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LOCATION: Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA Photo above is property of Decode Detroit Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Around The World In 80 Days 📅 DATE PLAYED : May 30, 2024 🎬 GENRE : Adventure 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 3 ppl) : 7/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 5-16 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $33.00/ pp (Min. 6 ppl) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY Embark on a unique adventure with pilot MiLo as you travel to famous destinations worldwide. Can you return in 80 days and achieve the status of a genuine explorer? Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE I really enjoyed the introductory video and the quality of the sound and lighting. It reminded me of something you would see in a Disney production. Additionally, the sound and lighting changed as we moved to different locations. The attention to detail in the props used for each location was truly impressive. This adventure revolves around the concept of divide and conquer. However, there are instances where collaboration with your teammate is necessary to solve specific puzzles. It is crucial to adjust to this gameplay style and understand each player's strengths and weaknesses. The diverse range of puzzle types provided opportunities for every player to engage with tasks they excel in. Furthermore, the puzzles tailored to each location were contextually relevant, enhancing the overall experience. The concept of the trophy is similar to extra puzzles included in a room for enthusiasts. Even after solving the core puzzle, there are still plenty of other puzzles to tackle. The finale was equally remarkable. Let's just say they ended it with a BANG! We also observed the intricate details the designer put on the hot air balloon itself. Try to search for what I'm referring to when you play the game next time. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK Not sure if this is true or not, we noticed that the puzzles became increasingly challenging as we approached the finish line. Nonetheless, the allocated time at each location remains constant. If that is the case, perhaps the time allocation for each location could be adjusted? Other than that, we really enjoyed our short 1 hour tour on the hot air balloon. Sign me up for a 2 hour tour next time please! 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? Ever wonder what it is like to travel on a hot air balloon? Today, as you embark on this adventure, you are transported into a realm reminiscent of Jules Verne's fantastical journeys. Decode Detroit has masterfully crafted an immersive experience that transcends reality, inviting players to step into the realm of their imagination. Throughout this extraordinary journey, participants are whisked away to five distinct locations, each situated thousands of miles apart, all within the span of a mere 60 minutes. The sheer scale and diversity of these destinations mirror the epic adventures of Verne's characters, evoking a sense of awe and wonder at the vastness of our world. This experience is not just a game; it is a testament to the boundless creativity and innovation that can transport us to new worlds, sparking our curiosity and igniting our sense of wonder. ℹ️   ADDITIONAL INFO Note: We played this game with just 3 people and it was quite difficult to accomplish every puzzle (or even participate in every puzzle). If you want to score better and earn more trophies, we strongly suggest going with a bigger group. Free parking in front Lobby with seating and lockers 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 Decode Detroit for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #CiciCao #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #DecodeDetroit #Adventure #Michigan #USA

LOCATION: Sumter, South Carolina, USA Photo above is property of Lock, Clock, and Peril Escape Rooms Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Undercover Agents 📅 DATE PLAYED : July 12, 2024 🎬 GENRE : Spy, Thriller 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 6 ppl) : 5/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-6 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $30.00 - $35.00/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY As the newest recruits to the FBI, it's time to dive into your first challenging case. You and your team are tasked with infiltrating the secret laboratory of a nefarious scientist suspected of conducting morally objectionable experiments. Your mission is to search his office thoroughly for incriminating clues and vital evidence that can expose his unethical practices. Piece together the scattered information, solve intricate puzzles, and gather the necessary items to build a solid case against him, ensuring he is locked behind bars once and for all. Video above is property of Lock, Clock, and Peril Escape Rooms 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE The puzzles in this escape room stayed on theme most of the time and flowed well enough that our team of experienced enthusiasts were able to complete the room with ease. Although the puzzles are not easy, they are fun and engaging, providing just the right amount of challenge to keep players invested. One of the standout aspects of this game is how it strikes a perfect balance between challenge and enjoyment. The game does a good job not taking itself too seriously, which allows players to relax, enjoy the immersive atmosphere, and fully engage in the world that Lock Clock and Peril have created. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK One of the puzzles in the latter half of the game had the potential to be an absolute roadblock. This particular puzzle requires players to think outside the box, and compared to the rest of the game, it didn’t feel very in place. While the majority of the puzzles flowed well and were consistent with the theme, this one stood out as an anomaly. It disrupted the overall rhythm and could potentially frustrate players, hindering their progress. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? " Undercover Agents " is a fairly standard Gen-1 escape room. The puzzles generally support the storyline effectively, and most of the time, they are enjoyable and satisfying to complete. However, there were one or two puzzles that disrupted the otherwise smooth logic flow. Despite these minor hiccups, the experience was predominantly positive. As a team of six experienced enthusiasts, we managed to demolish the escape time and completed the room in just over 20 minutes. This quick completion doesn't imply that there isn't a full hour's worth of engaging activities within the room. The design is such that it offers a rich experience filled with intriguing challenges and immersive elements that keep players thoroughly entertained. " Undercover Agents " offers a fun and captivating theme, making it a delightful escape room adventure. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or new to escape rooms, this game is worth a play for its engaging puzzles and enjoyable storyline. The room strikes a good balance between challenge and entertainment, providing an hour of fun-filled mystery-solving. ℹ️   ADDITIONAL INFO Contains Color Puzzles Beverages Lobby with lockers for storage during games Prizes to win! Photos above are property of Lock, Clock, and Peril Escape Rooms (If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from " ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure :   We thank Lock, Clock, and Peril Escape Rooms for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #MikeSchnurr #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #LockClockandPeril #Spy #Thriller #SouthCarolina #USA

