This was our 44th escape room (with a couple of replays) and the second time we've played Foster's Fortune (the previous time was 3+ year ago when we played with only 3 players, so it was like we were playing it for the first time). We were reminded why The Mystery Mansion (and their satellite, Escape Unknown) are the best in town.
This time we played with 6 people (including 2 first-timers who excelled), which worked well for a non-linear game with as many clever and diverse clues as this game has. We were "on" tonight and able to finish the room with 13:37 remaining, and inadvertently skipped two locks but were able to bypass them and complete the room anyway. Our game master (Chris) provided one set of hints on a specific puzzle, but also helped explain (during the game) a couple of things that happened when everyone didn't see a specific puzzle get solved. That added to the experience since we weren't all in the same place at the same time. The room has some unique and interesting puzzles and everything worked well (the Mystery Mansion seems to take pride in being the best in Little Rock). The game master described Foster's Fortune as their 3rd hardest room (of 8, including Escape Unknown) and despite our escape we experienced a definite challenge. Another excellent Mystery Mansion experience!
The room is non-linear, but still flows well. There are a number of diverse puzzles throughout the room, and some unique clues. As challenging as it is it is not so difficult that fun suffers.
Very immersive for the story. Everything seems natural which adds to the challenge of having to extract subtle hints in the room. The props added to the story.
Our game master Chris was excellent. He took extra time at the end to answer questions about parts some of us missed as we were spread around the room. He clearly takes pride in his job, and is passionate about the games, which is contagious and adds to the experience.
Particularly interesting or different
No
As good as the story and room are, they are relatively standard. That in no way detracts from the enjoyment.
Our game master (Chris) did an excellent job at the beginning of bringing us into the scenario. Sometimes it seems hokey, but it always adds to the experience.
The clues themselves were clear but challenging, and since the room is non-linear it helped to have different people working in different areas (because we could). Communication worked well and we were able to come to a team solution on each puzzle. The number of clues and the diversity make this game a challenge to complete in 60 minutes.
Lots of locks, but a couple of unique tech areas in the game. Well done!
With 6 we were able to work the entire room. Any more would have been crowded, and any fewer would have required a lot more individual solving.
The puzzles were all solvable with good communication & observation. No adult or scary themes. There is just a lot going on requiring a good amount of focus.
Physically active
Somewhat
Clues are spread out, and there is a lot of movement, but nothing too extensive.
Accessibility
Some reaching, but mobility shouldn't have been an issue. Good lighting and good sound.
