This is another one of those fun organized activities you do as a group. We’ve already done Sleep No More and Accomplice The Show which are interactive theatres. This is more personal and more like an entertainment event to participate in.
It’s a little heady, and even though I consider myself fairly sharp, I was nervous that I wouldn’t be able to contribute much.
The location we participated in was in the warehouse section in Philadelphia and there was plenty of free parking around the building. Unfortunately the one we went to is closed now, but Escape the Room has stepped up to take their place.
Similar to Accomplice New York, they book groups of 10, filling in or combining people. Some experiences you want independently. However, this is one where you can easily have all 10 people in the group make a contribution significant enough to aid in the group’s “release”.
Our group included 6 of us (family) and 4 people we hadn’t met before. We were able to do some quick introductions.
After that the handlers gave us a quick understanding of what to expect. And the rules. Yes, there’s rules. Things like “You can’t rip anything off the wall if it’s affixed”. No sticking your chewing gum on anything. Basic stuff.
Then they ask if we’re ready and the clock starts.
The Escape Attempt
At first you have a false sense of security, because you’re thinking, we have an hour. The problem is, there are so many things to figure out that you never know you’ve succeeded or failed until you unlock the door to get out. Or they call time…
The various clues and props are well orchestrated in such a way as to both guide you and confuse you. Well, it feels like some things are misleading. Or at least ambigious enough to cause your brain to think in more than one direction. But that’s the fun of it!
Our group operated like finely tuned chefs in Hells Kitchen, or at least we thought we were. We were barking out what we each were doing or what we found in a way as for everyone to know. Somehow it all stayed somewhat organized, even though there were things we repeated.
We didn’t panic and were fortunate to get out before we had to be rescued…(the time was not too shabby!)
Very enjoyable experience!