This is one of those games where you will play and then want to play again just to go back and see what you missed. Every single item in this game has been hand-crafted for the world they have created and the attention to detail is incredible
The Real Escape: The Western Job (Portsmouth)
I can see why people praise this game. It’s got good set design and the puzzles all make sense. The little ‘extra’ at the end also gives enthusiasts something to aim for, and I’m sure this would be a hit for players of all ages.
Clue Cracker: Mega Bite (Tunbridge Wells)
Clue Cracker keep pushing themselves with each game they release. Grab the family, grab your friends, grab a random person off the street – whoever you play this game with, you’ll have fun – guaranteed.
How do you track the Escape Rooms you’ve played?
Escape rooms have become a popular pastime for people looking for a fun and challenging experience, and escape room enthusiasts are becoming much more common. With so many different escape rooms available, it can be difficult to keep track of the games you’ve played. Fortunately, there are a number of tools and apps that can […]
Diorama Games: The Medusa Report (Play at Home)
The Medusa Report is one of those games that feels chaotic at the start, then as you progress it comes together to form a beautiful harmony. The documents blur the lines of what’s real and what’s fantasy, and it’s really rather impressive how much puzzling can fit into one box!
Prestige Escape Rooms: The Witch’s Lair (Online)
This game surprised me. I thought we were going to get a horror experience but it was more horror-light (very light) and actually made us laugh in a couple of spots. There is a strange obsessions with toads in this game, but if you can see past that then this is a decent game (at a reasonable price) and serves the purpose of an evening’s entertainment.
The Lift Escape Rooms: The Lift Shaft (Brighton)
If you’re looking for a hardcore puzzling session in Brighton, this probably isn’t the game for you. However, if you’re looking for a space filler, a warm up, or an introduction to escape rooms, then this certainly would fit the bill.
Escape Reading: The Ram Raid (Reading)
I can see why Ram Raid is an enthusiast’s favourite. There is a lot to do in this game, but you don’t have to do it all to be successful. This game will likely keep you locked up for most of the 60 minutes, and you’ll be non-stop running around solving some quality puzzles.
Escape Reading: Kidnapped (Reading)
I’d probably class this as quite a traditional escape room, with some traditional but satisfying puzzles. It starts off dark but soon lightens up and becomes a fun place to explore.
Escape Reading: The Vampire Slayers (Reading)
This wasn’t the hardest or scariest of games, but all the puzzles clicked and we flew through it. Probably not a challenging room for experienced players, but it was a solid and fun game that we were glad to have played
Planning the Ultimate Escape Room Trip to Athens
Athens is an incredible city and should be on the ‘must do’ list for all escape room enthusiasts. We’ve played some incredible games but Athens has really changed our views on what escape rooms can be. If you’re planning a trip to Athens and want any help or advice, feel free to reach out to us
Exit 60: Banged Up (Newport)
Despite being a very much ‘done’ theme, Banged Up managed to avoid a lot of the clichés and provided just the right level of whimsy for some good light-hearted fun. We weren’t in this game for a long time (completed it in less than 25 minutes), but we will remember our time fondly.
Hourglass Escapes: The Road to Innsmouth (Play at Home)
The Road to Innsmouth felt like it squeezed a lot into a Telescape game. Ok there were cut scenes and videos etc, but it still managed to keep us occupied for over two hours, so if you’re looking for an evening’s entertainment then this could be a good shout.
Way Out: Ice Tiki (Athens)
I would love to play Ice Tiki again, even though we know how to solve the puzzles, the experience was just amazing. The time we spent in this game was like one big party and it was the perfect end to our holiday. Please please please can we get more games like this in the world!
G-Factor Group: The 7 Mysteries of Pharaoh (Athens)
We played this game on a whim and we’re glad we did. There was nothing mind-blowingly special about it, but it had fun puzzles, some cool tech, and a clear ending – although that ending could easily be improved with just a few minor tweaks.
G-Factor Group: Freedom for Sale (Athens)
I’m not a huge fan of prison rooms in general but this one felt just a bit too rough around the edges. We spent more time being frustrated and lost in this room than we did having fun. It’s nice it is available in English now, but it’s not one that we’d recommend to others.
G-Factor Group: Through the Mirror (Athens)
This game was a surprise of our Athens trip. I wasn’t expecting much, but, thanks to its original set and puzzles, it was a joy to play. I would have liked there to have been more to it or perhaps a stronger ending, but this game just went back to the main reason we play escape rooms: fun.
Coven Escape: Woman In Black (Athens)
I feel bad for Woman in Black as we played it the day after we had played Chapel and Catacombs so it perhaps didn’t wow us as much as it really should have. But it in its own right, it is still an incredible game with a huge set that I really enjoyed.
The Art of Escape: Lilipout (Athens)
We really wanted to like this game, but instead it was our least favourite game of all the ones we played in Athens. It had potential thanks to the fun set design, but due to poor puzzles and a lack of signposting it is not a game we’ll be recommending anytime soon.
Lockhill: The Sanitorium (Midnight mode) (Athens)
This entire experience truly felt like we were in a live adaptation of a Resident Evil or Silent Hill video game. It. Was. Incredible.
Station 33: Wake Up (Athens)
Wake Up was a visually impressive experience and I can see why horror aficionados love it. I think we had been spoiled by other experiences so this one didn’t grip us as much as it possibly should have, but it is still a game we will likely never forget.
Exit Plan: The Dark Side of the Elements (Athens)
I think if this game was in the UK it would probably be more impressive, but it’s surrounded by world class games in Athens so it’s likely a little overshadowed. We had a good time playing The Dark Side of the Elements and I fell in love with the ceiling and some of the cool tech they used.
Escapepolis: The Butcher Resurrection (Athens)
This game felt like more of a traditional live actor horror escape room rather than some of the others we played, and that’s not a bad thing. The puzzles were solid, the story was good, and the set was suitably terrifying
Escapepolis: Cosmos 05 Death in Space (Athens)
We really wanted to love this game, and in a way we did. We loved the tech, we just found the gameplay to be a bit lacking and we ended up more frustrated than anything else
Paradox Project: The Music Academy (Athens)
The Music Academy is one of those games that keeps on going. When we thought we were done, there was more puzzling to be done! We haven’t played many three hour games, but Paradox Project are surely the masters of this domain, what an experience!
The Detective Society: Family Adventures (Play at Home)
If you’re looking for a gentle introduction to get your family interested in play at home escape rooms, then look no further. The Detective Society: Family Adventures, is the perfect game for family games night and I really do hope they produce more games like this.
Escapism: Radioactive (Plymouth)
The puzzles in this game really clicked with us, and we quite enjoyed the theming too. It’s nice to play a room that perhaps has a darker side without being a physically dark room. More rooms with decent lighting, please.
Escapism: Breadcrumbs (Plymouth)
This is classed as the easiest game at this venue, and it may be, but I’m not sure. It was a fun game with cute set design. Ignoring the slightly dark undertones of the story, I could see this game being a family favourite.
Escapism: Legacy (Plymouth)
Not the hardest of games, but we had a good time in Legacy. The puzzles ranged in difficulty and type and the openness of the game allowed us to split up and do our own thing. A good first game to start off our Escapism Plymouth binge day.
Escape from the Room: The Mixed up Mind of Mr Crabheal (Epsom)
Escape from the Room have created a game here that should be enjoyed by not only the general public, but also enthusiasts, which is not always an easy feat. It’s great to see a growing trend where escape rooms are designed to keep you in the game for as close to 60 minutes as possible.
Cornwall’s Great Escape Rooms: Fractured Fairytales (Helston)
This game is arguably on the easier side and experienced teams will likely fly through it. But as a stop-over game, or a family game, it’s probably set just right. The set design was lovely, the puzzles made sense, and it made for a fun (albeit short) experience.
Escape Time: Prison X (St Ives)
Prison X was pretty much your standard prison escape type of game, but with a slight twist at the end – oh and a washing machine, because, why not? If you’re in St Ives and looking for a game to play, then this more traditional style escape room could help you escape the busy streets below
The Best Escape Rooms in the UK in 2022
Last year we wrote an article lazily titled ‘The Best Escape Rooms in the UK in 2021‘, well in the interest of starting a new tradition and giving you a check list for the must-play escape rooms in the UK – here is the 2022 instalment.. The Best Escape Rooms in the UK in 2022, […]
Cornwall’s Great Escape Rooms: The Family Business (Newlyn)
This room is probably ok for the market it is intended for, and most people will probably love it. For some reason it just didn’t click with us and I’m not sure why
Cornwall’s Great Escape Rooms: The Secrets aboard the Jolly Roger (Newlyn)
You can’t come to Cornwall and not play a pirate themed escape room. We found the Secrets aboard the Jolly Roger, and had a good time doing it. The room won’t wow you, but it was an enjoyable time and most of the puzzles were fair and enjoyable to solve.
Dreadlock Escape Rooms: Detention (Bodmin)
Considering the theme was ‘Detention’, I can’t quite work out why, but this game was a delight. The puzzles were well thought out and the game flowed well. I think it helped that the room felt quite new and clean, but this game has cemented the fact that I think Dreadlock may be our favourite venue in Cornwall.
Reynard’s Adventures: Temple of the Volcano God (Taunton)
This is a game that is sure to turn beginners into enthusiasts. The set design was beautiful and the puzzles were not the most challenging, but were fun.
Prodigy Escapes: Mission Impawsible (Exeter)
There’s no point avoiding it, this is a game designed for beginners and it shows. As enthusiasts we weren’t challenged in this game but we still enjoyed it. If you’re looking for a game to try and convince friends (or family) that they really should play an escape room – this is the game you want
Red House Mysteries: The Danziger Experiment (Exeter)
This wasn’t a bad game, and in places it was fun. Unfortunately the one GM for two games decision is what let our experience down. I understand that this is probably due to financial reasons but we’re yet to play at a company who runs this way and offers a better experience than one GM for one game.
TimeTrap: Curiouser and Curiouser (Reading)
Another example of a beautifully assembled game by TimeTrap that was a joy to play. The puzzles were great and on theme, and the room itself was wonderful to interact with. Don’t worry if you didn’t play the prequel to this game, you’ll still have a great time.
The Panic Room: Riddled (Gravesend)
If you’re looking for a game for stag/hen dos, this is it. This game obviously has a target market and I imagine it does really quite well for that market, I’m not sure what enthusiasts will think about it, but credit to Panic Room for doing something different.
