The Alchemist

I recently played 18 of the best rooms across Benelux and this was my favorite; it is definitely in my top 4 all time and I will have to think hard about whether it’s actually #1. This room has it all: beautiful set, great puzzles, wonderful GMing, a good story, a couple of huge wow moments, and a nice souvenir. I cannot understand how it’s not in the top 10 in TERPECA. If somebody was asking me what a perfect escape room looks like, I’d just have them play The Alchemist.

Allow me to start by saying I've seen grand beautiful escape room sets before. This was certainly in that category, but never have I interacted with a set like I did this game. I will simply say that you will ABSOLUTELY know when you have solved something. The puzzles are lovingly crafted, in theme and distinctly unique. This game is a cinematic masterpiece. A living work of art. It brings me back to the old MYST games on PC, but brought to life. As an escape room designer, no game has ever inspired me on the level of this game. This experience makes me want to reach to a higher standard. The only appropriate response I have to Sherlocked and their amazing team is....thank you.

Hollyyyyy set design! From smaller puzzle elements to larger set pieces, every component is made with the most gorgeous, high quality materials - it really feels like you’re walking into a genuine library! During our post-play chat with the GM, he explained that the room took four years to create due to all the custom elements - and this really shows in every detail. It also takes place inside a historic trade building which lends to the atmosphere. So, from the get go, when your GM picks you up in character to when you step in the room… you’re fully immersed. Without spoiling anything, my two favourite moments included the bespoke medallion (and souvenir) created in-game, and the impressive tech, music and lighting during the grand finale. Simply exceptional!

The two things an escape room needs to be memorable are a beginning that hooks you right away and an ending that leaves you in awe of what you just accomplished. This room has both. It turns out that everything between the beginning and the ending is also great. The level of craft and engineering that went into the set and the props is incredible. There are at least two elements of this room that I have never seen done in an escape room and I think I am unlikely ever to see them done anywhere else. This is simply a must-play.

The set and a few key components of the set are what stand out as exceptional, with some major wow moments. Truly beautiful.

Absolutely stunning room. Worth a trip to Amsterdam just for this room, no matter where you live!

Fantastic looking Room. A must do

Wow, wow, wow, this room was exactly the sort of thing we look for in an experience - such a beautiful space, solid + satisfying puzzles, and some incredibly moving moments throughout. Easily an all time fave! We were able to do the room as two people, and got out with time to spare. Our GM was incredibly passionate, the experience started as soon as we arrived, and the keepsakes are so special!

This room has some really fun puzzles, but nothing too difficult. We actually finished with 30 minutes left (and no clues). There were a couple really cool moments that will stick with us (including the finale, and the cool souvenir!). The only wish I would have is some more puzzles. When it finished, we were actually a little shocked that there wasn’t more, especially for a game that is marketed as 90 minutes.

What do you even say? Incredible and world-leading scenic. Giant practical effects that hide a lot of technical prowess. Breathtaking. The puzzles themselves are not the highlight, though the interactions you do are tremendous. Must do in every way.