LOCATION: Poznań, Poland Photo above is property of Escape ARENA Poznań Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Vikings: Amulets of Power 📅 DATE PLAYED : May 18, 2024 🎬 GENRE : Adventure, Fantasy 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl) : 5/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-5 ppl (Ages 10+) 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 75 Mins. 💰 PRICE : 260-350 PLN ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY Ancient Viking legends foretell an imminent epic battle. Dark creatures will break free from their bonds, igniting the greatest war ever known. Odin and humanity will fall prey to the wolf Fenrir, and the world will be submerged into the ocean... Yet, a specific Scandinavian prophecy speaks of valiant warriors emerging from the south to rescue the world. Are you brave enough to fulfill this prophecy? Seek out the Amulets of Power hidden by Odin and prevent the world's annihilation! You have 75 minutes - don't let Fenrir consume you! 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE Exciting story telling from the Game Master (at least we were lucky to get a wonderful GM). She was very good in acting and telling us the story and our main task. Pretty interesting idea with Loki (game character) who always tried to spoil our game. First it was a little bit shocking, because we didn’t get the point, but when we realized that we are not the only people in the game, we started to have fun from all his tricks. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK Design set is something that needs to be improved. Some doorways are covered by pieces of fabric and do not look authentic. Rooms in general are recognizable but it is hard to describe them as beautiful Dark rooms. I can understand complete darkness when you play a horror game, but I can hardly understand it in games where you have to find something. There were five of us in the game and only three torches, so two people should have followed other teammates in order to see at least something. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? I would recommend this escape room for newbies and for people who like northern mythology. It can also be interesting for couples, because of the darkness and intimate atmosphere. ℹ️     ADDITIONAL INFO Free parking You can get to the game using local buses. Be ready to go from one room to another during the whole game. Lobby with a sitting area for 4-5 people. Toilet with all the necessary stuff in it. Escape room is on the ground floor. Easy to reach. Wheelchair accessible. Water available in the sitting area. Photos above are property of Escape ARENA Poznań (If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from " ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) #PaulShyshou #IRLescaperoom   #EscapeRooms  #EscapeARENA #Fantasy #Adventure #Poznan #Poland

Photo above is property of Little Rocket Games Company: Little Rocket Games Game: Insert Coin To Play Country: Italy 🇮🇹 Language: English Type of Game: Tabletop Game (Board Game) 📬 Genre: Video Game, Flip and Write Date Played: April 12, 2024 Difficulty (based on 3 players): 2/10 Size of Team: 2-8 ppl Time: 15 Mins. Price: $19.95 USD 🆃🅷🅴 🆂🆃🅾🆁🆈 Using the symbols, complete the levels and unlock their abilities. The player with the highest score at the end, wins! Video above is property of Little Rocket Games 🆃🅷🅴 ❞🅻🅾🅾🅺🆂❞ The box has a simple, 8 bit arcade machine on it with a simple design. Inside, you will find the instructions, a stack of GamePad sheets, some pencils, a quick reference guide for the shapes and a deck of cards. Photos above are property of Little Rocket Games 🆃🅷🅴 🅶🅰🅼🅴 🅿🅻🅰🆈 The goal of the game is to have the most points at the end, which you gain for completing your shapes, having coins, and having lives. You start the game by shuffling the cards and dealing 4 to each player. Each player chooses one and hands the remainder to the left. Rinse and repeat until each player has 3 cards. The shapes on the 3 cards will be the ones you will have to complete, which are considered levels. Trace those shapes onto your GamePad. Shuffle all the cards again and add in the 2 Game Over cards. You are now ready to play. Flip over a card and look at the bottom corners. Each side will have a symbol on it (which are different polyominoes). Choose one and color it in in one of your shapes. If you are unable to do that or choose not to use it, you lose a life and get to place a single block anywhere you want. If you run out of lives, you have to insert one of your 3 coins to get another 3 lives. When you turn up the first Game Over card, you must have completed 1 level by having one shape filled in. If you do not have a shape complete, you must insert one coin to continue. When you flip over the 2nd Game Over card, you must have completed 2 levels. Each shape also has an ability that gets activated once you complete it. These include getting to use both symbols on the next card or having other players lose a life. Some card’s ability will also give you a bonus if you pair them with another shape card. The game ends in one of 4 ways. When you run out of cards, when someone finishes all their shapes, when someone runs out of coins and lives or when someone cannot insert a coin when a Game Over card is flipped. The score is then tallied. You get 3 points for any coins left over, 1 point for any remaining lives and the amount that your shape is worth minus how many squares are left unfilled. Highest score wins! Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🆃🅷🅴 🆂🆃🆁🅰🆃🅴🅶🆈 There were a few strategies that worked for us in this game. I personally tried to take the symbol with the most blocks in the design and fill in one of the shapes as fast as possible. That worked for me for a few games but there were times when I would build myself into a corner. The kids would try to select the shapes that would work off each other and try to build them in a way that would get them the best bonuses. One thing for sure though, is we needed to know how to properly place the symbols to keep options open. We did not want to leave areas where no symbols would fit. One tip would be to make sure you get familiar with the symbols and what abilities would work off each other. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🅲🅻🅾🆂🅸🅽🅶 🆃🅷🅾🆄🅶🅷🆃🆂 " Insert Coin To Play " was a quick game that we played multiple times in each sitting. It was easy enough for the kids to get into but had enough variety for adults to enjoy. The nostalgic theme also added to the love of the game as well as the simple art style. We played with 4 people but since everyone plays at the same time and there is minimal interaction, I can see how this could easily accommodate 8 people. Anyone who likes simple flip and write games or has a love of 8-bit art would love to play this game. Insert Coin to Play will definitely hit the table many more times and we will happily insert coins to continue playing it. (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 #AtHomeGames #TabletopGames #BoardGames #PuzzleByMail #LittleRocketGames #VideoGames #Italy