Mythologic: Needlenose (Gillingham)
I’m not normally a huge fan of horror/live-actor escape rooms as they seem to just be dark for the sake of it, but Needlenose was good fun and had a good sense of adventure. In terms of set design and build, it felt like a step up from their earlier games and I’d imagine this is a very popular game around the scary season!
Ctrl Alt Esc: Quick-E-Mart (Margate)
We enjoyed our time in the Quick-E-Mart, but it just felt a bit short. We were an experienced team, but for a 90 minute game, we didn’t expect to get out in less than 40 minutes. The experience was fun, just a little too short lived and left us wanting a few extra puzzles to bulk it out.
Eureka Escape: Cabin Fever (Penzance)
This game feels like it was made for the surroundings it is in. It won’t wow you, but nothing felt out of place. Puzzle wise there was nothing too complex, although we found one of the search puzzles a bit sneaky, and another puzzle had too many options and made it too easy to get distracted.
Eltham Escapes: Return to Neverland (Eltham)
This game was a joy to play and was beautifully put together. The puzzles were fun and the game had a little bit of magic that made it a wonderful space to be. If you’re a fan of the Disney experience, get booked in!
Eltham Escapes: Nightmare on Ripper Street (Eltham)
The story felt like it was missing something in this game, but the set design was spot on. Some questionable tech as well as some sneaky searching left us feeling a bit confused at times, and like we were guessing more than solving things.
Studio Stamp: On Circus Grounds (Play at Home)
If you’re looking for a game that is well assembled, has an intriguing story and a few puzzles to boot, then get some friends round, have a glass of wine, and give this a try
Phantom Peak (London)
Phantom Peak is a wacky place that has a strange obsession with Platypuses, and it works. The cool Wild West Steampunk vibe, cool machines, great cast, and obscure missions all come together to form the perfect family/friend/work/romantic experience. We didn’t know what to expect, but we will be back, and probably more than once. We’ve now got a new favourite attraction in London.
The Escapement: WunderWaffe Operation Quartz (Broadstairs)
This game was a long time in the making, but I’m pleased to report that the wait was 100% worth it. The Escapement have created a game here that will surely go to the top of people’s ‘Top 10’ lists, we need to rejig ours, as this is firmly up there for sure.
The Panic Room: The Happy Institute (Gravesend)
We left it a long time before playing this game, and we shouldn’t have. The puzzles were logical and fair, our GM was great, and we had a very ‘Happy’ time in this Institute.
Escape Rooms Cardiff: Astro Quest (Cardiff)
Astro Quest is the rebirth of Press Start – and it works. The puzzles were much more enjoyable, the story made more sense, and the set dressing was good. It feels like this game now has something for everyone and it’s sure to be a much more enjoyable experience (once one puzzle is tweaked).
Mindworks: Smuggler’s Ruin (Worthing)
Everyone knows Brighton has great escape rooms, but if you’re in the area then it’s definitely worth stopping by Worthing. MindWorks surprised me with the quality of this game, and it was a lovely way to end a day of quality games.
Pier Pressure: Loot The Lanes (Brighton)
Loot the Lanes contains a real sense of awe that is often lacking in escape rooms and is a true testament to the team at Pier Pressure. Everything about this game is first rate and I can easily see why this game is consistently rated as the best, or one of the best in the UK. It’s a must play.
The Escape Game Carmarthen: Oubliette (Carmarthen)
This room was a let down for us thanks to an unfair placement of a handcuff key, and this really tainted our experience. The set design was decent for the most part, although the final ‘reveal’ was pretty much apparent from the start which was a shame.
The Escape Game Carmarthen: Depth Charge (Carmarthen)
The smoke in this room was set to 11, dial that down a bit and I think we’d have had a more enjoyable experience. Saying that, the set design for Depth Charge was pretty spot on and the puzzles didn’t feel out of place
Tenby’s Great Escape: Captain’s Treasure Room (Tenby)
We didn’t click with this game, but we still appreciate that it was well designed and had a good sense of adventure. I had low expectations for this venue, and was pleasantly surprised. If you’re in the Tenby area then this venue is worth checking out
Tenby’s Great Escape: The Wizard’s Lair (Tenby)
It was a nice change to play a Wizard themed room that simply wasn’t a Harry Potter rip off. The set design in this game was spot on and they managed to fit in a few surprises, along with some enjoyable puzzles.
The Escape Game Swansea: Hostel (Swansea)
I can see why this game has such a low escape rate. Darkness, lack of signposting, and puzzles that just didn’t seem to make sense or always fit the narrative. We left this hostel feeling frustrated and wondering if we should have just quit to became the latest victims.
The Escape Game Swansea: The Prison Van (Swansea)
Our dislike of Prison Van escape rooms was not changed with this game. It felt like signposting was limited, some poor choices were made on puzzle design, and generally we just felt frustrated at our time in the van.
Exitus Escape Rooms: Coco Loco (Cardiff)
Coco Loco was a delight for pretty much all the senses, and is a perfect family friendly escape room in Cardiff. Just when we thought the game was over, Exitus surprised us once again! Often you’ll get a card, or a badge to take away from an escape room, but that’s not good enough for Exitus – what a treat!
Eleven Puzzles: Parallel Lab (Play at Home)
If you liked the first game by Eleven Puzzles, then this one is sure to be a hit. We found the puzzles to be fair, and the game was fun and in places funny. The ‘forced communication’ was also done well and is guaranteed to get you talking to your teammate(s). Eleven Puzzles take their time with their games, and it shows, this is a quality experience.
11th Hour Escapes: Criminal Record (Bromham)
I love it when a game is a lovely space to be in, not just because of the set design, but because of the puzzles too. Criminal Record was fun from start to end and the puzzles perfectly complemented the set. Credit to 11th Hour Escapes for making a murder mystery fun again!
Mission Breakout: Underground 2099 (London)
Underground 2099 has some cool moments and a good sense of adventure, but I’d like a little more signposting and definitely more light to make this a truly fun experience.
Riddlr: Decade Runner (Bristol)
I wish this was a 90 minute room, simply so I could have had more time to enjoy the space. This game was challenging but I loved every minute spent in it. Best game in Bristol? I think so.
Riddlr: Nautilus (Bristol)
I can see why Nautilus is the go-to recommendation for Bristol. Strong set design, solid puzzles, a great sense of adventure, and a bit of fun along the way make this a game that we will have no hesitation in recommending
Riddlr: Seance (Bristol)
It’s always nice to set a new room record, not just for bragging rights but because it shows that a room clicked with us, meaning the puzzles were logical and fair. Couple that with some good set design and some entertaining jump scares, and Séance is a fun game to play and one we would recommend if you’re in town.
U-Escape: Franksy (Bournemouth)
Easily our favourite game at U-Escape. Franksy has a unique theme, with unique puzzles, and great set design. This is by far the most challenging of games at this venue, especially if you complete it on the hardest setting, but it’s great fun and if you’re in Bournemouth get it booked!
The Great Big Escape: Hop House Homicide (Dorchester)
This room felt like it was set up in a rush just so they could get their doors open. Sparse set design, lacking puzzles, frustrating puzzles, and a very anti-climatic ending meant we left just feeling a bit flat. This game has a premium price tag, but it was not a premium experience.
Unsolved Science: Case 01 – The Object (Play at Home)
Out of the box we didn’t know what to expect, and having now played the game we can comfortably say that this is something different to the norm. Unsolved Science have done a great job of merging the joy of escape room puzzles with science.
Online Escape Rooms Ireland: Spirit Seekers: The Dullahan (Play at Home)
At the start, we didn’t know what to make of this game, but it certainly grew on us. It was an interesting story and fascinating to have a virtual tour of a beautiful country (and some pigs made an appearance too). The puzzles were logical and fair, and it had a few surprises to keep us guessing
Escape Down the Rabbit Hole: Escape the Bus (Barnstaple)
Speed is actually one of my favourite films, so to play a game that has taken inspiration from one of the greats was actually a great deal of fun. Escape the Bus was a bit of a surprise, and I found that of the two games available at Escape Down the Rabbit Hole, it was my favourite.
Escape Down the Rabbit Hole: The College of Magic (Barnstaple)
Games in the South West seem heavily targeted to the passing tourist market, so enthusiasts are unlikely to be challenged. At £60 for a team of two, this is not a cheap experience and it certainly didn’t feel like it warranted such a high price, but we had fun, and (other than the first) the puzzles made sense and were logical.
Make Valentine’s Day Special with a Play at Home Escape Game
If you’re looking to break the monotony of pandemic life, then you should really consider an online escape room. If you’re reading this then you’ve probably heard of escape rooms, those games where you get locked (it’s never fully locked) in a room and then have to solve puzzles to escape, well now you can play them from the comfort of your own home
Improbable Escapes: Seven Dwarfs Mining Mission (Play at Home)
We’d been waiting to play this game for a long time, and I’m so glad we finally did. It was wonderful and instantly made us want to head back to Disney. This game is sure to be a family favourite, so round up your little people and get booked in!
Devon Escape: Death on Dartmoor (Newton Abbot)
Possibly the most impressive set (at least early on) at this venue, but thanks to one puzzle we found this game a little unsatisfying. I’d probably rate it as the second best game at Devon Escape but it is still worth playing if you’re in the area.
Devon Escape: Professor Enright’s Enigma (Newton Abbot)
We entered this room expecting it to be easier, but we were certainly mistaken. An error on our part made this room much harder than it should have been. But the puzzles were decent, the theming was adequate and we had fun – so that works for us.
Escape Quest: The Avengers (Play at Home)
I’m not really sure how we felt about this game. It was a challenge in places, and at times quite clever, but it didn’t feel like a traditional online escape room experience, it was more like a test in our internet researching skills (which we totally passed).
Paradox Parlours: Maxwell Mysteries – The Kidnapped Professor (Play at Home)
We really enjoyed the first Maxwell Mysteries game, but we enjoyed this one even more. The puzzles clicked with us, the printing and cutting wasn’t a chore, and the story and general quality of the game made it an instant ‘must play’ for us.
CU Adventures: Solve our Shirts – The Treasure Trove of Pirate Cove (Play at Home)
Not enough games come with/on t-shirts. Don’t get me wrong, I love getting a nice pin badge from a game, but a t-shirt that I can wear is next level stuff. We loved The Treasure Trove of Pirate Cove and really really really hope that Solve our Shirts make a third game!
