MagnificoEscaparium - LavalEscape roomIRLI have never spent so long writing a review for a game and couldn't work out why I couldn't find the words to do so and then it hit me; this is so much more than just a game. From the moment the experience starts you are truly transported into a world that exists outside of the mundane one you've left behind. The interactions between yourself and the characters and between themselves build a universe that you are truly a part of; you're not an observer, you are a fundamental part of their world. Obviously I won't give details, but the narrative is the richest I've experienced in an escape experience and the delivery of this was nothing short of expertly done. The characters were believable, endearing and powerful. You're possibly thinking, "why haven't you mentioned puzzles yet?! Is this just immersive theatre masquerading as an Escape Room?" In short, the puzzles are clever, varied, interesting and in-keeping with what is happening all the way through the experience. So... What are the negatives? I can think of just one. I can never experience this for the first time again and that genuinely makes me sad. There's a reason this has been voted as the #1 escape room in the world. I don't, for one second, regret the 14-hour round trip to play this game - I just worry that nothing else will ever be able to top it....
The DomeMama BazookaEscape roomIRLOf the 690 games I've played (still updating Morty if you wonder why there's a gap between my score and count!) The Dome sits firmly at #1. I can't say much without giving stuff away but there are sooo many 'ooh' and 'aah' moments, coupled with truly unique puzzles and an incredible set that simply puts this game in a league of its own for me. If you've not played, stop reading, book a train, bus, plane ticket or a new pair of walking boots and get there; sell your soul if you need to!
Molly's GameUntold Stories Experiences [prev. Down the Hatch]Escape roomIRLA beautiful room with excellent narrative and a myriad of 'wow' moments throughout. The use of sound and light was excellent and genuinely left me applauding as we exited the room. Superb.
Monster MashersTales of Torchdale - Monster MashersEscape roomIRLThis was a stand out game from start to finish. We played night mode and would absolutely recommend this mode even if you are a little bit on the scaredy side as otherwise I think you'd miss out on some very memorable moments!
Demise of the GricersEnteredEscape roomIRLThis game is truly unique. Not a typical escape room in terms of traditional puzzles (tbf, they tell you that on their website!) but my lord, what an experience! I've played this game twice now, the first time I was too scared to do anything and shut down. I've played plenty of scare rooms but the unique dynamic of this experience was so atypical that I didn't know how to deal with it and my brain said, "no" lol. Needless to say, the second time I was able to cope a lot more! The beauty of this is the replayability (without mentioning the ENORMOUS and unique set and number of actors...) and I would highly recommend heading back a second time if you didn't get to see as much as you could have the first time round....
The Vanishing ActEscape World - UtrechtEscape roomIRLThis was a hidden gem for us and stood out as a unexpected favourite from our recent trip. Some really well executed puzzles, imaginative ideas and interesting ways of presenting content. Definitely recommend if you're in area!