Photo above is property of Thames & Kosmos Company: Thames & Kosmos Game: Targi: The Expansion Country: USA 🇺🇸 Language: English Type of Game: Tabletop Games (Card Game) 📬 Genre: Strategy, Worker Placement Date Played: April 14, 2024 Difficulty (based on 2 players): 5/10 Size of Team: 2 Players Time: Approximately 60 Mins. Price: $19.95 🆃🅷🅴 🆂🆃🅾🆁🆈 Targi is a two player only game, where each person takes control of opposing Tuareg tribes competing to become the most successful traders in the Saharan Desert. Who will accumulate the most wealth and prestige by collecting and trading the precious resources of the desert; dates, salt, pepper, and newly featured with the expansion, water? This review incorporates the expansion, aptly named ‘Targi: The Expansion’, which features the added resource of water, Dune cards, refined border cards, and a new figure, the Targai. Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🆃🅷🅴 🅶🅰🅼🅴 🅿🅻🅰🆈 The beauty of Targi is in its simplicity; quick to setup, fairly easy to teach, and intuitive to play. The game consists of a 5x5 grid of cards, the 16 cards running along the edges are predetermined cards known as border cards, which stay the same for each game. Each offers individual bonuses or actions. The 9 central cards consist of Goods and Tribal cards, which much like the desert sands, will constantly change throughout the game, offering players different bonuses or scoring opportunities. Players take turns placing one of their four targi meeples onto a border card (not including corner ‘raid’ cards), however you may not place your piece on a card either occupied by your opponent or the robber, or opposite your opponent. Once all pieces have been placed, players activate the rewards of their chosen border cards, plus they get to take the central cards which intersect with the row and column of their meeples. Tribal cards come with a cost, which you must be able to pay before playing. The cards offer both in game bonuses as well as end of game scoring and should be placed in their own 3x4 grid; once placed, these cards cannot be moved. The placement of the cards can be important to your end game point total depending on the conditions they require. If you can’t pay for the card immediately, you can keep one card in hand. To play it later, you need to have the resources and place a meeple on the Noble edge card. Goods cards offer an immediate resource, such as salt or dates, and are then discarded from play. The Robber moves clockwise around the border cards, starting from the first card, and blocks a different action each turn. He will also perform a raid whenever he visits a corner card, so be sure to have the necessary resources or you’ll have to pay with victory points. The new Targai figure, like the robber will move to a new card each turn, however she begins on card number 16 and moves counterclockwise. Players will receive a bonus whenever they choose to place a meeple on her space. Her addition to the game presents players with more choice when it comes to placing your meeples; perhaps a space you would not have initially desired suddenly becomes a more intriguing option because she (and her reward) are now on it. The Targai does offer a second reward to players; you may pay any one good to reveal and receive the top card from the Goods deck. If you don’t like the card, you can pay another good to draw the next card and receive this instead; this may be done as many times as you wish. Unfortunately, this reward is much weaker and almost never used, as you seldom get more out of it than you put in. The Dune cards are setup away from the main grid, three at a time. These cards offer significant abilities should you choose to go here; however, players will have to sacrifice making an intersection on the main board to do so. We loved this addition to the game, they offer so much more by the way of choice and strategy, which really mixes up the game play, making each play feel unique. The cards offer diverse and powerful options, but losing that intersection on the board can also be costly. We found that we almost always went to the Dune cards first, either because we wanted the ability for ourselves or because we didn’t want our opponents to get it. Sabotage at its best! The game finishes once either the robber reaches the last border card or a player places down their twelfth Tribe card. The winner at the end of the game is the player with the most victory points. Photo above is property of Thames & Kosmos 🆃🅷🅴 🅼🅴🅲🅷🅰🅽🅸🅲🆂 The game’s core mechanic is worker placement, players should use their meeples to not only maximize their potential resource haul, but to also limit and frustrate their opponent’s plans. Our games frequently feature plenty of expletives as one of us would undoubtably cut off the other, foiling their plans for that turn. Everything in the game, resources, victory points, tribal cards, is in full view, so you can likely predict what your opponent might want, and that’s one of the elements which makes the game so fun. Player interaction isn’t huge, but it is a meaningful component; whether you mean to screw someone over or not, it’s going to happen and on more than one occasion. Set collection and tableau building are important elements for maximizing your protentional victory point total. Long term planning and the ability to pivot, depending on which cards appear on the table, will give you a greater chance for success. Resource Management is another important aspect to the game, especially with the addition of Water, which is a powerful and rare commodity that acts a bit like a joker. Collecting resources is needed to not only buy Tribal cards, but to also protect your victory points when raids occur. Since Tribal cards filter through the game quite quickly it will be important to try and always have an even spread of resources, but less so when incorporating the expansion. Generating water affords players more options as they can be traded in for coins or goods, or used on their own. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🅲🅻🅾🆂🅸🅽🅶 🆃🅷🅾🆄🅶🅷🆃🆂 Despite being first published in 2012 (the expansion coming in 2016), this game still offers one of the best 2 player strategy gaming experiences. Each turn is tight and meaningful with impactful decision making which shouldn’t be affected too much by analysis paralysis. We found the first player switching varied how we would approach each turn, either by being proactive or reactive. On occasions I would sacrifice making an advantageous move for my game in order to disrupt my opponents turn, and she likewise to me. So, players should be aware that confrontation is an unavoidable aspect of this game. For our gaming tastes, we found the expansion to be a necessary part of the game now, and we’ll never play without it. In addition to the water, Dune cards, and Targai, it also refines several of the border cards and introduces a bunch of new Tribe cards which all contribute to producing a more variable and thoughtful gaming experience. Despite each game taking about an hour to play, we often found the time went quickly and that we wanted to play a second time immediately after. Check out our interview with the creators to understand more on the development side of the game: Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers (If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from " ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure : We thank Thames & Kosmos for providing us with samples of the game. Although a complimentary experience was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #RyanDriver #AtHomeGames #TabletopGames #PuzzlesByMail #OneOffs #Strategy #ThamesandKosmos #USA