Curious Correspondence Club: Chapter 3: The Tinker’s Trinket (Play at Home)
I think this was our least favourite of the games we have played by Curious Correspondence Club. I don’t know if we were tired, or the puzzles just didn’t click with us, but we’d recommend Chapter 2 over this one.
Curious Correspondence Club: Chapter 2: Warehouse on the Wharf (Play at Home)
We enjoyed this game much more than Chapter 1. The puzzles made sense, the tactile components were clever and a joy to work with, and the final video brought a close to the story and our mission.
Curious Correspondence Club: Chapter 1: The Custodian’s Keys (Play at Home)
I can’t put my finger on it but this game felt like it was flawed in some way. Perhaps the puzzles weren’t for us, but the system with the keys didn’t seem to work as intended and the puzzles left us feeling frustrated and definitely not wanting more.
iDventure: The Heist (Play at Home)
It’s a shame this game can only be played once, but we enjoyed it. The clever use of bots helped immerse us in the heist and this game felt very different to others we have played.
Things Escape Rooms Need To Stop Doing in 2022
This post is a first for Review The Room, it’s the first post that we’ve published that has actually been written by a guest blogger. Here Alan Coo gives his thoughts on what escape rooms need to change in 2022. What do you think?
Crime Runners: Beneath Vienna (Play at Home)
This felt like a nice continuation of the story that we enjoyed in Crime Runner’s first online game. With clever puzzles and a well delivered narrative, we enjoyed our time in the sewer.
The Best Escape Rooms in the UK in 2021
The TERPECA awards are the pinnacle awards for the escape room industry. Here we have a look at how the UK faired in this years’ competition
Lock and Code: National Elf Service (Weston-Super-Mare)
Because of the short lifespan of Christmas rooms we can understand companies not making them as refined as their other rooms. Saying that, National Elf Service had a decent story, authentic 90s set dressing, and one or two puzzles that brought a smile to our face – and that’s what it’s all about.
Random-Rooms: The Old Hospital Room (Newport)
We hoped to finish on a high at Random-Rooms, but I think The Old Hospital was our least favourite game of the day. One puzzle just felt like a massive leap and that caused us to end the game with more frustration than fun.
Random-Rooms: The Dragon Room (Newport)
For a room called ‘The Dragon Room’, it felt like it was lacking something, and I think that would probably be a dragon. Two big puzzles slowed down the game for us and kinda killed the buzz, up until that point we were enjoying it, then it just became a bit frustrating.
Random-Rooms: The Random Room (Newport)
This room certainly lived up to its name, it was very random. We clicked with the puzzles and found it to be an easy game, strangely it was probably the game we enjoyed the most at Random-Rooms.
Bristol Escape Rooms: Operation Omicron (Bristol)
This is a game for beginner players and I must admit that having paid £50 for a team of two we felt pretty short changed at completing the main game in 15 minutes. Yes there was a secondary bomb but that didn’t feel like part of the game and was more of an afterthought.
Morgan’s Escapes: Mystery Times (Play at Home)
This was a really good challenge and is a great idea. I actually think they’re doing themselves an injustice by limiting it to the small box it comes with, there is so much potential here! I’m considering getting a suitcase out of the loft and locking it up with the padlock – that should keep my family occupied for all of Christmas day!
Genius Escapes: Nuclear Nightmare (Southampton)
If you’re an enthusiast looking for a challenging room, then play this one on Genius level. This is a challenging but fair game and despite feeling like we were going to crash and burn multiple times, we thoroughly enjoyed our time averting the Nuclear Nightmare.
Roomsmiths: The Naked Eye (Plymouth)
In a way this felt like it should be a hard room as there was a lot to do, but it clicked with our team and we got out in super-quick time. It’s cosy in places but really opens up so I’d imagine that bigger teams will probably still find things to do.
Third Angel: The Distraction Agents (Play at Home)
If you’re looking for an escape room experience, then keep looking. If you’re looking to get immersed in what feels like an underground society, and experience something where the more you put in, the more you get out, then this is your game
Housetrap Escape Rooms: Aquarium (Bodmin)
This game would probably be a good choice for a family if you’re looking for an escape room near Bodmin, enthusiasts also may enjoy it, but for us it just didn’t click. The game had a cute feel to it but the puzzles weren’t our cup of tea.
Housetrap Escape Rooms: Tumbleweed (Indian Queens)
Despite the odd setting in Gnome World, we were pleasantly surprised by Tumbleweed. It had good set dressing, solid puzzles, and nice and open gameplay, the fact that it was 90 minutes was also a bonus. If you’re in Cornwall, this one is worth a detour
Logic Box: Santa and the Missing Pocket Watch (Highbridge)
We normally crash and burn in Christmas games, but this one clicked more than normal, although we still did have our moments. This is a lovely, family friendly game, and perfect for getting you in the Christmas spirit (even if you play in November).
DreadLock: Let the Games Begin (Bodmin)
This game is unlikely to challenge enthusiasts, and if you’re a fan of story you may want to look elsewhere. But, if you just want a fun, unpretentious game that is all about the puzzles and nothing else, then this is a good shout.
Puzzle Post: The Scandal (Play at Home)
The Scandal is the perfect group game at any time of year, but it should definitely be on your Christmas list. Put away Monopoly, this will cause less conflict and will give your brains a nice little post-turkey workout.
Next Level Escape: The Strange Disappearance on Station Eleven (Play at Home)
This game had great graphics, a unique story that was filled with humour, and thanks to some tweaks to the game play, it was frustration free. If you’re looking for a game that will challenge you, make you laugh, and has unexpected twists and turns – this is the game for you.
E-Scape Rooms: The Sword of Drakul (Play at Home)
The Sword of Drakul seemed to take away a lot of the frustrations with their first game, The Alp, and this made for an enjoyable experience. The graphics were slick and the puzzles were solid, well done E-Scape Rooms, you’ve made a cracking game!
Tulleys Escape Rooms: SpellCraft (Crawley)
The magic added something to the immersion. Nethercott is possibly still my favourite, and Mutiny might still be Liz’s, but objectively SpellCraft might be one of Tulleys best. The magical elevator taking us places, and then revisiting other rooms, and the twistyness of everything gave it a level of mystique
Dark Master: One Wing Airlines (Crowborough)
For us, there was a bit too much going on in this game which meant we couldn’t focus on what we needed and ended up missing key things. DarkMaster are certainly up there with the best for their set design, but I think the puzzles left us wanting a bit more.
Cryptology: Daylight Robbery (Nottingham)
This is an amazing game that is sure to get your adrenaline going, and possibly keep it going for nearly the full hour. There are sure to be puzzles in here that you love (and some you’ll probably hate), but all the puzzles are fair, the set design is great, and this is guaranteed to be an enthusiast favourite – and could be the game to get newbies addicted.
Cryptology: Rameseize (Nottingham)
This is a room that would be perfect for those new to escape rooms or seasoned escapers. The puzzles were fun, the room was solid, and the sense of exploration was spot on. With different ‘win’ levels, it works for everyone regardless of experience level.
Tempo Escape Rooms: Eternal Life (Bath)
We had heard good things about Tempo in Bath, and I’m pleased to say this game lived up to our expectations. Great story-telling, solid puzzles, and a really fun, and at times, whimsical set, makes this a definite reason to visit Bath.
House of Frankenstein: Victor’s Lair (Bath)
I don’t know who designed Victor’s Lair, but I think it needs a little more work. It’s not a bad room, it’s certainly visually good, but the puzzles and flow felt lacking. If they take feedback on board and are willing to make adjustments then I think this could be a game that we would recommend in Bath.
Exitus Escape Rooms: Virus Tinkerers (Cardiff)
Virus Tinkerers was a game where everything fell into place for us and we loved our time in the lab. Fun puzzles, solid design, and nice touches as a nod to the scientists involved in the Tenovus charity – this is a must play game in Cardiff.
Logic Box: The Portland Heist (Highbridge)
A really strong first game by a new company and we’re sure we’ll be back to check out their other game soon. The Portland Heist had clever puzzles (don’t overcomplicate) and good story and set design. This would be a fun game for both enthusiasts or ‘regular’ people, especially families.
Escape Rooms Cardiff: Press Start (Cardiff)
We really wanted to like this game but we found the narrative didn’t seem to fit the game and the puzzles weren’t enjoyable to us. I’d imagine some players will click and blitz this game, but unfortunately this wasn’t the game for us.
Clue HQ: The Legend of Miyalock (Birmingham)
The Legend of Miyalock seems to be the shining light in the ClueHQ collection. Admittedly we haven’t played many ClueHQ games, but Miyalock is a cracking game and one that ClueHQ can be proud of.
Headlock Escape Rooms: The Keeper & The Fungus Among Us (Play at Home)
This game is a true delight! With original music and songs, beautiful set design, great puzzles and a wonderful host – this will likely be unlike anything else you have ever played. We don’t do awards, but if we did, this would be a winner!
The Veiled Note: VeiledFest (Play at Home)
VeiledFest is certainly one of the prettiest puzzle envelopes we’ve seen and this game would be great to invite a friend to a festival or gig. The puzzles weren’t overly challenging but still kept us occupied for 20 minutes, which we were quite happy with
Marvo Mysteries: Marvo Induction (Bournemouth)
Don’t wait for a special occasion to play this game, get booked in now, you most definitely won’t regret it.
Houdini’s: RMS Titanic (Southampton)
We loved the attention to detail in both the game, and the waiting area. The room itself had touches that were historically accurate, and the reception had a poster of the Titanic that was signed by the youngest survivor of the disaster.
Trapp’d: Forsaken (Wellingborough)
We destroyed Forsaken, completing it in 23 minutes and escaping with the room record. It wasn’t a hard room but I can see why people may struggle, especially as it is so dark. I don’t know if bigger teams get more torches, but one per person would be nice. If you’re a fan of horror rooms and like a live actor, then you’ll probably get a buzz from Forsaken.
Trapp’d: Legend of Drakon (Wellingborough)
Drakon was our least favourite game at Trapp’d Wellingborough, but that could have been because of the reset error which threw us off. Considering we completed it in 34 minutes even with that error, I don’t think this game is likely to challenge teams, but it is still good fun. If your Trapp’d GM provides torches for your team then you’ll probably have a more enjoyable experience – if not, you best get eating your carrots.
