 💰 PRICE : £46.43/PP (Standard ticket), £67.07/PP (VIP ticket) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Public 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes Many of our friends and readers have posted on their social media about Phantom Peak and they all seem to have an amazing time there. We were eager to check out this season's show " Platypus Parade " on our UK tour. As we arrived at the location, we were joined by our friends James & Charlie ( Owners of Deadlocked Escape Room ). Since they've been to the last show, it was great to have them as guides. Before we entered the world of Phantom Peak, we were greeted by several actors giving us a little introduction to the rules to follow. It was quite difficult to hear so our advice is to perhaps add a speaker mechanism for the outside area. Once we got in, we had a little bit of time to get some yummy food and drink before the show officially started. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers There was a web-based portal that was used to follow the available trails and submit answers. The great thing about the portal was that you don't actually have to download anything or have wifi in order to participate in this experience. The trails were randomized so that not everyone will cram into the same mystery. Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers This place instantly made me feel like a kid at the Frontierland in Disneyland. There were so many different sites to explore and people to interact with. The actors were fantastic. Even if they were taking a break, they would still be in character. I would say, "The more you give to Phantom Peak, the more you will receive". Each trail gave us a bit more information about either a character or an event. Everyone will walk out of the place with a different theory pending on how much they found out. This experience definitely leaned heavily on narrative rather than puzzles. The puzzles were meant to be easily solvable so that you could get to the next part of the story. I love the fact that this venue gave the players the freedom as to how they wanted to experience Phantom Peak. If you are a beginner puzzler and want to come with family and friends to just have a relaxing fun day, you could do that. And if you are an experienced puzzler and want to see how many trails you can complete and maybe even complete with your other teammates, you can do that as well. There is something for everyone at Phantom Peak! Below are some tips that could help you during your next visit and be sure to check out our Youtube video for a sneak peek of the venue! Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers ℹ️ Tips on How to Maximize your time at phantom peak Take a photo of the town map and the town's bulletin board. It'll save you time from going back and forth to find locations and information/clues on the trails. You'll probably not have time for food/drink during the show since there are about 11-12 trails to cover. Make sure to take the time in the beginning (you'll get about 30 minutes) and during the intro of the show to energize up. If you are coming with a big group, take different trails and go for the divide-and-conquer approach. Meet up after the show to discuss and merge information together to get the most out of the experience. Of course, you can always come back and play the ones you've missed as well. Note: They do take the last 30 minutes to close up the show with a final performance so you won't be able to explore during that time. The tea and sweets area are reserved for people who have prepaid for the experience. You can't purchase them at the event. But there might be clues hidden within the tea shop still, so make sure to check it out. Get familiar with where and how to input answers on the machines at the venue. You'll be using those multiple times. Interactions with the actors are very important. You might not be able to solve a trail if you don't chat with them or carry out a mission assigned by them. There is a show that will go on every 30 minutes starting from a designated time. Do not miss this! I believe there are only 4 shows during the time frame so make sure you get there early and get into one of them. There's a cut-off on how many people can go into one show so if there are too many people, you might have to wait for the next one. The venue has alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. But there is NO COFFEE! You should bring some energy shots. Near the outdoor bar area, there is free water and cups. The best toilet area would be the one inside behind the "Spector & Vox" office. It's big and very clean. This is a cashless venue so make sure to bring your credit card as there are video games, food, drinks, and souvenirs that might interest you. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing since there will be a lot of walking and at one point you might have to crawl. Check out our interview with the creators to understand more on the development side of these 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 Phantom Peak for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #CiciCao #ImmersiveExperiences #PhantomPeak #PlatypusParade #Steampunk #SciFi #ThemePark #London #UnitedKingdom

LOCATION: London, United Kingdom Photo above is property of Punchdrunk Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : The Burnt City 📅 DATE PLAYED : September 16, 2022 🎬 GENRE : Immersive Theater, Mythology 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl) : N/A 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 10 ppl/ Group 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 180 Mins. 💰 PRICE : £55-125/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Public 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY One Cartridge Place is a local that tells the story of the fall of Troy in ancient history. More specifically, it follows the stories of the plays titled "Hecuba" by Euripides and "Agamemnon" by Aeschylus. The show takes place over two large warehouses each painstakingly designed to depict the setting in question. Agamemnon is the "King of the Greeks" and reigns over the warehouse that takes place in Mycenae. It is a large area with little set-pieces but radiates from the environment. The center is a large focal point where major points of action occur and all will be able to observe the story going on. In great contrast (in the next warehouse), the city of Troy, ruled by Hecuba, is closed, constraining, labyrinthian city streets. These are based on old plays but a lot of the same themes are traced back to current day. This is an adult show and no one under the age of 18 will be allowed into the venue. There will be disturbing imagery as well as nudity and minor gore. The adult themes were handled very tastefully during the production and added to the experience rather than taking away. Video above is property of Punchdrunk 👀 THE EXPERIENCE If you are unfamiliar with immersive theater, feel free to check out my article - " 7 Tips & Tricks For Your First Immersive Theater Show ". As of Sept. 2022, in order to enter "The Burnt City", everyone must wear a mask. This is checked in line before you enter the building and limited masks are available at the door. You are then ushered into the first portion of the venue where there is a coat check available (for a small fee or free depending on the ticket purchased) and a front desk where you will verify your ticket and receive a playing card. Each guest is given a unique card and you will be sent to the bar. The bar is open one hour before the show and feel free to drink at your leisure. Cocktails will not be made until an hour and a half into the show. Before arriving at the bar, you are asked to put your phone on SILENT and it is placed inside a little pocket bag where it is LOCKED closed, you hold onto your phone the entire time but access is not available unless you exit the show and have staff unlock the bag. Punchdrunk believes that for the time you are exploring the show everyone should be present and undistracted. Also, while in the show, you are asked respectfully to remain from speaking. Once the show is ready to begin they will call card values and let people into the experience in small groups. There is a brief introduction before you are let into the show and the next couple hours are yours to explore. When the show has concluded, all are led back to the bar for merriment and discussion. This is a great time to meet up with your friends and talk about what you saw and compare. It also gives a demonstration of the live band on stage if one never makes their way back to the bar during the show. Photos above are property of Punchdrunk 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE The ancient cities of Mycenae and Troy are radically different in their design and it makes you really appreciate both the storyline and the sets the designers were communicating during the show. Each has a second story that incorporates well into choreography and movement during the show giving a depth unlike anything seen before. Each and every actor played their part well and was able to convey their roles through their facial expressions and movements during the piece. When choreographing for an immersive show, one has to take into account the spaces created and the actors were able to use every little area to their advantage. There is a beautiful score that enchants the audience members during the production. It is very much noticeable and flows with the action happening. The bar was a part of the show itself. Once everyone is ushered into the main settings, during the production (about an hour after the first group goes in) the bar starts hopping with musical entertainment and merriment. Although I never personally made my way back to the bar during the show, I noticed during the production the liveliness coming from those four walls. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK The show starts the immersion from the minute you enter the building, and while they do a good job explaining the bare bones of what you will be seeing. A little more information could be given about what one could expect when attending The Burnt City. The show is almost too big for a single visit. I had a hard time trying to decide if I wanted to watch the events in Troy or Greece and, especially in Troy, the storefronts and secrets to be discovered are overwhelming. The plays represented were foreign to me and thus I had no context for the show other than it was the fall of Troy. There are aspects during the show and standard themes one could be expected to be aware of that bridged the gap and made it an enjoyable and relatable experience. We were provided with general tickets to the production, there is a premium and VIP package as well but with the price levels, we saw very little reason to upgrade. For those looking for an all inclusive night though, it might just be worth it. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? Punchdrunk puts on another amazing production where you are up close and personal to the actors instead of a standard stage. Each and every area is unique and one could spend the first hour simply wandering around and taking in the scenery. Feel free to move back and forth between each city and sometimes (when following an actor) you may head to the location previous with newfound knowledge. The movements of the actors (while still intensely choreographed dance numbers) felt exploratory and with purpose to convey the staging and motivations behind the characters, it is always a pleasure to follow a singular character to see what he or she will perform. If you are looking for a unique evening experience, The Burnt City provides a show you won’t soon forget! ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Immersive Theater, NO Street Parking, Physically active show (accessible tickets available), Coat check, Drinks served for cost, multi-tiered tickets, lobby entertainment, story enhancing items to find. Masks required, 18+ required (Nudity). *** We regret to inform this experience is no longer available for booking but check out other experiences on their website*** (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 Punchdrunk for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #MikeSchnurr #ImmersiveExperiences #OneCartridgePlace #Shakespeare #Mystery #LiveActor #Punchdrunk #UnitedKingdom

LOCATION: Helen, Georgia, USA Photo above is property of Mirth & Mischief Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝    ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Mirth & Mischief 📅 DATE PLAYED : May 23, 2025 🎬 GENRE : Fantasy 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : Up to 7 Hrs. 💰 PRICE : $50.00 - $500.00 ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Public 📖 THE STORY Set in a gorgeous castle nestled in Helen, GA, Mirth and Mischief invites you into an immersive fantasy world where realms have unexpectedly merged. It is up to you—and your fellow adventurers—to help close the portal between worlds once and for all. But before that can happen, you'll need to lend a hand to some of the castle’s mysterious and magical residents. At the heart of the story is a prince who has fallen into a deep depression. The Moon Goddess arrives to help him reflect on his past and face his emotional wounds, while the Earth Goddess seeks to restore his spirit and bring him back into the light. Much of your exploration will revolve around the prince, the queen, and the many beings tied to them—each of whom plays a role in helping to mend his fractured state of mind. Video above is property of Mirth & Mischief 🎭    THE EXPERIENCE Your journey begins with a short shuttle ride up to the castle, where you’re immediately greeted by characters from this magical world who begin to introduce you to the unfolding situation. From there, it’s up to you and your group to explore at your own pace—wandering the castle grounds in search of light, truth, and a way to restore balance to the realms. Upon arrival, you're given a map and a set of guiding questions. These not only help orient you within the sprawling environment but also serve as prompts for engaging with the various characters and creatures scattered throughout the castle. The more curious and open you are, the more the world opens up to you in return. Like many immersive theater experiences, Mirth and Mischief is a choose-your-own-adventure. You decide who to talk to, what to ask, and which stories to follow. A unique element to this event is Act One—a limited-seating performance that happens every hour or so. While it's optional, it adds rich narrative context and is highly recommended if you want a deeper understanding of the prince’s inner journey. Throughout your adventure, you might find yourself consulting an astrologer, receiving a tarot reading, watching a living painting come to life, or basking in music played by butterflies transformed into humans. You may even find yourself face-to-face with the castle’s resident dragon and its keeper. Every performer has their own story to tell—and the more you invest in their world, the more they reveal in return. After engaging with certain fairies on the castle grounds and answering three of their guiding questions, you’ll be gifted your Orb of Light—an important item used during the evening’s climactic ritual. Act Two closes out the overarching narrative in a heartfelt finale. And once the final curtain falls, the castle transforms into a full-on DJ dance party to celebrate the realms restored. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯    HIT THE BULLSEYE The actors in Mirth and Mischief absolutely nailed it. From improvised group interactions to intimate one-on-one moments, they embodied everything I’ve ever wished a Renaissance fair could be—alive, personal, and deeply connected. Each performer not only knew the overarching storyline but also fully understood their character’s place in the world and how to interact organically with guests. What made this especially impressive was how well the cast worked together. Characters would often give you a specific item or clue that sent you off on a mini-quest to find and engage with someone else in the castle. Every interaction felt purposeful, with one thread naturally leading to the next. There was always something—or someone—to follow, and it created the sense that you were genuinely moving through a living, breathing world. One of the most thoughtful elements was how Mirth and Mischief approached accessibility for new theatergoers. Upon entry, each guest received a necklace with a light-up feature. When turned off, it signaled to the actors that you preferred to observe. But if you turned it on, that was their green light to fully include you in the world. This simple mechanic gave guests total control over their level of engagement, making it ideal for both first-timers and seasoned immersive veterans. Whether you wanted to quietly take it all in or dive headfirst into a personalized storyline, Mirth and Mischief made sure you felt comfortable every step of the way. 🧩   MISSED THE MARK While the overall story had a lot of potential—especially in the hands of such talented actors—some of the larger narrative moments didn’t land quite as well. The main storyline, when presented in the scheduled "acts," often felt more like a generalized fantasy show rather than a deeply personal tale from the prince's perspective. Act 2 in particular leaned heavily on projections and spectacle, but lacked the emotional weight or payoff we were hoping for. After spending hours connecting with characters and uncovering personal threads, the conclusion felt somewhat disconnected from the heart of the experience. It wasn’t a bad ending by any means—it just didn’t fully deliver on the promise of the immersive journey leading up to it. 