40 ThievesMindTrap Escape Room - TemeculaEscape roomIRLSuch a great set and puzzles were tricky. Rooms were BIG so even though we solved with two people, it would have been nice to have another since we really had to shout to hear each other across rooms for certain puzzles.
The Campground13th Hour Escape Room - WhartonEscape roomIRLWe love 13th hour and were SO excited when we heard about their 90min camp themed escape room! It was so cool and as immersive as their other rooms. It was so much fun, but we were very far from finishing even with a ton of clues. There were a few clues where the GM had to come and be physically evolved for us to complete them, so I would recommend they update the required number to 3+. Difficulty level is VERY accurate. That said, it’s brand new and they were clearly working out the kinks. I struggled with the special effects (very hot and smoky). There were two elements that were not functional. I’d recommend going in a few months at least once they get some elements perfected.
Wild Heart RanchWild Heart RanchEscape roomIRLWow! Incredible and unique experience. Not an escape room but more like a treasure hunt around the houses and property. Get ready for a gentle hike through the desert! We thought it would be all indoors and it was not so plan your schedule accordingly
The HellevatorEscape at the ShoreEscape roomIRLVery different room! We did this with two and I can’t imagine fitting another two into that space. We were already on top of one another so I would suggest you keep player numbers low if possible. Unique gameplay with some “mini games” within the story which were cool but unexpected and therefore confusing. Took a break from the typical escape game puzzles. Would return for another room here but not going on my top ten.
Viola's Room [Immersive Experience]PunchdrunkEscape roomOther Not exactly what I was expecting. I think the story was cool but it was a bit underwhelming overall. The first room/scene was the highlight for me but then it felt like a lot of the “experience” was just trying to squint and feel around in the dark more than actually experience something.
The Phantom of the Opera [Immersive Theater]MasqueradeEscape roomOther Masquerade is no escape room but an immersive theatre version of Phantom. I saw it during the third week of previews and it was a truly amazing production with twists and reveals from the first to the last moment of the show. Wear comfortable shoes! Even though there is a dress code (which everyone diligently followed) you will be potentially walking or standing for 2.5+ hours, walking up and down stairs, etc. I could not recommend this enough!
The AnomalyThe Other Tales Escape RoomsEscape roomIRLVery linear and fun plot line! Points off because felt the space was outdated (e.g. books were clearly roughed up, very minimal decorations and older facilities)