Trapp’d: Atlantis (Wellingborough)
Credit to Trapp’d for doing something different with this room and the set design was spot on. It would have been nice to have seen a few more puzzles as the space was massive and could take them, but it was still an enjoyable time under the sea.
Angle Escape: Candy Shop (Peterborough)
The Candy Shop is the best of the rooms at Angle Escape and shows that they are improving with each game they build. Darkness and lighting was still an issue but that would be easily solved by providing more (decent) torches.
Angle Escape: The Getaway (Peterborough)
The Getaway firmly sits in the horroresque category for escape rooms, but is more creepy than scary. It’s dark and probably needlessly so, but out of the three games we played at Angle Escapes, this one falls firmly in the middle of the three for enjoyment.
Angle Escape: Victim (Peterborough)
The Victim is, I believe, the earliest room they have at Angle Escape, and it does show. As we played their other games they improved in quality. If darkness and lack of signposting doesn’t bother you, then you may enjoy this, but for us we just didn’t get on with it and left feeling rather deflated.
Want to Escape: The Guardian of the Gallery (Rushden)
The Guardian of the Gallery doesn’t feel like your average escape room. You can tell that this is built by an enthusiast who wants to push boundaries and create something different. This room is challenging, yet fair, and will likely be a firm favourite on the enthusiast scene for a long time to come.
Want to Escape: Teacher’s Revenge (Rushden)
If school was this fun, I’d probably be a doctor. This room was a joy from start to end thanks to its clever puzzles and lighthearted design. Was it as fun as Shimmy Shimmy or as impressive as Guardians? Probably not, but it was very close!
Want to Escape: Shimmy Shimmy Cocoa Pop (Rushden)
I’m a sucker for rooms that play on 80s nostalgia so it was probably a given that I would like this game. If you’re looking for a light-hearted game, then for sheer fun you’ll be hard pressed to find something more appropriate than Shimmy Shimmy.
One Way Out: Gas Alert (Oakham)
This felt like a game of two halves for us, we loved the first half but struggled in the second. Either way, this is a solid game with a massive space to explore!
One Way Out: Rhyming Room (Oakham)
This room will most definitely be a family favourite. If you’re in the area and are looking for a game to play with the family, then this is it. Likely to be fun for all ages and experience levels, Rhyming Room is worth it, even if it’s just to be impressed by Tilly Tonka’s intro!
One Way Out: Framed (Oakham)
A massive space makes this a perfect game for larger teams of either enthusiasts or families. Some very clever puzzles and a great way to play out a classic who-dunnit.
Escapologic: Chronos (Leicester)
Sometimes we just don’t click with a room, and that doesn’t make it a bad game, our brains just weren’t wired correctly for this game. It was a very pretty room and the puzzles were tactile and interactive, but so far, Chronos is at the bottom of our Escapologic list.
Escapologic: The Gateway (Leicester)
I really didn’t know what to expect with The Gateway, but we thoroughly enjoyed it. Just the right level of darkness, no frustrations, and a good flow to the story, well done Escapologic – great fun!
Unescapable: Tommy (Derby)
A fun room that had a good sense of exploration, but perhaps play Tommy as a warm-up for the other games here. Our game was tainted by over-eager clueing by our GM, and a laborious first puzzle, but we ended on a high and that’s the main thing.
Unescapable: Alan (Derby)
A pirate themed room, but not as you know it. Surprise awaits you when you enter this room, and then you’re taken on a wonderful journey as the story develops.
Escapologic: Immaterium (Nottingham)
Possibly one of the most visually stunning games that we have ever played. Ok, the puzzles didn’t particularly click with us but that won’t stop us recommending this game. Make sure you stretch before you play, you need to be quite mobile as you navigate around the ship.
Escapologic: Epi-Centre (Nottingham)
Epi-Centre is a good room but probably not the first one we’d recommend at Escapologic. If there was less ‘clutter’ and better torches, we probably would have enjoyed this game more. Although saying that, we did enjoy the crazy ending.
Escape Stations: Prometheus (Nottingham)
If you’re booking a trip to Nottingham, make sure you don’t miss out Escape Stations. Their lobby may not yet be as refined as other venues in the city, but their first game is solid and is an enjoyable experience
Make Your Escape: Utopia (Derby)
If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live a world like in the movie ‘Divergent’, then you need to play both Utopia and Dystopia, back-to-back.
Make Your Escape: Spellbound (Derby)
Spellbound is a mission, especially for a team of two. That’s why it’s normally recommended for 3+ players. It is achievable for a team of two, but it’s full on, with loads of puzzles and content to sift through – but from the very first puzzle, this game is a hoot!
Compendium: Laboratory (Bury)
A nice and bright room that felt very different to the other offerings at Compendium. This is a large space that could handle bigger teams, and has some really satisfying puzzles. Good fun.
Compendium: Wrong Turn (Bury)
A creepy room with good set design and some nicely challenging puzzles. Perhaps a bit gruesome for the family, but those of you who seek out horror rooms will likely enjoy (especially if you get the live actor version)
Mystery Mansion: D’Vile’s Curio Shoppe (Play at Home)
D’Vile’s is yet another wonderful contribution to the online avatar escape room world by Mystery Mansion. It doesn’t have the fun of DTF or the humour of Seen, but it is a wonderful creepy addition to the online horror world. We really can’t wait for the next instalment in this story, The Sleepy Man.
Lucardo: Gem Runner (Rawtenstall)
We enjoyed Gem Runner in Manchester, and we had the same feeling in Rawtenstall. A fun game that will remind you of all the things you first loved about escape rooms.
Lucardo: Safe House (Rawtenstall)
Yet another fun room by Lucardo. We’d been holding off playing the online avatar version of this game as we wanted to play it in real life, and we’re glad we did. We enjoyed Corruption a bit more than Safe House, but this game is unlikely to disappoint.
Lockdown: The Ministry (Ormskirk)
Although Lockdown are new to the escape room scene, they have brought three strong games to the table, with (minor hiccups aside) The Ministry being a highlight of the venue. If their first games are any indication of their skills, I look forward to seeing what comes next!
Lockdown: The Institution (Ormskirk)
This room had some good moments and certainly threw a few surprises our way with some theatrical elements that we weren’t expecting. With the exception of one puzzle, we enjoyed this game but I feel confident that this puzzle will be tweaked to make it better, so if you play, you may not have the same frustration that we did.
Lockdown: The Lodge (Ormskirk)
Perhaps on the easier side, The Lodge would be a great entry level game for those thinking of trying an escape room. Even enthusiasts should have a good time as the puzzles are decent and the theming is spot on.
Wirral Escape Rooms: The Curse of the Golden Lion (Liverpool)
If Disney made an escape room, this would be it. Ignoring the fact that the game is great and beautiful, there are so many easter eggs lovingly placed in the room that it is like an extra puzzle to spot and identify them all (we missed many)
Adrenaline: Nebula (Wigan)
Nebula was easily our favourite room at Adrenaline, and if this is a sign of things to come then they’re a venue to watch. This room really clicked with us and we found the puzzles a joy to solve and the room a pleasant place to be
Adrenaline: Labyrinth (Wigan)
This room certainly felt like a labyrinth, with twists and turns meaning we didn’t know which way we would be headed next. With decent puzzles and a good flow to the game, we enjoyed our time in the Labyrinth
Extremescape: Viking (Disley)
Despite struggling with this room (we were tired), we absolutely loved it. From the start to the incredible ending, this game had everything and more. This room is a real gem in the escape room industry and must be played by everyone.
Extremescape: The Pirate Ship (Disley)
It’s very easy to see why Extremescape have the reputation they do. They took a simple theme and made it something special. A great sense of adventure, solid puzzles, and a beautiful build, top marks Extremescape, and thank you!
Deadlocked: The Magic of New Orleans (Loughborough)
Great puzzles, lovely design, and some fun extras made this a game that we were sad to have finished. Be careful though, this game could turn out to be expensive, I think the Disney love is back and it’s time we booked another holiday to the happiest place on Earth.
Break Escape: The Enchanted Forest (Loughborough)
I don’t know if it was because we were tired or hungry, but we struggled to click with this game. It was pretty and impressive, but the puzzles, particularly the search element, just left us feeling deflated.
Break Escape: The Sands of Time (Loughborough)
We should have performed better in this room than we did, but it was still enjoyable and this would be a great room for family groups to play, even enthusiasts should have a good time
Top Escape Rooms: No Place Like Gnome (Worcester)
The perfect game to end our visit to Top Escape Rooms, No Place Like Gnome was fun from start to end and was a beautifully assembled room with a lighthearted and family friendly feel to it.
Top Escape Rooms: Sea Quest (Worcester)
Considering this started life as a box game, it was much more than that and ended up being one of my highlights of the day – admittedly I have a soft spot for pirate games. Sea Quest was a fun game, well hosted, and satisfying to play.
E-Scape Rooms: The Alp (Play at Home)
Well produced, decent puzzles, and an interesting storyline, The Alp is a game that we finished and both said ‘I enjoyed that game’. It’s great to see that even this far into the pandemic, decent online games are still being produced
Trapped: The Zoo (Play at Home)
This is the perfect family game if you want to get your little ‘uns interested in escape rooms. Get them away from the computer, and put this game in front of them. It is good clean fun that will get their brains whirring away!
Trapped: Flight 927 (Play at Home)
Flight 927 felt like a step up on the previous season by Trapped. Puzzles were fair, story made sense, and it kept us occupied for nearly an hour. If you need a break from a computer, then this is the game you’re looking for
Wild Child: Chernobyl: A Puzzle Septology (Play at Home)
Play it as intended, don’t get help, accept you may not complete it, and just enjoy the experience. This is a game to be played, to leave, to come back to, and to find your own eureka moments. Strap in, you’ll never have experienced anything like this before
Co-Decode: Oldervik Online – Chapter 4, Digging in Disguise (Play at Home)
The games by Co-Decode seem to be under-the-radar due to them being Print and Play, but really they are gems waiting to be discovered. Digging in Disguise, thanks to the improved interface is our favourite Oldervik game so far.