🏹   TAKE A SHOT? " Mirth and Mischief " created something truly special in southeastern Georgia—an immersive event the likes of which I’ve never seen in all my years living in the region. It felt like a living piece of fantasy art, a celebration of immersive theater done with heart and creativity. The fact that it took place in a castle nestled in the mountains of Helen, GA added a fairytale layer to an already enchanting evening. Our group arrived right at opening and were among the first to explore the space, which I highly recommend for any immersive event. Giving yourself time to breathe, explore, and connect with the characters and setting can truly elevate the experience. The ticket price felt completely reasonable when considering the level of talent, the dedication of the performers, the scenic design, and the immersive touches scattered throughout the castle. You could tell the creators poured love into every corner. That said, I didn’t quite feel the added value of the VIP and MIP ticket tiers. As someone who regularly participates in escape rooms and interactive theater, I’m naturally inclined to engage with actors, improv, and storytelling. While I did have many wonderful one-on-one interactions, they felt earned through my personal engagement, not necessarily because of the upgraded ticket. The all-you-can-eat food and drink access, however, was a fantastic perk. It created a cozy, comfortable space where guests could relax, recharge, and swap stories from their adventures in the realm. When Act 2 began and everyone gathered to “close the portal,” I was a little let down. The scene became more of a stylized projection show, using AI-generated imagery that didn’t feel connected to the story we had helped shape throughout the evening. Rather than tying back into the deeply personal tale of the prince’s emotional recovery, we were treated to pop songs, fire dancers, and a visual spectacle that lacked the narrative heart we had invested in. Once that wrapped, the story was considered over, the actors left, and the castle transitioned into a DJ dance party. It was a fun, vibrant celebration—but felt like a separate event entirely rather than a finale. Still, there were so many wonderful details that made the evening unforgettable. Guests were encouraged to dress up in costume, which led to an incredible mix of Renaissance garb, casual wear, and whimsical fantasy fashion. It was beautiful to see attendees of all ages—from curious first-timers to seasoned theatergoers—fully immersed in the magic of the night. I found myself watching the faces of other guests more than once, seeing that sense of awe and wonder that we don’t get to witness nearly enough anymore. Despite my initial hesitation—especially given the heavy use of AI-generated advertising materials—the event itself far surpassed expectations. With so many failed or underwhelming immersive projects popping up around the world (the “Willy Wonka experience” in London comes to mind), I was bracing for disappointment. Instead, Mirth and Mischief delivered a passion-fueled, joyful, and artfully crafted experience. Though this particular run has ended and there are currently no concrete plans to bring it back, some staff mentioned that investors are interested in supporting future versions. I sincerely hope that’s true. Whether in the Southeast or beyond, Mirth and Mischief deserves to live on and introduce more people to the magic of immersive storytelling. If it resurfaces, grab your most curious friends, throw on a costume, and step into a world where wonder still lives. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers ℹ️   ADDITIONAL INFO Parking lots with shuttle transportation to Castle Included ADA accessibility has been included however due to the Castle’s nature, there may be some limited offerings for those who struggle with stairs Food for purchase Vendors and Gift shop 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 Mirth & Mischief 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 #ImmersiveExperiences #MirthandMischief #Fantasy #Georgia #USA

LOCATION : Manhattan, NYC, New York, USA Photo above is property of Netflix, Inc. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🎭 EXPERIENCE : Squid Game: The Experience (NYC) 📅 DATE PLAYED : October 26, 2024 🎬 GENRE : Immersive 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 20 ppl) : 4/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PEOPLE : Up to 15 ppl (15+ ppl, click HERE ) 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : Standard: $39.00/ pp, VIP: $65.00/ pp, Anytime: $89.00/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Public 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 🎭 THE EXPERIENCE Netflix's dystopian survival thriller - " Squid Game (오징어 게임) ", has emerged as a cultural powerhouse since its debut. Conceived, penned, and helmed by Hwang Dong-hyuk, the series merges suspense, horror, and incisive social critique in a story that has captivated viewers worldwide. Now, you can "safely" immerse yourself in an hour of thrilling gameplay at " Squid Game: The Experience "! Face both beloved and feared challenges from Netflix’s iconic series, along with several new games unique to New York in this intense competition. Outsmart the creepy Young-hee doll in "Red Light, Green Light", challenge your nerves on the perilous "Glass Bridge", and give it your all in the epic "Warships" game. But there's even more! The experience is on the northwest corner of the Manhattan Mall (6th Avenue and 32nd Street). As soon as you step inside, there's a Korean-inspired Night Market where exclusive merchandise, iconic photo spots, and delicious soju-infused cocktails await! We had a large group of 20 people. After browsing through the Night Market, there's an area toward the back with (3) separate lines - (1) Standard admission, (2) VIP admission, (3) Anytime admission (see below for details). Once you enter inside, you are handed a bracelet with 3-digits on it signifying your player number which you will register at one of the kiosks available along with your photo. Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers Afterwards, you are led by one of the tour guides (who is with you the entire time) inside an ominous room with 3 guards and a large screen behind them displaying all of our player numbers attached to our photos. They begin to debrief you on the challenges ahead and break down the Squid Game rules. Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers ADMISSION DETAILS Standard Admission Entry to the experience to play all 5 games Access to the Night Market before and after the games VIP Admission Front of the line access to the full 60-minute experience (all 5 games) Access to the Night Market before and after the games Complimentary coat check VIP Lounge access + a complimentary drink An exclusive "Squid Game" mask Coupons for discounts on merch, snacks, and more at the Night Market Anytime Admission Visit the experience anytime on your selected date An additional game included with Front of the line access to the full 60-minute experience (all 5 games) Access to the Night Market before and after the games Complimentary coat check VIP Lounge access + a complimentary drink An exclusive "Squid Game" mask Coupons for discounts on merch, snacks, and more at the Night Market GLASS BRIDGE In " Glass Bridge ", 5 players are lined up side-by-side with 10 glass squares in front of them. A path of green squares is quickly shown to you to memorize and follow. You're goal is to make it across one step at a time. The squares that were green, you step on it and the ones that weren't, off to the side. Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers MARBLES For " Marbles ," there are four circular stations made of cork, each labeled with a symbol: triangle, square, circle, and umbrella. Five players are positioned at each station, aiming to collect as many marbles from each other as possible. Players take turns trying to throw a marble into the symbol. The first player to succeed collects the marbles on the board. After 4 minutes, the player with the most marbles is declared the winner. Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers WARSHIPS " Warships " in Squid Game is akin to the traditional board game "Battleship." The players are split into two distinct rooms, each with 4 warships placed on a grid. From your warship, you can launch missiles at the opposing team's coordinates, shown on a large screen. Every successful hit allows your team another turn. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers RED LIGHT, GREEN LIGHT The iconic challenge " Red Light, Green Light " is a fundamental part of Squid Game. All players start lined up on one side of the room, with the Young-hee doll positioned on the opposite side. Whenever the Young-hee doll calls out "Green Light," you advance towards her side. However, when she announces "Red Light," you must stop immediately, or you will be eliminated from the game. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers FINAL CHALLENGE After calculating each player's score, the individual with the highest score qualifies for the final challenge. Without revealing any spoilers, you should know that it is a one-on-one experience hosted by the Front Man. Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯    HIT THE BULLSEYE Bringing the iconic challenges from Squid Game to life was skillfully done. The puzzle designs were both creative and true to the show. The set design was pretty spot-on, from the dormitory to the spooky playground to the threatening "guards" in their red jumpsuits immersing you into the world of Squid Game. The meticulous attention to detail was astounding, significantly enhancing the experience drawing you into the game's atmosphere. The actors portraying the characters were outstanding! The guards were strict, and the Front Man was as intimidating as anticipated. The entire staff excelled at creating a sense of urgency without it ever feeling hazardous. They perfectly balance game immersion with safety. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK Some of the tech was a bit finicky throughout the experience. For "Glass Bridge", the elimination of some of the players was inaccurate. In "Warships", my team's entire ship wasn't working and we had to call out the coordinates that we wanted to target instead of using our control panel. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? If you've seen the show, you're aware of how intense the games can be, but nothing matches the experience of actually entering the world and being part of the action. If you're in NYC, seeking a unique, adrenaline-filled adventure, I highly recommend the Squid Game Experience. It's not only for fans of the show but also for anyone who enjoys a good challenge and wants to try something truly unique. Whether you're with friends or going solo, it's an unforgettable experience. Just be prepared to follow the rules or risk elimination! A major highlight for me was taking part in the show's iconic challenges. From "Marbles" to "Red Light, Green Light", the adrenaline rush was intense! Each game demands not only physical agility but also quick thinking and strategy. It's an incredible blend of excitement, tension, and sheer fun. You become fully immersed as if your life is on the line (though it fortunately isn't!). There's also a competitive aspect. You're not just playing for enjoyment—you're playing to win! The atmosphere is charged with energy, as everyone competes for triumph, attempting to outwit the opposition. It's an excellent chance to collaborate with friends or form alliances with new acquaintances, adding a social dimension to the experience. Note : " Squid Game: The Experience " is currently open for booking and will be available until March 31, 2024, with daily time slots from 10 AM to 9 PM. ℹ️   ADDITIONAL INFO Street parking and parking garages nearby Public transportation available There are live actors, but they will NOT touch you The venue is ADA compliant Cameras and photos are permitted Restrooms are available Merchandise available for purchase Food and drinks (alcoholic & non-alcoholic) are 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 hunt & gather for providing a media discount on the tickets for this game. Although discounted admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #BrandonChow #IRLEscapeRooms #ImmersiveExperiences #Neflix #SquidGame #Challenge #Manhattan #NYC #NewYork #USA

LOCATION : Manhattan, NYC, New York, USA Photo above is property of NBCUniversal Photos above are property of NBCUniversal 📝   ETR DECODER 🎭 EXPERIENCE : Jimmy Fallon's Tonightmares 📅 DATE PLAYED : October 24, 2024 🎬 GENRE : Immersive 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 4 ppl) : N/A 👥 TOTAL # OF PEOPLE : Up to 14 ppl (Recommended ages 13+) 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : Approx. 10 Mins. (Once inside the maze) 💰 PRICE : $36.90/ pp (1-6 ppl), $34.40/ pp (7-14 ppl) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 🎭 THE EXPERIENCE " Jimmy Fallon's Tonightmares" is a haunted maze experience venturing through ten frightening rooms filled with some of Jimmy's worst nightmares brought to life! Upon entering, you are met with a variety of menacing characters. Prepare to encounter the diabolical mad scientist, malfunctioning killer robots, a horrifying werewolf, and other sinister creatures! The experience is located downstairs as soon you walk inside the main entrance of the 630 5th Avenue building (behind the "Atlas" statue). Once you reach the bottom of the escalator, there is someone to scan your QR code to direct you to where the line begins. As you near the briefing point, there is a security checkpoint. We had a total group of 8 people (our group of 4 was paired with another group of 4). Once you enter, they debrief you on the rules and remind you that there is a strobe lights inside in case anyone needs to leave. The entire walkthrough was about 10 minutes (1 minute in each room) led by a zombified guide to make sure you don't delay the group that's behind you. Once you finish, there's a photo op with a monster that pops out behind you for the final photo (available for purchase). Note : This is a limited run. The last day to book is November 3, 2024 Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯    HIT THE BULLSEYE As you enter Jimmy Fallon's nightmare, he quickly guides you on a path through his greatest fears. Instead of moving quickly from one room to another, I appreciated how he seamlessly introduced his next nightmare as a narrator in between each room during this journey. The set design, lighting and sound effects were phenomenal as expected from NBCUniversal. Each room was successfully designed to bring one of Jimmy's nightmares to life. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK Because you are only allowed 1 minute in each room, it was difficult to absorb the experience in it's entirety. Appreciating the jump-scares was difficult due to the constant feeling of being hurried along. The beginning of the experience was clearly more carefully planned and executed compared to the ending, which seemed underwhelming. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? Overall, " Jimmy Fallon's Tonightmares " was enjoyable and entertaining! I wouldn't necessarily categorize it as a traditional haunt, but more as a fun and slightly spooky experience infused with Jimmy's humor. There were a few jump-scares along the way but most of them were predictable. Since this experience is catered to a wider audience, I would highly recommend anyone to check it out. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers ℹ️   ADDITIONAL INFO Street parking and parking garages nearby Public transportation E-M train to "5 Av/ 53 St" stop B-D-F-M train to "47-50 Sts Rockefeller Ctr" stop Halloween costumes, masks and face paint is prohibited. Closed toed shoes are recommended for safety There are live actors, but they will NOT touch you Service dogs are allowed Cameras and photos are permitted, but photography equipment (tripods, monopods, or lighting equipment is NOT) Pens, markers, sharpies and gum is not permitted This event includes strobe lights Restrooms are available Merchandise available for purchase Food and drinks (alcoholic & non-alcoholic) are available for purchase Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 👻 Halloween Treat! As a spooky season gift, enjoy 20% OFF all sessions for " Jimmy Fallon's Tonightmares " using code JFTFOMO20 – limited availability, so grab yours before it’s gone! (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 hunt & gather for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #BrandonChow #IRLEscapeRooms #ImmersiveExperiences #NBCUniversal #JimmyFallon #Horror #Haunt #HauntedMaze #Manhattan #NYC #NewYork #USA

