An escape room or exit game is a physical adventure game in which players solve a series of puzzles using clues, hints and strategy to complete the objectives at hand. Players are given a set time limit to unveil the secret plot which is hidden within the rooms.
Some tips on playing escape rooms and exit games.
The more games you play, the better you will be! The first game you play, don’t expect to get out on time. As you play more games, and try out a variety of themes and styles, you will start to learn about how to look for clues and where to find them. You will understand the varieties of locks that are out there; reducing the time you spend just figuring out how to enter the answer into the lock. You’ll learn about word-number puzzles, and what parts of the room are made to move and which are not.
Choose your teammates wisely. You want to have a good mix of leaders and followers, those who prefer different types of puzzles, and people who are okay with yelling at each other! A lot of your success at an escape room game will come down to who is in the room with you. If you can interact with each other in high stress conditions, you should be fine. We definitely don’t recommend escape games for dates, particularly first dates.
If you are stuck on a puzzle and simply can’t figure it out, switch places with a group member. Fresh eyes are always important. Don’t be afraid to have someone try the lock once again. Comments of, “Oh I tried that already” don’t really work in escape rooms. Let someone else try as well! It might just make the difference.
Every puzzle master provides a set of rules and/or instructions before players begin. These may be given in the form of a paper you need to read, a speech, or a video to watch. Pay attention! These rules are important for a reason, and they may even give you some guidance on types of locks found inside the space. Unusual locks can trip people up, so if you hear the puzzle master mention something then listen!
The stunning Hinze Hall await the suspects
The search for Dippy
Natural History Museum is re-imagined in 1905
From the Casebook: The Search for Dippy - Natural History Museum
The year is 1905 and guests had been invited to a special preview of the newest display at the Natural History Museum - 'Dippy the Diplodocus'. But when the guests arrived the curators were in a panic... something was amiss! A note was found suggesting a crime was going to be committed! Hundreds of guests had to question suspects and track down the culprit before the King and notables arrived for the display's launch the following night. This escape room-like game had guests exploring the Museum after hours while they found clues and interviewed the six suspects, all of whom had something to hide. Which were lying and which were trying to help? The challenge was on!