Trapped Escape Rooms: Spirit Train (Play at Home)
Puzzle enthusiasts will not enjoy this game, but those who like to get immersed in a story certainly will. With beautiful artwork and great narration, this is likely a game for those who enjoy experiences similar to Dungeons and Dragons
Breakout Unboxed: The Wizard’s Apprentice (Play at Home)
With a strong narrative, traditional escape room style puzzles, and a bit of magic, The Wizard’s Apprentice is ideal for a family game night, or perhaps just for introducing someone to the idea of an escape room.
Locked In Folkestone: Sub-Agents (Play at Home)
Nothing to make this game stand out in the online escape room world, but we were actually surprised by this game. The ending felt a bit abrupt and most of our time was spent on one puzzle. If you’re a logic-fiend then you’ll likely get through in no time, but it’s not a bad way to spend an evening with friends (virtually).
Hourglass Escapes: The Navigators and the Call from Beyond (Play at Home)
I loved the aesthetics of this game, and the incredibly bonkers ending! The puzzles it had were good, but we couldn’t help but feel like it just needed a few more so we really felt satisfied. Saying that, this is still a game we’d recommend if you want a reason to get you friends together. More please Hourglass Escapes!
Russ Builds: Citizen (Play at Home)
Citizen is the third game in the series by RussBuilds, and we once again had a good time. Getting a slot is like trying to get into an exclusive club, but if you do get in, you should have a great time.
District 3: Something Brewing (Play at Home)
Arguably the hardest of the games that we’ve played by District 3, but also one of the more satisfying ones. With clever puzzles, a wacky story, and a game-changing decision – this is a game to play if you’re looking for something challenging and different from the rest.
Dave Escape Rooms: Rita’s Cult Following (Play at Home)
A well structured and visually appealing game, but we found the puzzles were not up to the same standards. Is it still a decent game? Yes. Should you play it? Yes. I think if you are looking for something a bit different to everything else out there, then this could be the game for you
Beverley Breakout: Room 118 (Play at Home)
Possibly the biggest Telescape game we’ve played so far, it really just kept on going. There is a do-or-die ending to the game but one way or another, you will be able to finish. This game won’t blow you away with the visuals, but it is well put together and credit to Beverly Breakout for trying something different.
Escape Fun: Utopia Institute (Play at Home)
This game surprised us, and in a good way! Ok we got through it in no time at all and others may complete it quicker, but for only £8 it was surprisingly well put together and enjoyable to interact with
Riptide: The Lucky Ones (Play at Home)
I really didn’t know what we had let ourselves in for with The Lucky Ones, but life feels a little more complete now that we have played this. Go into this game with a clear mind and prepare to be immersed like you’ve never been immersed before!
clueQuest: Operation E.G.G (Play at Home)
Too much chocolate, or not enough, meant that we struggled with the puzzles in Operation E.G.G., but I could see other teams getting through it in no time at all. Likely fun for all the family, hide chapters around the house and make your team work for it!
Escape Rooms Ennis: O’Brien’s Cottage (Play at Home)
This was a really well put together game and wasn’t at all what we were expecting. I guess you could loosely class this as a horror room, but really it would be great for all the family.
Society of Curiosities: Madok’s Lost Treasure (Play at Home)
We waited a long time to play Madok’s Lost Treasure (and just as long to review it), and boy was it worth the wait! We loved everything about it, and finishing it was bittersweet. We were happy to complete our journey, but sad that it had to end
Escape Rooms Ennis: Under Siege (Play at Home)
Like a history lesson mixed with an escape room. This room isn’t overly challenging or the most exciting in terms of set design, but it was a fun room and had some nice extra touches to make the experience feel a bit more immersive
Fast Familiar: Bad Altitude (Play at Home)
Bad Altitude is not a game to rush through (especially since you can’t, really). It is instead one to sit back and just enjoy the ride, as you tackle your first day on the job with A.I. Airlines.
Farmer Ted: Farmer Ted and the Tractor-Related Injury (Play at Home)
This is not a bad game, it is also not a good game. I really don’t know what it is. Play it, you may enjoy it. Go in with an open mind and just prepare yourself for something ‘different’
Wacky Wheels: Cottage in the Woods (Play at Home)
If you’re the competitive type then you’ll love the leaderboard for this game. If you’re a completionist then you may get annoyed by the clue system and ‘one chance’ system. We lost points on one question because we didn’t zoom out far enough. The puzzles are fair, mostly, but Wacky Wheels can’t account for our stupidity.
Fox in a Box: Virtual Bunker Experience (Play at Home)
Fox in a Box exceeded our expectations with this room and we had an enjoyable experience. Probably a great room for those new to online escape rooms, but those who have played a few may find this on the easier side.
Great Scott Escapes: Who Killed Bugsy Marlowe (Play at Home)
In real life, I’m sure that this would be a good game to play, fortunately even online it is great fun. Great Scott have done a great job of digitising their room and this will be one that we are recommending for a long time.
Enchambered: Together At Heart (Play at Home)
We’ve enjoyed all the Alone Together games but this was our favourite, and possibly the most challenging. Play it as a team of two, or maybe four, and you’ll have a great experience
Escape Rooms Ennis: The Beach Bar (Play at Home)
Our first virtual trip to Ireland was a fun one and The Beach Bar was a great choice. A simple looking room but with added extras that make it fun from start to the end – just be warned, you may get a song or two stuck in your head after this!
Escapologic: Heistakes (Play at Home)
Thanks to the adapted gameplay and story, this game translated really well to the online world. Escapologic are perfectionists and that shows in everything they do. It’s great to have more UK based avatar games coming online, this would be a good choice if you’re looking for a fun avatar game.
Lake Escapes: Modern Detective (Play at Home)
At times we were frustrated with this game, but overall it was a decent game. I have no doubt that it would be better in real life, but for a digitised room it should still keep you entertained for at least an hour
Mythologic: The Island (Play at Home)
We really wanted to like this game but found the puzzles really let it down. It could be that the puzzles just didn’t click for us and you may enjoy it. If you do play this game, let us know how you get on.
Elgin Escape: Piper Asylum (Play at Home)
Since the emergence of play at home escape room style experiences emerged nearly a year ago, one of the most sought after types is one that allows teams to play collaboratively from near and far. With Piper Asylum, Elgin Escapes has added another enjoyable game that is perfectly suited to players across multiple households
Puzzle Punks: Save King’s Landing (Play at Home)
With the 360 view, the inventory, and Sir Dontos, we had everything we needed to have an enjoyable stay in King’s Landing and came away from this game with that wonderful escape room buzz.
The Panic Room: Frankenstein’s Book (Play at Home)
We had a bit of a love/hate relationship with this game. The idea is great, but we struggled on a few puzzles. Either way, if we’re going away for a break sometime, I could see us taking a couple puzzle books with us
Sherlocked: The Vault (Play at Home)
There is no doubt this was an impressive set with a strong story, but we felt it was lacking in puzzles. With a lot of waiting and simplified puzzles, this game left us wanting more from our time in the Vault, either way, we’ll certainly give the ‘real’ room a try in real life when the world allows.
Escape New Haven: Before Moonrise (Play at Home)
This is a game that would be amazing in real life, even online it was really good fun. Some really clever technology and fun puzzles made this an enjoyable choice for Liz’s birthday game. This is a game that deserves to be played
Post-a-Puzzle (Play at Home)
If you want to send someone a message and want to make them work for it, then Post-a-Puzzle is a great choice. Ten puzzles, a card, and optional confetti makes it feel like a party!
Project M: Cold Fusion (Play at Home)
Reviewing this game was a hard one. A lot of work has gone into it, and there is a lot of game play with oodles of story. I think if we hadn’t got ‘lost’, we would have enjoyed it more. Saying that, if you’re looking for a game to really challenge you and have you questioning reality, then give this one a try
Puzzle Post: The Dupe (Play at Home)
We love the concept of Puzzle Post and really enjoyed playing this game. As soon as we have a reason for sending this to someone, Puzzle Post will be our first choice. It’s on the easier side, but that doesn’t detract from the fun
Eleven Puzzles: Unboxing the Mind of a Cryptic Killer (Play at Home)
The more I look back on this game, the more I realise how much I enjoyed it. I don’t know if they’re planning on making another one, but I really hope they do! Fun puzzles, a great interface, and just a really enjoyable game to play
Theory 11 / Neil Patrick Harris: BoxONE (Play at Home)
Everything about BoxONE is top quality, and it was truly a delight to play. Enthusiasts won’t find it overly challenging but don’t let that stop you, it was a true delight
Locurio: The Vanishing Act (Play at Home)
Perfectly modified from a real-life game, The Vanishing Act is a masterpiece in online game design. An inventory system that both helped and added extra challenges, a great gamesmaster, and an overall slickness that is rare in online games, make this a must play!
Trapped Puzzle Rooms: The Heist (Play at Home)
Some really unique puzzles and a good use of Telescape helped make this one of the few ‘Heist’ rooms that we have enjoyed. The real life room is possibly better, but the online version is sure to entertain
Fast Familiar: National Elf Service (Play at Home)
National Elf Service is an interactive Christmas audio adventure, perfect for a holiday celebration unlike any in recent memory. Bonus points if you gather your team and play on Christmas Eve, as I really can’t think of a better way to get into the holiday spirit, and save Christmas
Sara Lee Trust: The Detective that Saved Christmas (Play at Home)
This won’t keep enthusiasts busy for long, but apparently inexperienced teams often take an hour to finish it. It’s a cute little game with a fun ending and a good option if you’re looking for a festive ‘whodunnit’
Mystery Mail: Catch me if you Can (Play at Home)
As a system, Mystery Mail is solid and a great way to deliver a message to a friend (while making them work for it). This wasn’t our favourite of their games, but it did have the most serious theme so probably not the best for Christmas.
Headlock Escape Rooms: Cracking Christmas (Play at Home)
This is 100% a family friendly game, and if you’re looking for some festive fun to get you in the Christmas mood, then this will make for a Cracking Christmas (see what we did there?)
The Locked Room: Operation Code Black (Play at Home)
This game is a step-up on their previous game but we found ourselves being more frustrated rather than enjoying it. With a bit of tweaking to the interface, a few enhancements to the puzzles, and a better and more graduated clue system, then this could be a decent game thanks to the sheer amount of content it contains.
Clue HQ: The Hunt for the Clueminati – Part 4: Genesis (Play at Home)
Genesis is another solid offering from Clue HQ, presented in the same format as the earlier games in the series. If you’re on the lookout for something that can be played remotely with ease, you can’t go wrong with any of games in The Hunt for the Clueminati series.