LOCATION : Las Vegas, Nevada, USA Photo above is property of Kaleidoco Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🎭 EXPERIENCE : Particle Ink: House of Shattered Prisms 📅 DATE PLAYED : October 18, 2024 🎬 GENRE : Immersive 👥 TOTAL # OF PEOPLE : 75 ppl/ show 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 75 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $65.00/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Public 📖 THE STORY The 2.5 Dimension is a concept introduced at the beginning of the show, where the flat, two-dimensional world can expand into the third dimension, allowing new explorations. This idea serves as the foundation for the story within Particle Ink’s House of Shattered Prisms. The plot begins with a simple yet profound narrative—a struggling artist seeking inspiration. The show picks up as the artist emerges from his creative slump, reigniting the spark within him, and remembering why he started creating in the first place. From here, we are introduced to the character of Particle, a lively and spirited manifestation of the artist’s heart. But Particle is not the only character born from the artist's soul. We also meet Feather, a representation of the artist's wife, and together they face the impending threat of a looming darkness that resides deep within the artist. This darkness, as one might predict, consumes the artist’s heart and shatters it into six fragments, each representing a core idea. The journey that unfolds sees Particle and Feather embarking on an epic quest to recover these six shattered ideas, with the hope of restoring the artist's heart before the darkness takes complete control. Along the way, they must face challenges, solve mysteries, and uncover the one who holds the key to defeating the darkness once and for all. Throughout, the show blends visuals, themes, and dimensions in creative ways to bring the artist's internal struggles into a beautifully immersive external reality. Video above is property of Spotlight Vegas 🎭 THE EXPERIENCE If you are unfamiliar with immersive theater, please feel free to check out my article - " 7 Tips & Tricks For Your First Immersive Theater Show ". Like many immersive theater experiences, Particle Ink’s House of Shattered Prisms begins in a lobby designed to introduce you to the unique world you’re about to step into. The lobby itself is filled with interactive elements and serves as a warm-up for the experience ahead. There’s a bar where the drinks themselves reflect the theme of the 2.5 dimension, and scattered throughout are mirrors that creatively bring this concept to life. In one corner, an ominous fog wall with projections and vibrant colors offers a sneak peek into the strange, otherworldly dimension you’ll soon enter. About ten minutes before the show begins, the audience is led inside, where they’re given time to explore the space and begin to learn how to interact with their surroundings. Objects, lights, and set pieces invite guests to engage and understand the immersive elements they’ll encounter throughout the show. The story is narrated by a quirky and engaging sock puppet storyteller, who not only guides the narrative but also helps to introduce the audience to the concept of immersive theater. The puppet interacts directly with the crowd, breaking the fourth wall, and explaining that cheering, noise, and audience engagement are integral to the experience. This character creates a relaxed, playful atmosphere while helping the audience understand how their participation will shape the show. There are key moments where the audience must make choices, but unlike some branching experiences, following one path doesn’t take away from the rest of the story. Instead, the multiple paths are cleverly woven together so that no matter which direction you choose, you feel like you’ve witnessed the majority of the narrative. Throughout the show, ushers guide you through different rooms where small, intimate vignettes and scenes take place, offering a variety of experiences and visuals in what feels like a massive, ever-expanding space. As the story reaches its conclusion, the entire audience is reunited for the grand finale, where the last part of the show plays out in an unforgettable sequence. After the finale, guests are invited to stick around for photos and explore areas of the set that they may not have fully appreciated earlier in the show. This gives everyone a final opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of Particle Ink and absorb the finer details of the experience. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯    HIT THE BULLSEYE First off, the dancing in Particle Ink’s House of Shattered Prisms was absolutely incredible. This is a Vegas show unlike anything else currently on the Strip—there’s no stage, and the actors get right up close to you, making it one of the most intimate performances you can experience in Las Vegas. Whether it’s the movement of the dancers or the ever-present visuals, there’s always something to look at and engage with, keeping the audience captivated from beginning to end. The use of projectors to bring the 2.5-dimensional world to life was done in such a breathtaking and creative way. It’s clear that an immense amount of time, effort, and passion went into crafting this immersive visual experience. The creators must have dedicated hundreds of hours to meticulously designing every aspect of the show, and it shows. At every turn, there’s something new to explore—whether it’s an interactive element, a hidden detail in the set, or a projection that expands the visual world. The constant flow of imagery and motion creates a show that’s always evolving, always offering the audience something fresh to experience. While the storyline of the show is built around a familiar concept, it works extremely well, especially for a mass-produced immersive theater show. Given that the majority of the audience (likely around 95%) has never experienced immersive theater before, the story serves as an ideal introduction to this unique and niche art form. The show acts as a perfect gateway for those unfamiliar with immersive theater, offering a beautiful and approachable way to experience what the genre can offer. It strikes a balance between accessible storytelling and mesmerizing visuals, allowing newcomers to fully appreciate the magic of immersive theater without feeling overwhelmed. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK There aren't too many negatives I have about Particle Ink’s House of Shattered Prisms. However, speaking from personal preference—and echoed by some friends who attended the show with me—we did wish for a little bit more during the finale. Specifically, a stronger dance number or conclusion scene that could have tied together some of the recurring themes presented throughout the performance. While the finale was still satisfying, adding an extra layer of cohesion or a more impactful final dance could have left an even more lasting impression. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? " Particle Ink: House of Shattered Prisms " does a fantastic job of introducing people to the art of immersive theater, showing how art can connect not only on a personal level but also with those who experience it together. The seamless blend of cutting-edge technology and breathtaking, full-body dancing creates a visual spectacle that you truly need to see in person to fully appreciate. It pushes boundaries in a way that can take you outside your comfort zone, which is part of the magic and allure of immersive theater. It’s important to note that immersive theater isn’t for everyone, but for those intrigued by the concept, this show serves as a perfect entry point into the genre. This is one of the most unique and visually stunning experiences you can have on the Vegas Strip. It's unlike any other traditional Vegas show, and its intimate setting makes it all the more special. However, I must mention that I am writing this review shortly after hearing the announcement that Particle Ink's run at the Luxor will be closing on October 28th, 2024. If you have the opportunity to catch the show before it closes, I would highly recommend doing so. There is absolutely no reason to miss it if you’re in the area. That said, there is hope for the future of this production, as there has been talk of transitioning the show into a national touring production. One of the reasons I haven’t spoiled many of the show’s details in this review is that I sincerely hope this show will continue to thrive and reach more audiences around the world. Its impact, the artistry behind it, and the emotional depth of its storytelling deserve to be shared on a much broader scale. Personally, Particle Ink struck a deep emotional chord with me. The show touched on universal human experiences—struggles, triumphs, and emotional highs and lows—that I believe many people can relate to. The production manages to balance this emotional depth with an adventurous and exploratory feel, which is what makes it so unique. I even spoke with one of the ushers after the show, and they mentioned how the beauty of the production almost always moves them to tears. Whether it's from the emotional beats or from the sheer brilliance and innovation on display, the show consistently evokes a profound response. All in all, this is truly a one-of-a-kind experience, and I'm so grateful to have seen it. It's a celebration of art, technology, and human connection, and I hope many more will have the chance to experience it as it hopefully continues its journey on a larger stage. ℹ️   ADDITIONAL INFO Parking in and around the theater Physically active show (accessible options available) Drinks served for cost, lobby entertainment, story enhancing items to find. Photos above are property of Kaleidoco (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 Kaleidoco for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #MikeSchnurr #IRLEscapeRooms #ImmersiveExperiences #Kaleidco #ParticleInk #Art #LasVegas #Nevada #USA