LOCATION: Cayce, South Carolina, USA Photo above is property of The Final Door Escape Room Columbia Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Down The Rabbit Hole 📅 DATE PLAYED : November 14, 2021 🎬 GENRE : Fantasy 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl) : 5/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-8 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $29.99-44.99/PP (depending on day of the week) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY The Queen of Hearts has chased the Mad Hatter out of Wonderland into our reality! You must explore the different realms of Wonderland and figure out a way for him to return before it's too late and he will be stuck here forever! Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE You'll get a full performance with the GM in character (and outfit) at The Final Door. It really helps the player "pre-game" and get their mindset ready, especially for this game. The décor was literally CRAZY (if it's not enough craziness for you, put on those glasses). The glow in the dark lighting and fun drawings really bought out the whimsical theme. You probably would get lost in there but first you'll have to find your way IN first! (fun fact: Even their own GM gets lost in there during resetting!) We love the colors used to paint the outside and inside the room. It was like entering a "Alice in Wonderland" amusement park. You'll recognize all the cute characters from Alice and as you exit and enter into different "realms", you'll be faced with different challenges. Our favorite puzzle was the one that involved a little bit "magic". The reward at the end was also very satisfying. We have to keep this a secret though as the red Queen might chase us down if we "spill tea" here. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK One puzzle is a physical puzzle that does require some "luck" and technique as I can imagine some groups struggling with it since you'll have to hit a certain spot. We got lucky but we hope there is a bypass from the control room so the group doesn't get stuck here for too long as it's more of a one-two player type of puzzle. O ne puzzle had extra props that we didn't need in a "find and search" puzzle. It might be good to let players know ahead of time that there's no need to find the extra ones in case they waste time in that section. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? "Down the Rabbit Hole" is exactly what I was looking for in an "Alice in Wonderland" themed escape room. It was a mixture of physical and logic puzzles that kept us busy and entertained throughout the hour. Actually we really hoped that the game wouldn't end so fast so we can continue to explore this magical world. Being able to disguise and alter the players perspective of the real world is what we look for in an escape room. The Final Door Escape Room did an amazing job with this game and I'm sure players (especially kids) would have a blast in this room. And when Cici finally gets courageous enough, we're definitely going back to do their horror themed rooms! Please note: Some parts of " Down The Rabbit Hole " requires extreme crawling. We highly recommend wearing sneakers. This game is family-friendly and fun for all ages (5-99). No outside knowledge is required to complete this game. ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO There are free parking right next to the entrance. Lobby area with seating. Drinks and merchandise for sale. Party room available. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers (If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from " ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure : We thank The Final Door Escape Room Columbia for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #BrandonChow # IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #TheFinalDoorEscapeRoom #DownTheRabbitHole #AliceInWonderland #Wonderland #Fantasy #USA #SouthCarolina

LOCATION : Sylmar, California, USA Photo above is property of THE BASEMENT - A Live Escape Room Experience Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : The Courtyard 📅 DATE PLAYED : April 23, 2024 🎬 GENRE : Horror 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 4 ppl) : 6/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 1-8 ppl (ages 12+) 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 45 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $38.00 - $42.00/ pp (Min. 2-4 ppl required. depending on day of the week) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY You'll learn more about Edward Tandy as you work through their rooms - suffice to say, he had a very difficult and dark upbringing by a single mom with a penchant for cruelty and a tendency to practice taxidermy on the family pets. At this point in the story, you've escaped the basement in which Edward had imprisoned you, survived the elevator shaft, and made your way through the study. You're on the verge of freedom! You just have to get out to the porch, through the courtyard, and escape through the gate! If only it was as easy as it sounds… 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE The creep factor is in full effect from the moment you enter the room. It's dark and there are strange noises coming from…somewhere! Focusing is going to be tricky. The courtyard itself is surprisingly large and has some impressive set pieces - properly dilapidated, of course. There are a couple of opportunities for members of your crew to push themselves and embrace the fear. The live actor interactions are high quality, adding a fresh and unpredictable element to the room. They are also skilled at improvisation, allowing your group to play and adding an extra dimension to the experience. They are on your side! There was one unique puzzle that did a wonderful job blending the improv skills of the live actor with the solve, adding both realism and entertainment, as well as pressure to succeed! The horror (including mild jump scares) is atmospheric and fully incorporated into the story, rather than simple gratuitous gore or screaming for little reason. This helped to make it a room that even Krista, who is not a horror fan, could enjoy and appreciate. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK Dim, sepia toned lighting made a color-based puzzle needlessly difficult. While not relevant for our group of 3, the start of the game could be cramped for larger groups, before the world expands into the expansive courtyard. Reveals weren't always telegraphed, resulting in occasional confusion as to whether something had happened or not. There were a few instructions that implied a couple of things needed to be done that weren't actually doable. Don’t stress about fully accomplishing these. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? If you want to try an atmospheric horror room without getting grabbed, screamed at, and covered with blood, this is a great room to tackle! This is considered to be one of The Basement’s less scary experiences, but it still delivers on the creep atmosphere, some scares, and a satisfying conclusion - if you are able to escape Edward's clutches! It can please a crowd or a smaller group. Whether you want to play mad scientist, squeeze yourself into dark spaces, or have fun playacting with the live actor, this room has something for you. ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Free parking available right in front of the building, which was easy to find, just next door to the adult store. The entrance itself is right on theme! The lobby has a number of fun touches, like the subtly detailed numbers on the lockers, a bloody mannequin, and story-specific decorations to flesh out the backstory. They have merch available, as well as drinks. All four of their rooms comprise a single, larger adventure, so they have some background info to introduce you to a couple of the main characters. To facilitate this, they have special immersive experience packages for playing all four in one day! However, you don't have to play them in order (we played the fourth chapter, and then the second), as each room stands on its own as an experience and no knowledge of the other rooms is needed to be successful. Even the GMs have a slightly peculiar, yet welcoming, nature. The owners and GMs were kind and generous about reassuring us that the goal is to have fun, not to terrify everyone. There are panic buttons in each area if someone is overwhelmed, and they were happy to chat with us about points of concern ahead of time. From start to finish you are in for a spooky experience with unexpected surprises lurking everywhere. 🔎   HINT Some things are seen, but not heard. Others are heard, but not seen. Both have something to offer! Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers (If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from " ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure : We thank THE BASEMENT: A Live Escape Room Experience for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #DaveBristol #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #TheBasement #ALiveEscapeRoomExperience #Horror #California #USA

Our first ever "My Pet Detective" event had an amazing turn out! Thank you everyone for your participation! We had 26 submissions from all over the world competing for three rounds with over 5000+ votes and finally..... here are your 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners! Click below to view the "My Pet Detective: CROWNING CEREMONY"!! Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers Thank you to all our sponsors! We couldn't have done it without you! Proceeds of this even will be donated to PetLove (because we care and want to make better homes for our best friends). ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ If you have any comments, feedback, suggestions for this years event, please email us. We love to make next year better! * RAFFLES & PRIZES: ​ First Place: $300 CASH & custom pet statue by Bond's 3D Studio (value at $475) Second Place: $150 CASH & a box full of toys and treats from BarkBox Third Place: $50 CASH & 3-month subscription VetPet Box (US only) or KitNipBoxes (US & Canada) – If you’re not in these countries then we’ll add another $50 cash instead of the subscriptions. *All Winners will also receive case 1&2 from  Joy Swift's Original Murder Mystery Investigations ​ ** CHARITY: Besides the cash prizes for the winners, all remaining proceeds will be donated to The Petco Foundation . #CiciCao #MyPetDetective2021 #Articles #Events

LOCATION: New York City, New York, USA Photo above is property of PanIQ Room NYC Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Moonshine Madness 📅 DATE PLAYED : May 20, 2024 🎬 GENRE : Western, Adventure 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 3 ppl) : 6/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-8 ppl (Ages 10+) 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $69.95/ pp (2 ppl), $49.95 (3-4 ppl), $44.95 (5-7 ppl), $39.95 (8 ppl) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY Having entered a speakeasy in 1920 NYC, you and your group are stumbling to find your way out. It seems like the only way is to mix their famous drinks and hope to see visions that will be your ticket out of here. Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE The set design was amazing and immersive, from the distilling barrels to the wooden interiors to the metal safes. There were some amazing props as well to simulate a speakeasy and the use of them as puzzles was fantastic. The puzzles were all set around a speakeasy theme and blended into the environment flawlessly. The story was fun and lighthearted, which set the tone for a good time in this room. There were a lot of reveals and eureka moments as we progressed that continued to keep us excited and engaged. There were 2 puzzles specifically that had some cool tech behind it. The puzzles were clued well but still surprised us with what needed to be done. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK Overall, this was a solid room with no major issues. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? " Moonshine Madness " was a fun experience with some surprises along the way. The puzzles were clever and the props used for them set the ambiance in the room. There was some fun tech which led to some great eureka moments along the way as well. We played with 3 but there was room for up to 6 to enjoy the party. Anyone who enjoys a speakeasy theme or some creative puzzles would enjoy this game. Will your group “shine” in this room or find it “staggeringly” difficult to escape? 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 PanIQ Room NYC (formerly Clue Chase) for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #MatthewLui #IRLEscapeRoom #EscapeRoom #PanIQRoom #Western #Adventure #NYC #USA

LOCATION : New York City, New York, USA Photo above is property of Exit Escape Room Miami Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Mob Heist 📅 DATE PLAYED : May 20, 2024 🎬 GENRE : Heist 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 6 ppl) : 6/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : Up to 8 ppl (Ages 9+) 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $37.00/ pp (pending on group size and date) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY You and your team of thieves have learned that Mr. Papalone, the Mob Boss, is hiding the money from a recent bank heist in the basement of his pizzeria. Knowing when Mr. Papalone is headed to a meeting, your group decides to sneak in to try to extract the money before he gets back. Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE This experience had some nicely executed tech and non-tech puzzles, that seamlessly blended into the environment and were enjoyable to find. There were some eureka moments that caught us off guard and made us smile once we were able to solve the puzzles to them. There were clever props used for puzzles that felt like they belonged in the game and made the experience better. The set design hit the mark with the pizzeria theme with so many perfect props to top off the room. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK This was a solid room that had no major misses in it. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? " Mob Heist " was an engaging game with creative props that blended into the game as well as the puzzles associated with them. The puzzles provided us with a lot of great eureka moments and the room design was on point with a pizzeria. We played with 6 people and found that anymore would get tight. Heist fans and people who love clever puzzles would enjoy this game. Are you ready to get in on a “pizza” the action? ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Lobby with seating Located on the 1st Floor of the Building Wheelchair accessible game Walking distance from Time Square, Herald Square and Penn Station Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers Check out our YouTube video for a sneak peek of the location, an interview with the co-owner, the room(s) (no puzzle spoilers) and more: Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers (If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from " ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure : We thank Exit Escape Room NYC for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #MatthewLui #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #ExitEscapeRoomNYC #Heist #NYC #USA

LOCATION : New Orleans, Louisiana, USA Photo above is property of Escape My Room Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Mardi Gras Study 📅 DATE PLAYED : March 27, 2024 🎬 GENRE : Mystery 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 5 ppl) : 5/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-8 ppl (Ages 16+) 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $143.38 (2 ppl) - $327.26 (8 ppl) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY As investigators delving into the mysteries of the DeLeporte mansion once more, you've been entrusted with a peculiar task by the enigmatic headmistress, Odette. She's beseeched your help in locating a cherished item of great significance to her, though she remains tight-lipped about its nature. What she does reveal, however, is the immense value attached to this elusive object, hinting at its potential to unlock a portion of her vast fortune. With just 60 minutes at your disposal to scour the room where the item was last seen, the pressure is on to uncover its secrets and secure your reward. Video above is property of Escape My Room New Orleans 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE Once more, the scenic design within these rooms maintains the same level of elegance as the lobby and other areas of the venue. Intricate dioramas and meticulously crafted set pieces captivate the eye and demand interaction to progress through the game. Each corner reveals new details, from antique furnishings to carefully placed props that contribute to the immersive atmosphere. Amidst these stunning visuals, we encountered a puzzle that, while offering a seemingly simple solution, was presented in such a captivating manner that our group was utterly enthralled by it. The attention to detail and creativity in puzzle design truly elevated the experience, making every interaction feel like a discovery waiting to unfold. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK Later in the room, we encountered a few props that showed signs of wear and tear, making them difficult to decipher. This presented a significant challenge, particularly when attempting to solve one specific puzzle. With letters rubbed off and obscured details on the prop, determining the correct solution became a daunting task. As a result, our group experienced a significant standstill as we grappled with deciphering the worn props and progressing through the final puzzle. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? The " Mardi Gras Study " room at Escape My Room harkens back to the venue's early days, showcasing traditional lock and key puzzles that have become staples in escape room design. While it retains its status as a solid addition to the industry, its age is evident, suggesting that a rejuvenation may be necessary to keep up with evolving player expectations. Within the room, puzzles varied in their appeal, offering a mix of physical challenges and logical conundrums to keep players engaged. However, despite the diverse puzzle types, our group found the overall decor somewhat lacking in charm, longing for more immersive elements to enhance the experience. Despite these minor shortcomings, Mardi Gras Study remains a worthwhile endeavor, offering unique challenges and an opportunity to step back into Escape My Room's early history. ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Ample street parking, some free. Merchandise and board games for sale. Photos above are property of Escape My Room New Orleans (If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from " ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure : We thank Escape My Room New Orleans  for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #MikeSchnurr #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #EscapeMyRoom #Mystery #Louisiana #USA

LOCATION : New York City, New York, USA Photo above is property of The Great Gotham Challenge Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Central Park Sprint 📅 DATE PLAYED : July 20, 2024 🎬 GENRE : Puzzle Hunt 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 4 ppl) : 7/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : Up to 4 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 1.5 - 2 Hrs. 💰 PRICE : Starting at $100 + Fees ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private ( you play with your own team) 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE EXPERIENCE We are returning to challenge ourselves with another GGC event! The previous one we participated in was the " GGC MMXXIII " which is one of their primary events lasting longer in terms of hours. This one is a condensed version taking place on Saturdays throughout the summer. Make sure to visit their website for additional details, as they organize similar events at different locations across the city. The challenge commenced at 1 PM. There was a slight breeze at the start, but it became warmer as the event progressed. While our team took the leisure route, other competitive teams immediately "sprinted" when the game master shouted "GO!" As usual, each team received an envelope that was simultaneously opened by all teams. For this challenge, there is no need to download any apps. Instead, your team will access a designated website to discover clues, input solutions, and request hints. The website is synchronized for all team members, meaning that when one member uses a hint or submits a solution, it updates for the entire team. Each puzzle offers multiple hints, and the time penalty varies based on how quickly you request a clue. You have the option to skip directly to the clue you need, but remember that you can only backtrack one clue, so proceed with caution. Depending on your team's objective (casual or competitive), you may want to strategize when to seek hints. Additionally, a walkthrough is available for each puzzle if you are unable to solve it even after receiving the final clue, but this option incurs the highest penalty. We found that the puzzles in this abridged version were easier compared to the full-length game. Once we solved the first puzzle, we were well on our way to the secret destination. We noticed that dividing the teams