Hounds Escape: Questionable Ethics (Crawley)
Hounds Escape have managed to take everything that I’ve loved about other venues I’ve visited and games I’ve played and put them all under one roof. Questionable Ethics is a superb game
RC Escapes: The Curse of Amberly Manor (Play at Home)
This was a fun game, although we enjoyed their first game more. Decent puzzles, a creepy vibe, and some clever interactions made it enjoyable, although don’t forget, you really only have 60 minutes
Emergency Exit Escape Rooms: The Virtual Exorcist (Play at Home)
We loved everything about this game, and strangely lost all concept of time. We knew we had a time limit but we were so captivated by the game that time became a foreign concept. Exceptional hosting, great puzzles, and full on immersion
Mystery Mansion: Night Terrors (Play at Home)
Nothing about this room terrorised us, we loved it. A good use of Telescape and live video made for a slick and seamless game. The star of the show though was our avatar who brought the character to life and really made this game special.
Russ Builds: Airlock (Play at Home)
A very different experience to other live games, Russ is creating experiences that keep getting better. A fun score system, challenging puzzles and impressive props – if you can get a slot, you won’t be disappointed
Escape Rooms Middlemoor: Peaky Blinders (Highbridge)
Our experience of this room was equal parts frustration and enjoyment, I’m not sure which won out in the end. A few minor tweaks to the game and I think it would be a lot better. Bring your search A-game!
CU Adventures: Floor 13 (Play at Home)
This is a game that we thoroughly enjoyed, I can’t decide if we enjoyed it as much as The Lost Temple, but it was pretty close. That’ll be two CU Adventures games we’re now recommending! Skip Netflix, this is a great way to spend your night!
M4 Escapes: Dino Deadlock (Chippenham)
If you’re a fan of dinosaurs and escape rooms then this is a room you must try. A beautiful set, decent puzzles, and a really fun ending made our detour 100% worth it!
The Escape Game: Truth Seekers (Play at Home)
For a free game, this was fun. The room was up to the usual ‘The Escape Game’ standards and the puzzles were really rather satisfying. Our avatar slowed the pace which ruined our flow a little, but if you get a chance to get a slot for this game, do it.
DarkPark: Witchery Spell (Play at Home)
This is probably one of the most immersive play at home games we have played so far. It carries a premium price, but I doubt you will find anything else like it out there. We felt like it promised a bit more magic than it actually delivered, but it was still a delight to play.
Houdini’s: Extinct (Escape from Jurassic Island ) (Southampton)
Extinct is a must-play game. From the moment you start, it’s an adventure, straight through to the heart-pounding conclusion. With an awesome set, tactile and pleasing puzzles, and an intricate narrative, Extinct (Escape from Jurassic Island) is everything I want an escape room to be.
Houdini’s: Escape from Alcatraz (Southampton)
Prison break rooms are probably one of the most common themed rooms out there, but this is one of the better ones. Quite a search heavy room at times, but the puzzles were fair and the signposting was decent
Escape Hunt: Enola Holmes (Play at Home)
Theming is probably the biggest strength of this game. The imagery was beautiful and the story was woven into it well but the puzzles were weak. Worth playing, but print in black and white to save some money
The Adventure is REAL: Agent Venture Episode 3 – B.A.D. Side of the Moon (Play-at-Home)
The first games were great, this game was even greater. It was harder, more intense, slicker, and just generally another top quality game. This game will get the adrenaline going for sure!
Lock and Code: The Music Box (Weston-Super-Mare)
While The Music Box isn’t my favourite game from Lock & Code (that honour goes to Dead on the Hour), it’s a solid game. I’d be more inclined to recommend it to escape room newcomers, but even from an enthusiast standpoint, it’s worth a go if you’re in the area.
Lock and Code: Homecoming (Taunton)
Homecoming takes place in a massive space and plays out in a mostly linear fashion. You’re unlikely to be blown away by the set, but you may see a puzzle or two that you haven’t seen before.
Armchair Escapist: Dragon Egg Quest (for Kids) (Play at Home)
For £3 (and some printing) you really can’t go wrong with this game. Spend some time setting it up like a real quest and I can imagine that kids will love it. The story is solid, the artwork is very good, and there’s even a certificate at the end of the quest
Clue Cracker: Temple Quest (Tunbridge Wells)
There is no doubt that this room is going into both of our Top 10’s, it was great. Great is the word to describe it, great puzzles, great design, great hosts, great fun!
clueQuest: timeQuest Kids, The Earlybirds (Play at Home)
If you have kids who want to try out escape rooms (from home), then this is 100% the one you should try. It’s beautifully assembled, has fun puzzles, offers a mental challenge and has delightful physical interactions. Why didn’t this type of thing exist when I was a kid?!
60out: Orion’s Ridiculous Revenge (Play at Home)
Even if it wasn’t free, this would have been a good game. It was hilarious from start to end and had us in hysterics throughout. The puzzles were good fun, but really came second to the humour, innuendos, and story.
Hourglass Escapes: Ghostly Galleon (Play at Home)
The Ghostly Galleon was a really fun pirate themed room, that was enhanced by a great gamesmaster. For us, it was not quite as good as their Evil Dead II room, but they did set the bar very high with that game. Any way you look at it, this is a good game
Swamp Motel: The Mermaid’s Tongue (Play at Home)
As with Plymouth Point, the less we say about this game, the better it will be for you. Just go into this game expecting mystery, intrigue, sleuthing, and twists and turns a plenty.
Puzzalogical: The Secret of the Vault (Bracknell)
A good use of tech, and two tools/props that were very satisfying to use will give us something to remember this room by. A couple of ‘trial-and-error’ puzzles are ones we’d rather forget.
Exit The Room: Prison (Play at Home)
A jovial host probably made this game a bit better than it could have been, but a few tweaks are needed to the game to make it translate well into a well-rounded online experience
MindTrap: Operation Nightwalker (Play at Home)
Top quality acting from our avatar, combined with a wonderful set and puzzles make this room an instant hit. Horror with a pinch of humour, or humour with a pinch of horror, I’m not sure which – just play it and see.
The Escape Game: Hanna Unlocked (Play at Home)
Yet another solid game from The Escape Game. You don’t need any knowledge from the series ‘Hanna’ to play and succeed with Hanna Unlocked, plus it’s free, so really what do you have to lose by giving it a try?
Sinapsis: Smile (Play at Home)
This game further blurs the line between video games and escape rooms, probably swaying more to the former rather than the latter. If you want a laptop killing and challenging communication heavy game, then this one could be worth a try – plus it’s really rather cheap ($4 at time of writing)
Control the Escape: Villainous Vaccine Ventures (Play at Home)
A basic but generally enjoyable point-and-click game. This game has a DIY feel about it but it’s better than some ‘professional’ games we’ve played. We’re looking forward to seeing what comes next from Control the Escape, hopefully a little more signposting.
Edaqa’s Room: Prototype (Play at Home)
If you’re looking for a light-hearted point-and-click escape room then they probably don’t come much more light-hearted than Edaqa’s room: Prototype. It kept us occupied and entertained for around 50 minutes and managed to provide puzzles we hadn’t seen before
QuestVenture: Cocktails, Spies and Murder (Play at Home)
If you’re looking for a game that you can play with the family and get everyone involved, then this is a strong contender for your choice. It’s well put together and has fun puzzles, plus an online leaderboard to give you something to aim for (if you care about those things)
Oblivity Podcast: The Profoctor Predicament (Play at Home)
A story driven game that takes a while to play because of all the narrative. If you’re looking for a quick game that you can rush through, then this probably isn’t one for you. However, if you want a game that sucks you into a new world, then give this one a try
Swamp Motel: Plymouth Point (Play at Home)
This game had twists and turns aplenty! Play Plymouth Point without knowing what to expect, and an open mind and you are in for a good time. This isn’t your typical online game, this is like being in your own immersive online thriller movie!
Mystery Mansion: Detective’s Office (Play at Home)
An office space is unlikely to blow you away with its set design, but solid puzzles and great games mastering makes this a fun family-friendly experience
Legendary Quests: Project Avatar (Play at Home)
If I had to use one word to describe this experience it would be ‘bonkers’. This was a whirlwind from start to end and was a lot more fun than I expected it to be. If you can get over the very high price point, then it is worth giving it a try just to experience something different
Puzzle Post: The Missed Flight (Play at Home)
Puzzle Post is a great concept, perfectly delivered (no pun intended) and has so many uses. Party invitation? Pregnancy reveal? Happy Birthday message? So many options!
Escape from the Room: Return of Old Maid Milly (Epsom)
This was our first post-lockdown physical escape room, and it was a good one. Escape from the Room have upped their game and we would have no problems recommending this room
Next Level Escape: Temporal Tangle (Play at Home)
I loved this game, so much so that I played it twice. If you’re looking for a digital game that has subtle humour, a strong story, and great puzzles, then this is the game for you
Trapped: The Bank Job (Escape Box)
Christmas? Family holiday? Friends over? This could be what you’re looking for if you want a night of play at home escape room fun. Trapped takes the escape room out of the box and firmly plants it in your home. Experienced puzzlers won’t struggle with this game but there may be a few puzzles that have you scratching your heads for a few minutes
Hysteria: The Forgotten Realm II (Play at Home)
Ignoring some questionable accents, this was a fun game and arguably the best online game we’ve played by Hysteria so far. I could easily see this game being a family favourite
MindTrap: Gold Rush (Play at Home)
This is a must play room. It’s as simple as that. A wonderful host, a beautiful set that seems to keep surprising you, and a hugely satisfying ending
Complex Rooms: Legends of Canada (Play at Home)
We enjoyed this game as it felt like good clean fun, it was a bonus to learn some Canadian history. Canadians will likely have an easier time with this game, but non-Canadians should still enjoy
The Escape Game: The Heist – Vol. 1: Chasing Hahn (Play at Home)
Chasing Hahn was put together very well (as we expected from TEG), with solid puzzles, a clean interface, and a great hint system, this is a great collaborative game to play with friends
Sinapsis: Diabolic Escape (Play at Home)
This was possibly more video game than escape room, and very nearly killed our computers. If you’re looking for different, this is certainly that!