LOCATION : Las Vegas, Nevada, USA Photo are is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers Photos are all property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🎭 GAME : Museum of Illusions - Las Vegas 📅 DATE VISITED : July 4, 2024 🎬 GENRE : Immersive 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 5 ppl) : N/A 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : N/A 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : Approx. 45-90 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $45.00/ pp (ages 13+)/ $38.00/ pp (ages 5-12), children 4 and under FREE ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Public 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : N/A Video above is property of Museum of Illusions - Las Vegas Photos are all property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎭    THE EXPERIENCE The Museum of Illusions Las Vegas serves as their flagship location. It houses more than 80 exhibits within a 15,000 square feet area. With over 40 locations spanning four continents in 25 countries, the Museum of Illusions is the largest and fastest-growing brand of privately owned museums worldwide. The primary focus of the Las Vegas venue is on three main exhibition categories: I. Installations Discover the captivating highlights of this category, such as the Cloning Table, Head on a Platter, and exchanging body parts. Immerse yourself in astounding and thought-provoking installations that will amaze your senses and challenge your perceptions! II. Illusion Rooms Among the attractions, the tilted room, Walk-in kaleidoscope, Infinity Room, and Vortex Tunnel caught our attention. These mesmerizing spaces are sure to deceive your senses. III. Images This section is dedicated to individuals interested in exploring the distinction between reality and perception. Engaging and fascinating demonstrations will enlighten you on vision, perception, and the enigmatic workings of the human mind. We were fascinated by the holograms, optical illusions, and other intriguing phenomena! Explore a fantastic array of mind-bending rooms, captivating installations, and intriguing images. The displays will demonstrate that appearances can be deceiving, especially at the Museum of Illusions Las Vegas. Prepare to be enchanted. The venue presents a variety of astounding exhibits, unique installations designed specifically for this site, and delves into the scientific principles behind each altered reality to introduce a fresh 'edutainment' experience, exclusive to the Museum of Illusions. For those who enjoy creating content, there are ample opportunities for selfies and creative action shots. Be sure to visit if you find yourself in Vegas, as it offers entertainment for visitors of all ages! Check out a sneak peek of our experience HERE ! Photos are all property of ESCAPETHEROOMers ℹ️   ADDITIONAL INFO Parking garages in Aria would probably be the closest. You'll pass through the Crystal shops heading towards Cosmopolitan and it's located in the platform right in between. Lobby with merchandise for purchase Can be booked for corporate team buildings, birthdays and more! Wheelchair accessible Food & Drinks not allowed in the museum (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 Museum of Illusions - 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 #IRLEscapeRooms #ImmersiveExperiences #MuseumOfIllusions #LasVegas #Nevada #USA

LOCATION : Brooklyn, NYC, New York, USA Photo above is property of Beat The Bomb Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🎭 GAME : Paint Bomb Mission 📅 DATE PLAYED : May 22, 2024 🎬 GENRE : Immersive 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 3 ppl) : 4/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 4-6 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $51.76/ pp (with add-ons available) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎭 THE EXPERIENCE Walking down a side street in Brooklyn, we found Beat the Bomb tucked away behind some street construction. Entering the location, we were greeted at the front counter to sign in. We then headed to the locker area to put away all our belongings (or at least everything we didn’t want with us in the experience.) From there, we were sized up and given our Tyvek suits. If you are headed here for a date night, this is not a high heel, button up shirt kind of place. T-shirt and shorts, possibly even workout clothes is what you should be wearing. Beat the Bomb wasn’t an escape room but best described as a real-life video game. Each level of the " Paint Bomb Mission " consisted of different missions to complete that ranged from mental skills like memorizing patterns to physical skills like dodging lasers. " Hack Attack " - a communication game involving multiple screens, where players need to relay intricate information and instructions between computer terminals placed throughout the rooms. " Lazer Maze " - Engage in a high-tech evasion challenge to navigate through numerous laser patterns within a 10-minute timeframe. Players need to stay alert as the patterns evolve with each level and may even start to shift! " Echo Chamber " -A listening game designed to replicate entertaining sound patterns by utilizing RFID readers placed throughout the rooms. " Floor Grid " - Players in a motion-sensor-based movement game are required to stand on designated symbols on a grid while avoiding obstacles such as fireballs. " Cyberbot " - In the Paint Bomb Mission room game, participants need to navigate a virtual bomb robot through a challenging maze to obtain the 10-digit code required to disarm the Paint Bomb. Beat the Bomb wasn’t an escape room but best described as a real-life video game. Each level of the " Paint Bomb Mission " consisted of different missions to complete that ranged from mental skills like memorizing patterns to physical skills like dodging lasers. Our score in each room would earn us extra time for the final challenge, which was controlling a virtual robot through a maze and deactivating the Paint Bomb. Of course, even if you win, you can still get the paint bomb to activate and enjoy all the mess. One tip with the Tyvek suit was that its only purpose was not to get you messy with the paint bomb so we would recommend not wearing the top and tying it around your waist. Getting hit with a paint bomb is not the only way to end your experience here. They also have a foam bomb option and as we write this, a slime bomb option in the works. Even if the Beat the Bomb challenge isn’t your thing, they have a Game Bay, which you can reserve for your group to hang out. For an hour, you and your group can play mini-games similar to the ones in the Beat the Bomb challenge, which can be played competitively or cooperatively. Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯    HIT THE BULLSEYE The amount of time in each room was just right. As a group, we were able to make a strategy in the first few minutes and use that to complete the room. None of the levels overstayed their welcome as we were always ready and excited to take on the next challenges. Each level’s mission properly ramped up in difficulty. We were always able to complete the first couple stages with ease and get used to the game. After which, they would throw some curveballs and change it up to challenge us. This game is replay-able many times over. You can bring the same group of friends to try and beat your previous score or come with new ones to see what record you can set. The measures used to keep our own clothes clean but still letting you get messy was fantastic. The paint was easy to wash off with water from our hands and didn’t feel like it would soak through the Tyvek suits. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK There was one game we did have a little trouble completing because colors were a key part of the game and I personally have trouble with colors. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? Beat the Bomb's " Paint Bomb Mission " was a different type of experience from an escape room. This tested our physical and mental skills as well as our ability to work as a team. This experience is replayable which makes it a perfect get together with the same or different friends. Our group played with 3 people which worked well with some challenges but it would have been nice to have more for some of the other ones. Anyone who loves physical challenges or video games would love the experience here. Whether you win or lose at the end, the best part of the experience is simply to #getblasted at the end. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers ℹ️   ADDITIONAL INFO Street parking and parking garages nearby 5 minute walk from the F train, 10 minute walk from the A, C train, 15 minute walk from the 2, 3 train Flashing lights in the game Lobby with seating area and lockers for storage Game Bay available for its own activity or afterwards Free pin if you win Merchandise available for purchase Food and drinks (alcoholic & non-alcoholic) are 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 Beat The Bomb for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #MatthewLui #IRLEscapeRooms #ImmersiveExperiences #BeatTheBomb #PaintBombMission #Brooklyn #NYC #NewYork #USA