in different locations in this challenge was more difficult, leading to multiple instances of us bumping into other teams looking for the same clue. There were a few unexpected encounters with individuals that made us question whether they were part of the game, but it was thrilling to discover that they were indeed involved. Some hidden spots impressed us, especially considering the high volume of visitors to this popular location. One of the puzzles we enjoyed the most required us to hone our senses and find how the clue seamlessly integrated with the natural environment, showcasing the puzzle creator's ingenuity in crafting a such a puzzle. One minor note I would like to point out to the creators is to consider the actions required of players in a crowded setting, as some activities could potentially inconvenience those around them. For instance, obtaining one of the clues posed a challenge for us in a highly congested area. Overall, we had an absolutely fantastic time and got a ton of exercise in! We were treated to a special keepsake and a delightful bag of picnic goodies. The treats were incredibly delicious, and I am eager to explore more experiences with GGC just for the food alone! Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Your meet-up location will be provided on your ticket. The game will proceed rain or shine (unless you receive additional information from the organizer). You'll be able to get to every location by foot. Materials you might need that could help with the puzzle hunt: notepad, pen, clipboard, cellphone, cellphone charger, water, comfortable walking shoes, umbrella, light raincoat, and sunglasses. (If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from " ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure :   We thank The Great Gotham Challenge for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #CiciCao #IRLPuzzleHunts #PuzzleHunts #ScavengerHunt #TheGreatGothamChallenge #NYC #CentralPark #USA

LOCATION: Hoffman Estates, Illinois, USA Photo above is property of Panic Escape Room Games Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Arkham Asylum: Riddlers Escape 📅 DATE PLAYED : May 31, 2024 🎬 GENRE : Sci-Fi, Superhero 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl) : 9.5/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 4-12 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $79.99 (2 ppl) - $379.89 (12 ppl) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY In the absence of your tour guide and with Arkham on lockdown, the Riddler has seized the chance to hold your group captive. He has devised a scheme to ensnare the caped crusader, but can you crack his riddles, thwart his schemes, and rescue yourselves? Or will you end up as permanent inmates of Arkham Asylum? Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE In this room, you will discover many entertaining Easter Eggs related to Batman and his adversaries, yet solving the puzzles will not necessitate any external knowledge. The game begins in the main area of a police station, presenting you with a dual mission: infiltrate and then escape. The puzzles were designed in some creative ways using the props in the room. We appreciate the incorporation of character references and familiar items. The last puzzle certainly got our adrenaline pumping, especially as we were running out of time. Improving the design of the prop to make it easier to maneuver would enhance the overall finale experience. This room was filled with a large number of puzzles, physical keys, and locks, perfect for those who enjoy this type of game play. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK Before the game starts, the Game Master should let the player know the maximum number of attempts allowed for a digital lock in a room in case it becomes locked out. The room didn't have a cohesive narrative. The puzzles seemed disjointed, giving the impression of being a series of unrelated challenges. An input device in the room has the potential to malfunction, which could lead to delays for the players if left unresolved. Certain props require updating. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? Whether you are a fan of Batman or not, this heroic adventure transcends mere entertainment; it challenges your intellect and teamwork skills to the core. As you step into the room, you are immediately confronted with a myriad of intricate puzzles meticulously crafted by the cunning Riddler. To conquer this formidable challenge, it is highly recommended to assemble a team of at least four individuals. Collaboration and coordination are key in deciphering the enigmatic messages left behind by the elusive villain. Panic Escape Room prides itself on its captivating movie themes. Whether you prefer the adrenaline-fueled world of action heroes or the enigmatic allure of suspenseful mysteries, Panic Escape Room caters to a wide range of interests. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers ℹ️   ADDITIONAL INFO Free parking in front Large event room Located down one flight of stairs 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 Panic Escape Room Games for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #CiciCao #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #PanicEscapeRoomGames #SciFi #Superhero #Batman #Illinois #USA

LOCATION: Tannersville, Pennsylvania, USA Photo above is property of Big Screen Escapes Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Escape Like It's '99 📅 DATE PLAYED : May 28, 2024 🎬 GENRE : Retro 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl) : 5.5/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-13 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins 💰 PRICE : $99.00 (2-3 ppl) - $396.00 (13 ppl) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY Can you recall anything from the 90s? What about those wild parties? This time, you went overboard with partying and found yourself stranded in the suburbs with no way to return. Could a lost opportunity in love be the key to finding your way home? Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE The room includes items such as cassette tapes, VHS tapes, and Pokémon/baseball cards as part of the puzzles, creating a nostalgic 90s atmosphere that truly immerses the players in that era. These objects may already appear like puzzles to Generation Z. The visual puzzle presented at the start of the game was quite impressive. This room is a Gen-1 setup featuring primarily locks and devoid of modern technology. It seems to align with the 90s theme we are in. My favorite element of the game was undoubtedly the old computer. Only those who experienced the 90s would truly understand and value the applications on it. It was fascinating to uncover the puzzles hidden within this device, which was once considered cutting-edge technology of that era. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK At this stage, certain props in the room may need to be secured in place or replaced due to the wear and tear caused by the players. The vintage phone that was used for clues in this game was a fun prop, but perhaps the GM could have a backup ready? We encountered a situation where, due to low battery, we were unable to call out for hints over the phone. One of the areas that was meant to be a "secret reveal" needs to be redesigned since we were able to see it clearly without completing the intended task of uncovering it. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? Arriving in the US in the 1990s, I found myself reminiscing about the past as I explored this room. While searching for clues on the computer, the jarring dial tone brought back memories of the lengthy process of connecting to AOL back in the day. If you're looking to revisit your childhood memories, be sure to visit and see what they have in store. Big Screen Escapes is dedicated to maintaining their retro themes and intertwining the narratives of their rooms. For an even deeper trip down memory lane, explore their other location that will transport you back to the 1980s! ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Parking available on site Lobby area features merchandise, games for sale, and a detailed leaderboard displaying recent completion times A polaroid team photo is provided after each game Complete the interactive video puzzles on the website for a discount code! Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers Check out our interview with the creators to understand more on the development side of the game: Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers (If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from " ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure : We thank Big Screen Escapes  for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #CiciCao #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #BigScreenEscapes #Retro #Pennsylvania #USA

Photo above is property of LockMe Company: LockMe Game: Side Quest: Nemesis Country: Poland 🇵🇱 Language: English, Polish Type of Game: Tabletop Game 📬 Genre: Horror, Sci-Fi Date Played: June 1, 2024 Difficulty (based on 1 player): 5/10 Size of Team: 1-4 ppl Time: Unlimited (Approx. 60-90 Mins.) Price: 16,00 € 🆃🅷🅴 🆂🆃🅾🆁🆈 As Captain Jessica Kowalski, you have been assigned a Recon and Receive mission by the corporation. A ship has drifted off into space, and its crew is no longer responding. Your goal is to check on the status of the crew, but more importantly, secure the cargo and send it to Earth by any means necessary. Upon arrival at the spacecraft, an eerie quiet greets you. Biohazard lights are flashing, hinting at something ominous on board. It's up to you to quickly retrieve the cargo and escape. Who knows what you might encounter on this haunted vessel? 🆃🅷🅴 ❞🅻🅾🅾🅺🆂❞ The game features stunning artwork that enhances the experience, with each image effectively conveying puzzle elements while being visually engaging. The illustrations are not just functional; they are a pleasure to look at and contribute significantly to the atmosphere. The sense of looming threat and the eerie solitude of being "alone" on the spaceship are masterfully reflected in the artwork, immersing players in the unsettling environment. In terms of components, the game includes several physical puzzles where you need to move items back and forth, adding a tactile element to the experience. The most standout feature, however, is the use of the game box itself as part of the gameplay. This clever integration not only provides a wonderful centerpiece to the experience but also further immerses players into the world, enhancing the overall adventure. Photo above is property of LockMe 🆃🅷🅴 🅶🅰🅼🅴 🅿🅻🅰🆈 It’s time to explore the ship. By placing the cards out in a ship's design, you must navigate through different areas to bring life support systems back online. The more you explore, the more threatening the adventure becomes. Most locations will present you with a brain teaser via an event card that can change the ending depending on your accuracy. Once you solve all the riddles and puzzles to escape the spacecraft, you'll need to evaluate your actions to see which ending you receive. Solving each puzzle is ingeniously designed to produce an answer sheet. In front of you, there are ten wooden planks and a large matrix filled with a variety of symbols. When you think you've found the correct code, you physically place the planks on the grid to complete the symbols. If the symbols on either side of the planks match and you arrive at a finishing number for a card, you have successfully completed the puzzle. This intuitive game system is quite refreshing, offering a unique design and ease of use that makes the experience enjoyable and engaging. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🆃🅷🅴 🅿🆄🆉🆉🅻🅴🆂 In " Side Quest: Nemesis ", players will encounter a blend of physical puzzles and logic riddles. As your group progresses through the game, you'll face a variety of challenges—some straightforward, while others require more brainpower and creative thinking than initially expected. Each room in the space station contains clues for overarching puzzles that you'll need to solve eventually, and these are incredibly engaging. However, upon entering each room for the first time, you'll trigger an event card. Sometimes these cards present riddles, but more often, they introduce puzzles that may feel like you’re guessing due to insufficient information. These are the most challenging puzzles in the game, as they often involve significant logic leaps. Once you've activated enough systems to bring life support online, your goal is to escape. However, the outcome depends on how well you explored the ship and handled the events. The puzzles throughout the game influence the ending, allowing you to evaluate your performance only after you’ve made your escape. Photos above are property of LockMe 🅲🅻🅾🆂🅸🅽🅶 🆃🅷🅾🆄🅶🅷🆃🆂 " Side Quest: Nemesis " is an excellent puzzle game that serves as an engaging introduction to the popular board game series. Drawing inspiration from classic sci-fi horror themes reminiscent of Alien, it carves out a unique narrative with distinctive themes and creatures, providing a fresh and immersive experience. Fans of the sci-fi genre, particularly those who enjoy suspense and mystery, will find this game highly enjoyable and captivating. The game offers a variety of puzzles, ranging from physical components to intricate logic-based riddles. This diversity ensures that there is something to cater to every player’s preference. The physical puzzles involve manipulating objects or exploring the environment creatively, adding a tactile dimension to the gameplay. However, some event card puzzles involve significant logic leaps, requiring more outside-the-box thinking. Despite this, the majority of the puzzles are well-designed and provide a satisfying sense of accomplishment when solved. The artwork is another standout feature, with each card and component beautifully illustrated to convey both the puzzle design and the atmospheric setting. As players progress through the game, they will encounter various rooms within the spaceship, each offering clues for overarching puzzles that must be solved to escape. These overarching puzzles are some of the most enjoyable aspects, fostering teamwork and critical thinking. Overall, Side Quest: Nemesis excels in both its thematic presentation and puzzle variety, making it a must-play for puzzle enthusiasts and sci-fi fans alike. (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 LockMe for providing us with samples of the game. Although a complimentary experience was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #MikeSchnurr #AtHomeGames #TabletopGames #PuzzleByMail #LockMe #Horror #SciFi #Poland