Vortex Escapes: N.O.O.M Project (Play at Home)
This game went beyond our expectations of a 3€ game and gave us nearly an hour of fun. If you like point-and-click games, this is a good option
Marvo Mysteries: M.A.R.V.O Archives Phase Two (Play at Home)
Phase One lacked puzzles and felt like a warm up act for something bigger. Phase Two was the headliner, and delivered on the earlier promises
CodeBreakers: Hunting a Killer (Play at Home)
This was a really fun way to spend nearly an hour, time literally flew by! Some good puzzles and mechanisms meant we managed to be surprised on more than one occasion
ESC The Game: ESC From Cell 126 (Play at Home)
A really enjoyable game that kept us occupied for longer than it probably should have. A good interface, decent puzzles, and generally just a fun game
Live Escape Salisbury: POD (Play at Home)
This was a really fun room and is very reasonably priced. With great signposting, clever puzzles, and a really fun set, it is worth doing! Get it booked before it is gone!
Society of Curiosities: Mysterious Map Heist (Play at Home)
Mysterious Map Heist is a fantastic little intro to the world of the Society of Curiosities and, filled with real-world interaction plus one moment of nail-biting suspense, managed to create a surprising amount of realism I simply was not expecting from a free game
Improbable Escapes: Neverland: Heist on the High Seas (Play at Home)
This game was as fun as it was beautiful and is an instant favourite of ours. The use of technology to push forward the story was inspired and something we haven’t seen before in a room. This is one room that we would recommend without any hesitation!
Roobicks: Escape The Basement (Play at Home)
If you want to find out who has the best escape room team amongst your friends then this is the game for you! Well hosted, fun puzzles, and the competitive aspect adds something extra
Hysteria: Project Blue Book (Play at Home)
A few frustrating puzzles and a weak clue system meant that at times we were annoyed and our enjoyment waned. However, looking back at this game we can see that some puzzles were actually quite clever and our perseverance paid off to make a mostly enjoyable experience
Co-Decode: Oldervik Online – Chapter 2, Operative Onboard (Play at Home)
This game improved on the first and those subtle changes made for a smoother experience. If you’re looking for a print and play that is slightly different to the rest, then this is it
Escape from Home: Grand Diamond Heist (Play at Home)
As an escape room this isn’t good, but as a game for a family activity then it’s probably not too bad. We enjoyed one puzzle, but only one
Escape from Home: History Re-Written (Play at Home)
Excluding one questionable mission, this was an interesting way to learn a bit of history but having to break for printing really ruined the enjoyment for us. We’ve played worse games, but we’ve also played better.
Escape Hunt: Level Up (Play at Home)
Escape Hunt have certainly “Leveled Up” with this game. If you’re looking for a fun nostalgic way to spend an hour, Level Up could be just what you’re looking for
Marvo Mysteries: M.A.R.V.O Archives Phase One (Play at Home)
This was a good game, but it could have been great. We felt like it ended just as it was getting going and felt a bit miffed when it was over. It’s definitely worth playing as it is beautifully put together and is a wonder to behold, but I wouldn’t set aside much time to complete it.
Get Lost Dover: Operation Paranormal Research Anomaly Taskforce (Play at Home)
This game put puzzles and fun ahead of everything else and created a really fun, family-friendly game. The websites are rough around the edges but functional and everything worked as it should. Well done Get Lost!
Clue HQ: The Hunt for the Clueminati – Part 3: Orpheus (Play at Home)
Fans of Astra and Chronicle won’t be disappointed by the latest offering from Clue HQ, and if you’re looking for a digital multiplayer experience that also manages to be non-linear, look no further.
RC Escapes: The Sapphire Project (Play at Home)
A firm 60 minute time limit makes this game different and adds more pressure, but it’s a really enjoyable game and the ending is so much fun!
Bruum Escape: The Search for the Magical Artifact (Play at Home)
This game is different, it has no bells and whistles like inventories, yet it still stands out as a special experience thanks to an excellent gamesmaster and a beautifully decorated space. If I could get to Italy, this game would be on my ‘must play’ list
Help Us Escape: Stanley’s Toy Box (Play at Home)
We really wanted to like this game, but I think we ended up hating it. It wasted nearly two hours of our life that we will never get back. You may enjoy it, we didn’t
Lee Ballan: The Pyramid (Play at Home)
Easily one of the hardest online games we’ve played to date. If you want a game that is heavy on communication and is a real challenge then this is the game for you
Elgin Escape: Murder Mansion (Play at Home)
We were pleasantly surprised by this game, ok the puzzles were on the easier side but the way we could both interact with the puzzles made for an enjoyable half an hour
Twinwoods Adventure: Morse Code (Play at Home)
This room went beyond our expectations with a great avatar, fun puzzles, good set design and a one-of-a-kind ending. If you get a chance, play this game!
Puzzle Punks: Secret Treasure of Dubrovnik (Play at Home)
A simpler room, but filled with history and intrigue and still managed to pack in a few surprises thanks to the use of tech. Our guide, Ivan, did a great job in bringing the theme to life.
The Panic Room: Mainstage Mayhem (Play at Home)
A fun room but probably one of the easier games by the Panic Room. With decent theming, storyline and puzzles, it will keep you entertained for a little while
The Panic Room: CSI: Mafia Murders (Play at Home)
With lots of evidence to work through, decent puzzles, and a solid ending; if you want a game that will make you feel like a detective, then this game is a good shout.
Trapt: Project G.O.D Particle (Play at Home)
This game was really well put together and was clearly designed to make it an enjoyable experience with the user in mind. Don’t be daunted by all the information that greets you, just get stuck in!
Enchambered: Together Apart (Play at Home)
Together Apart is a beautifully designed game and at (a minimum donation of) $5 it is a bargain, it would even be good at twice the price. Bring your communication ‘A’ game!
Rock Ave Escapes: Ready Mayor Two – A Matter of Time (Play at Home)
Don’t let first impressions fool you with this room. What looks like a basic room opens up to be so much more and the way it uses technology is one of its strengths.
CU Adventures: The Lost Temple (Play at Home)
This game instantly goes in as one of our favourite print and play games. The interface was the real star of the show, but it was backed up by a great story and strong puzzles. We have no problems recommending this game to anyone, and chances are we will recommend it to everyone!
Clue HQ: The Hunt for the Clueminati – Part 1: Astra (Play at Home)
ClueHQ have done a great job in providing an online escape experience that teams can all participate in at the same time and solve puzzles simultaneously. With a couple of tweaks to how you interact with the puzzles it would be pretty close to perfect
The Escape Game: Ruins – Forbidden Treasure (Play at Home)
This room stands out above the rest on set design, but strong puzzles and a good inventory system make it pretty close to perfect. If you can’t get to Nashville, get online now!
What are Online Escape Games?
Online escape games (sometimes known as online escape rooms) are a bit of a new phenomenon that have grown out of the Covid-19 pandemic. But what are they?
Escape Hunt: Murder at the Mansion (Play at Home)
I am never going to be a fan of games that are giant logic puzzles as I prefer a more diverse range of puzzles, but saying that, if you’re looking for a decent game to play with friends (remotely) then this should keep you occupied for a while
clueQuest: Print+Cut+Escape – Episode 2: Alpha Brain System (Play at Home)
clueQuest have turned the difficulty up to 11 for this game and that will likely give you love/hate feelings towards it. We loved it and it kept us occupied for nearly 2 hours, which for £12 is a bargain. If you want a challenge, give it a try!
Safarka Escape Rooms: Dream Gallery (Play at Home)
We liked the premise behind this room and felt it had a strong start and a lovely end, but there were a few areas where it needed improving
Crime Runners: Back to the Congressman (Play at Home)
We very much enjoyed this game and came away with the same type of buzz that we get when we complete a physical escape room. We were truly immersed in the story and were saddened when we reached the end. For now, we’ll just have to wait for the sequel
Clue Cracker: Fairground Felony (Play at Home)
In terms of difficulty this is a step (or five) up from their other online experiences but it still features the same quality of story throughout, and has puzzles that will give your brain a good workout
The Escapement: The Network (Play at Home)
With a well thought out story, great puzzles, and beautifully curated parts, The Network gets you as close to immersion as possible for a play at home game.
Escape Kit: The Mysterious Murder (Play at home)
This game doesn’t really scratch the escape room itch, but if you wanted a party game where you can have multiple teams completing the game either simultaneously or one-after-another then this would certainly be suitable
Co-Decode: Oldervik Online: Chapter 1 – A Jewel In Jeopardy (Play at Home)
While playing this game, one of our team proclaimed “this is the most like a real escape room experience we have had so far”, and to be honest I think it is a good call
Bewilder Box & Eltham Escape: Sector X: The B.R.U.C.E. Project – Part 1
Take a pinch of Bewilder Box, a dash of Eltham Escapes and mix it together with a healthy dollop of fun. Throw in a perfectly blended use of technology, and you have the recipe for a great time.
Escape Reading: Blown Away (Reading)
Despite not being ‘blown away’ by this room, it was an enjoyable experience and kept us engaged well. Take your communication ‘A-game’ with you and you’ll have a good time.
The Panic Room: The Tomb (Harlow)
The Tomb had promise to be great, and it probably once was. For us, it needed some TLC to bring back those past glories. Still a room that will be a hit with the kids
The Panic Room: CSI – The Mafia Murders (Harlow)
A bit run down in places and we think it used to do more than it currently does, CSI will keep you busy and isn’t a bad way to spend your hour, but one puzzle needs ‘fixing’
Escape Nation: Incognito’s Secret Lair (Stafford)
We chose Incognito’s Secret Lair to be our 200th room, so no pressure. This room had a good mix of puzzles and we can easily see this being a family favourite (equally good as a two though!)
Escape in the Towers: The Comms Room (Canterbury)
We can’t say enough how much we loved this room. We never felt like we were playing a game, it actually felt as though we were saving War-era Canterbury, and the epic conclusion here is one not to be missed!
TimeQuest: The Quest to Save Camelot (Paddock Wood)
Going into this room I didn’t expect it to be my favourite at TimeQuest, but it was. The outside-of-the-box thinking and the heavy search element made this very enjoyable for us, and the attention to detail was also refreshing.