LOCATION : Joshua Tree, California, USA Photo above is property of Wild Heart Ranch Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Wild Heart Ranch 📅 DATE PLAYED : April 24-25, 2024 🎬 GENRE : Intergalactic Mystery 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : Up to 8 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 4-5 Hrs (Leisurely pace) 💰 PRICE : ~$325.00/ night - Highly variable, depending on dates (2-night minimum required, sleeps up to 8 ppl) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY After a long day of hiking in the desert, we went into the town of Twenty-Nine Palms to get some dinner and see about finding some lodging. We found a Mexican place (not that finding a Mexican place is hard in that part of the country; finding Thai would've been noteworthy) and tucked into hearty burritos loaded with beans, rice, and cheese, and slathered with a salsa verde that had to have been homemade. Our bellies full, we inquired about lodging options, knowing we'd need a dash of luck to find something reasonable on such short notice. The local motels were filled with tourists. As it was Spring Break week, that came as no surprise. Seeing our sunburned shoulders, the owner noted that we seemed to be familiar with the desert and wondered if we'd be up for the adventure of staying at a place outside of town, past where the pavement turns to dirt. We were grateful for any kind of accommodation and assumed it would be bare bones given the sandy surroundings, but he assured us there were a couple of well appointed, air conditioned buildings on the property, as well as a pool and hot tub! He gave us a few churros on the house and told us a bit about the place. Owned by the local Hart family for generations, it was rumored to be near the site of a UFO crash from sometime back in the mid-20th century. The Hart family (mostly the grandfather and his three grandchildren) were a motley crew of scientists and nature lovers, handy with tools as well as open to exploring the mysteries for which the desert is renowned. Our curiosity piqued, we headed out with a set of printed instructions. Something about the area tends to make modern day GPS go a bit awry and direct people into a so-called 'sand vortex'. We were skeptical, but decided he knew the area better than we did and we'd best follow his directions to a T. We headed out before sunset and found our way with ease following the directions given, also noting several pink WHR signs to help us on our way. Sure enough, upon entering through the wooden gate, we saw that the property had a pair of beautifully maintained, pet-friendly dwellings (able to sleep up to 8), along with a couple of locked ramshackle cabins (one sporting a jaunty neon sign saying Wild Heart Ranch), a fire-pit for nights when the wind is calm, and a vending machine stocked with a peculiar mix of food, drinks and, well, you should see for yourself. Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers When we entered the main home, we were greeted by the cool comfort of air conditioning and the sounds of old western tunes, some familiar and others foreign to us. As we looked around, we appreciated the incredible thought that had been put into the decorations. The collection of old books, the myriad games on shelves, and the old fashioned, yet fully functioning appliances were appealing to the eye and stimulating to the imagination. Even more interesting was the tastefully fascinating art on every wall, revolving around alien images, outer space, and a desert-nature vibe. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers We unpacked our bags and took a closer look. What unfolded over the next few hours as dusk gave way to the star-studded dark of a moonlit night was as unbelievably captivating as any great legend you could recall. Through the course of the evening, we followed clues leading us all around the beautiful property, discovering surprises inside and out. We determined the truth about the rumors the friendly restaurateur had shared with us, communed with powers heretofore unimagined, and assembled devices of such complexity we found ourselves bewildered as to whether the origin was a neighboring house, or a neighboring planet. The conclusion left us joyously fulfilled. Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers Our family has unlocked countless locks, solved many a mystery, and followed clues of all kinds, but our experience at Wild Heart Ranch will undoubtedly always be one of the most enriching, enjoyable, and rewarding that we've undertaken. With no time limit, we were free to explore at our own pace, pause and savor the seemingly endless string of surprises we discovered, and revel in the shimmering glory at the conclusion of it all. We didn’t want to leave. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? If you fancy an adventure unlike any other, you simply must find a way to visit the Wild Heart Ranch. You wouldn't believe what we found if we told you, so you're better off taking a leap of faith and trusting in the mix of ancient power and modern technology that comes together in a story-driven adventure so seamlessly integrated with the homes and landscape, you'll find yourself wondering if you're in a dream, or if, for the first time, you're truly awake. (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 Wild Heart Ranch  for providing a media discount on the tickets for this game. Although discounted admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #DaveBristol #ImmersiveExperiences #WildHeartRanch #Intergalactic #Mystery #California #USA

LOCATION : Syracuse, New York, USA Photo above is property of Museum of Intrigue Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Various 📅 DATE PLAYED : March 17, 2023 🎬 GENRE : Various 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 4 ppl) : Varies (~2-6/10) 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : Varies 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : ~30-90 Mins. per story 💰 PRICE : $18.00/ pp (for prologues, $31.00/ pp (for standards) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes (everyone does - nothing is timed and live actors can guide you as needed) The museum currently offers four Prologues (~30 mins) and 10 Standard (~60-90 mins) Stories. Each has a distinct backstory and theme, though they all co-occur in the same spaces throughout the 9,000 sq. ft. facility. Suggested number of players for these regular games ranges from 1 to 16, with a number of games requiring 4 or more participants. Some of the games for 4+ include the option of competitive formats and/or hidden roles for group members, so we weren't able to try them but are excited to come back! GAMES PLAYED "BFF" : An imaginary friend was accidentally left behind at the museum several weeks ago! Can you help him remember the name of his best friend and how to get home? A super cute and creative Prologue that is suitable for all ages, and the most appropriate Story for younger children. "The Treasure of Captain Williams" : This Prologue was one of our favorite Stories of the day, with lots of hands-on interactions. You and your maties need to follow a treasure map to find the lost chest and collect the booty – arrrrr! "A Voice in the Laboratory" : In this Standard Story, you are working to concoct a serum to save the Professor from his otherworldly imprisonment. We particularly enjoyed how the narrative played out in this one, as well as all the scientific gadgetry we had to calibrate in order to save the day. "The Toymaker" : It’s Christmas year-round in this Standard story, where you have to help find the pieces of the broken toy machine. A very sweet and endearing game! "A Robbery of the Intrigue Express" : In 1904, a major heist occurred by the infamous Billy Gang on the Intrigue Express, and it has long been suspected that they had an accomplice among the passengers on the train. It’s your job to figure out what happened in this deduction-style Standard game. "The Frame & the Fingerprint" : There’s been an art heist at the museum, and it’s up to you to crack the case! You get your own little CSI kit and explore nearly every part of the museum in this deduction-style Standard Story. "Cold Case" : The museum’s ill-fated 1967 Artic Expedition ended badly and mysteriously…can you find the missing artefact? We loved the varied mini-missions and the way you had to build up to solve some of them, as well as the ending. 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE The concept of the Museum of Intrigue is delightfully novel yet simple! The museum consists of a series of connected, themed environs (e.g., rainforest, library, pirate ship, lab), each filled with myriad objects. You select your Story, and are given a lanyard to designate what you are working on. This tells you how to begin, and also alerts the actors as to which game you are playing, so that they can respond or assist appropriately. In each game you are guided through a series of tasks or puzzles to meet a specific objective. You will end up finding and using objects from among many of the different environments for each game, so you are constantly walking back and forth between them, exploring the expansive space. We had to shift our mindset a bit from the typical escape room. Rather than rushing to each conclusion, we enjoyed being able to slow down and appreciate the journey and detail-rich environment. The puzzling is fairly light, so it feels a bit more like walking into an adventure, some of which incorporate excellent narrative twists. There is an incredible amount of stuff and multiple, different games are typically being run simultaneously, which could lead to disaster. However, clear signposting really helps to cut down on the overwhelm when searching, and the busy staff do an excellent job at constantly resetting items so that they are not out of place when you need them. (Many games only allow one group to play at a time for this reason.) And finding things that have been hiding in plain sight adds to some of the silliness and reward. Many times we found ourselves saying 'I can't believe I didn't notice that before!'. The museum is an excellent activity that can cater to groups of any size and people of many ages. Their games range from very sweet and simple - suitable for small children - all the way up to rather scary and 16-18+ (for some of their special events, like The Haunt). While it may not be a hit for all, we really enjoyed sharing the space with other groups playing other games. It added to the intrigue and curiosity about other Stories, gave us the “insider” perspective when they were playing something we’d already done, and just added some joy and cuteness in seeing the enthusiasm and discoveries of other groups. We very much enjoyed having a full day pass and seeing a shift in our experience as we progressed through the games. The first one did feel a bit overwhelming, being unfamiliar with the many spaces available and not fully sure what to expect. As we moved through the day, we were able to move far more quickly through the areas, though we often had “Oh! I saw that….somewhere…” moments. As we continued, we would also see items and puzzles from our previous game, which added to some of the fun of remembering our favorite moments. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK There is a lot of atmospheric lighting, but it quite often made it challenging to read or see numbers on combination locks or details on other items. These days, with most folks having a flashlight readily available on their phone, this is not a huge issue, but something to be prepared for. There were a small number of puzzles that could have been refined to make the answers a bit clearer, such as a distance of 6.5 which needs to translate to a whole number. However, this was a very small percentage of the large number of puzzles that we did across the games! We enjoyed the silliness involved in actor-assigned “side quests” you sometimes needed to accomplish to get them to help you with something. However, we did get the same one twice in a few hours, so having another option or two ready for folks there for multiple games would make sense. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? We had a fabulous day at the Museum of Intrigue and absolutely recommend it for anyone looking for some light-hearted adventures through an innovative approach. If you are looking for brain-burning puzzles, it likely won’t scratch that itch, as the games we played leaned towards searching and tasks with light puzzling. However, the sense of exploration, discovery, and narrative all drew us in, and there are a wide variety of Stories to choose from to suit your mood, timeframe, and group composition. If possible, we do encourage you to stay for multiple games - you will want to carry on to see how strange things you have found are incorporated into other stories. We are still dying to know what all the rubber duckies are for! It is a uniquely charming experience, and it certainly leaves us eager to return (and perhaps try one of their larger events)! If you're a parent looking to entertain, engage, and enthrall your kids, this is the place to go! And even if you're not a parent, you can still take your inner child to the Museum for a fabulous day of play. ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO The Museum of Intrigue is located on the 3rd floor of the Destiny USA mall in Syracuse, NY. Parking, food (both restaurants and food court fare), and other activities abound. There are bathrooms available both in the mall at large, as well as in the museum itself. The majority of the museum appears wheelchair-friendly, and there are escalators and elevators available to get you upstairs from the mall entrance. They have also partnered with KultureCity to create a Sensory Inclusive environment, training staff in making sure those with sensory needs and processing issues are welcomed and supported. They have sensory bags available at the front desk that can be borrowed for the duration of your time in the museum. There are a few areas where you can have a rest within the museum, and some merchandise for sale as well. In addition to the types of Stories that we played and have described here, they offer a wide range of special events for groups of all sizes (up to hundreds of people!), both at the museum and elsewhere. Photos above are property of Museum of Intrigue *** We regret to inform this company has closed its doors *** Disclosure : We thank Museum of Intrigue for comping our tickets for this experience. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion of the review whatsoever. #KristaJones #ImmersiveExperiences #MuseumOfIntrigue # #NewYork #USA

LOCATION : Yorktown Heights, New York, USA Photo above is property of Warner Bros. 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 EXPERIENCE : Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience 📅 DATE PLAYED : January 12, 2023 🎬 GENRE : Wizardry, Magical 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl) : N/A 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : N/A 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : Approx. 60-90 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $36.00 - $75.00/ pp (Ages 16+), $25.00 - $64.00/ pp (Ages 5-15) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Public 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : N/A We had an amazing time visiting Warner Bros.' " Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience " in Westchester, NY right before they closed the experience. The good news is that they are still open in Leesburg, Virginia until February 11th! To find out what to expect when you get there, check out our vlog below! Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers ** We regret to inform you that this experience is no longer available for booking at this location. Check the website for their available locations. (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 Hunt & Gather for comping our tickets for this experience. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion of the review whatsoever. #CiciCao #ImmersiveExperiences #Magical #Wizardy #HarryPotter #WarnerBros #ForbiddenForest #NewYork #USA