TimeQuest: Reset (Paddock Wood)
This is a very different offering to the others at TimeQuest and those looking for a tech heavy room that mostly steers away from padlocks should be in their element
Escape Hub: The Curse of Curawood’s Garden (Maidstone)
We have absolutely no reservations adding The Curse of Curawood’s Garden to the list of rooms that would be enjoyed by players of all ages, young and old alike. Play it, and get lost in Curawood’s world
Escape Hub: Inbound (Maidstone)
A massive step in quality over the earlier games at Escape Hub. Inbound has great set design, good puzzles, and a wonderful journey through the streets of ‘York’
Escape Hub: The Laughing Lair (Maidstone)
This wasn’t a bad room, and we actually had a fun time (especially with the ending). But with a few too many padlocks and a little too much wear-and-tear we feel like this room may be slightly past its prime.
Mythologic: Hypnos (Gillingham)
Hypnos is darker than their other room but has interesting and challenging puzzles. A number of padlocks around the place but a good use of tech breaks them up nicely and keeps it engaging
Get Lost: Director’s Cut (Dover)
Perhaps we’re biased because Get Lost’s room always seem to ‘click’ with us, but we thoroughly enjoyed this room and thought the set design was very impressive. Always love a uniquely themed room!
Hysteria: Aftermath (Chatham)
For us, this room felt like an odd crossover between Jurassic Park and a zombie film – and it worked! Good puzzles in a variety of styles and great set design to boot
Deadlocked: The Time Machine (Reading)
With only 60 seconds to fix the time machine, this isn’t your ordinary room. Technically a 90 minute experience, sci-fi fans will likely find lots to love about The Time Machine (we did)
Hysteria: Motel California (Chatham)
Motel California is a fun room at a company run by enthusiastic and passionate owners. While there is nothing stand out about this room, we enjoyed every minute we spent in it.
Clue HQ: Detonation (Somerton)
A room that won’t blow you away (no pun intended) and is very padlock heavy, but if your observational skills are on point then you’ll likely have a good time.
Lock and Code: Can Opener (Taunton)
A few too many red herrings and generally puzzles that just didn’t click with us meant that we didn’t particularly enjoy our time in this prison van – but that’s the idea of prison vans, right?
The Panic Room: Carnevil (Harlow)
A fun room that’s a full-on assault on the senses! We had a great time in Carnevil and particularly enjoyed the more physical aspects of the room. Possibly one of our favourite ‘Panic Room’ rooms.
Red House Mysteries: The Strange Disappearance of Arthur Moon (Torquay)
The theming for this room was fun but weak puzzles that were easily bypassed and a lack of atmosphere took away from the excitement we should have experienced, and one GM for multiple rooms is never a good way to go.
Red House Mysteries: The Heist (Exeter)
A room with a solid premise but ultimately the execution was lacking. Couple that with a distracted GM and it doesn’t make for the best experience
AIM Escape: Psychopath’s Den (London)
Good set design and a mix of puzzles that has plenty to keep you going. We felt let down by our GM but if your GM is on the ball then you’re sure to enjoy your time in ‘the den’
Escape Plan Ltd: Roll Out the Barrel (London)
We loved Battle for Britain and although this room didn’t quite reach the greatness of that room, it’s a good room which we thoroughly enjoyed. Puzzles were logical, it was fun to be in, the ending was strong and the hosting was spot-on
Live Escape Salisbury: Spectre (Salisbury)
People often visit Salisbury due to the proximity of some ‘large standing rocks’, but ditch the rocks and make Live Escape your destination, you won’t regret it.
Trapp’d: Molten Creek Mine (Northampton)
Yet another fun room from Trapp’d, not their best, but equally not their worst. Be prepared to get dirty so make sure you don’t do this room before a night out! A fun use of tech and on-theme puzzles made this an enjoyable room
Trapp’d: 46 Below (Billing Aquadrome)
A fun room with strong set design and a good story to follow. Families (particularly kids) will love this room! A bit of wear-and-tear that needs to be fixed, but we enjoyed it regardless
Trapp’d: Exordium (Billing Aquadrome)
A good warm-up room for enthusiasts or a great family room. On the easier side so enthusiasts will probably fly through it, but it’s enjoyable and has some nice design touches that we haven’t seen elsewhere
Hour Escape Rooms: Stranger Things (Peterborough)
A fun room with some nice 80s touches. Decent puzzles but ultimately let down by red herrings and an over abundance of sign-posting. A few tweaks to the puzzles, and perhaps the clue system and this could be a great room
Escape Peterborough: The Great Wine Cellar Swindle (Peterborough)
This room won’t blow you away but we did have fun, just not as much as at their other location. The star of the show was the vault itself, the room was an acceptable way to spend 30 minutes
Escape Peterborough: Escape the Seven Seas (Peterborough)
If you’ve done rooms at Escape Peterborough before then this room will be nothing like them. They’ve really upped their game with this room and the only rival for it there is The Cabin. Good theming, decent puzzles (although padlock heavy), but swash-buckling fun
Tricky Escape: The Damned (Clacton-on-Sea)
The Damned has firmly staked out its place as a horror room, but with friendly owners you can probably tone this down if you’re not a fan of jump scares and live actors. Ignoring the horror bits, it’s a solid room with flowing puzzles and fun from the very start to the end.
Tricky Escape: A Race Against Time (Clacton-on-Sea)
This felt like the weakest of the rooms at this location. It could really do with a refresh as it is very worn in a number of places, but if you like the 80s then you’ll probably have fun.
XscapeNow: Sweeney Todd (Telford)
A ’fun’ take on the rather grim Sweeney Todd story. Decent puzzles, good design, and a good flow. We struggled, but we’re not really sure why
Incarcerated: The Tortured Soul (Swindon)
This room was much better than we expected and as a creepy (not really horror) room, it was good fun. The only bit that was lacking was the ending. I’m sure it’s not easy to make exiting into a corridor fun, but it was just a bit anticlimactic
M4 Escapes: The Bunker (Chippenham)
A beautiful room (in places) but the generally weak puzzles let it down. A confusing journey and too many red herrings made us more annoyed than anything else
Trapp’d: Dead Man’s Cove (Kettering)
This room was the highlight of the day for me. I know VX2.0 seems to be getting more love right now, but this room is fun, traditional, and just generally well put together
Trapp’d: VX 2.0 (Kettering)
You’ve got to give Trapp’d credit for what they’ve done with this room. They’ve tried to do something different, and they have. If it wasn’t for a jumpy GM we’d have probably enjoyed this room more than we did
The Cult Experience (Play at Home)
If you’re a fan of horror experiences and have 2.5 hours to spare then it could be worth giving this a try. It’s very different to the Exit Games and we found that if we didn’t mark the book then the experience is reusable
Paradox Parlours: Missing in Action (Dorking)
We loved this room and enjoyed every moment in it. It’s a cracker of a room and even in a team of five there was plenty to keep us all busy
Access Escape: Dark Magik (London)
The key selling point of this room is the darkness. Take that away and you’ll be disappointed. But as it is, it’s a room that’s worth doing just to really test yourself. Try it, you’ll be surprised.
Trapp’d: Motel (Corby)
This was a straight-up horror room, there’s no denying that. But the puzzles flowed and we had fun, even with the live actor tormenting us at every turn. Horror fans will love it
Trapp’d: Maine State Prison (Corby)
When it was new this was probably a decent room. Unfortunately in its old age it has lost its way and become a bit frustrating. Couple the frustration with tired props and it’s good it’s set for retirement.
Trapp’d: Reanimation (Corby)
A decent room that is definitely good for beginners and has enough fun to keep you going. Decent puzzles and theming made for an enjoyable experience.
Pressure Point: Broken (Ashford)
A solid room where you’re trying to barricade yourself in rather than escape. I preferred their other rooms but this was still a good room with decent puzzles and a solid ending.
Time Run Presents: Sherlock: The Game Is Now (London)
This was a fun experience, but for us at least it wasn’t worth the money and was over-hyped. Sherlock enthusiasts will probably love it, escape room enthusiasts will probably find it like Marmite.
Time Lock: Deutschland ‘89 (Worthing)
Everyone knows Brighton has good rooms, it’s nice to see that Worthing can hold its own too. This is a solid room with a great team behind it and it’s 100% worth trekking out from Brighton to do
Pier Pressure: Raver Quest (Brighton)
Pier Pressure have created a room that is 100% fun and if you like some classic old school tunes, you’ll have a great time. Fun puzzles and a top soundtrack will give you a time to remember.
Containment: The Sub (Worplesdon)
A room that’s strongest point was it’s theming, it does well to include relevant props and decor that help immerse you. Tricky at times but doable, this was our preferred room of the three at this venue
Clue Cracker: Jail Break (Tunbridge Wells)
We don’t normally detour to venues with just one room, but as we’d heard good things about Jail Break at Clue Cracker we decided to make an exception and swing by Tunbridge Wells – it was worth it.
Clever Dilemma: Murder at the Wild Wild Quest Saloon (Faversham)
Fun puzzles, a beautiful set, and a story that keeps you guessing right up to the end – get to Faversham and do this room! Certainly one of the best wild west rooms around!
Trapped: The Bletchley Blueprints (Okehampton)
This is one of those rooms that is difficult to review. It’s a good room, but I didn’t overly enjoy it and I’m not sure why. Give it a try and make up your own mind
Adventox: Mission X (London)
Out of the three rooms at Adventox this is by far the weakest. Feeling tired and dated it could do with a bit of a revamp. Couple that with weak puzzles and it’s not a room we’ll be recommending unless you’re really desperate for that escape room fix.
Adventox: Haunted – The Curse of Dr Stevens (London)
Tucked away in a mall overshadowed by Westfields, ‘Haunted’ by Adventox was our favourite room at this location. Solid set design and a fun flow – it’s worth checking out
Mission Breakout: Codebreakers (London)
This room promised a lot but ultimately fell flat in many areas. Perhaps one wow moment in the entire game but even that couldn’t help this room rank higher for us.
Paradox Parlours: Venus (Guildford)
This room instantly went into our Top 10 and it will be there for some time. Strong puzzles, hilarity, and wonderful GM, this is a room not to miss. Flash Gordon for the win!
TimeTrap: Imaginarium (Reading)
A really fun room that encapsulates the spirit of Alice in Wonderland perfectly. Puzzles on theme, set looking great, generally just a good room all round
Ready Escape Rooms: Escape the Vault (Brighton)
A 40 minute room that won’t challenge enthusiasts (we got out in 12 minutes) but it is a whole lot of fun and we thoroughly enjoyed it. A great warm-up or cool-down room and definitely one to add to the list if you’re in Brighton!
Knockout Escape Rooms: The Curious Cabin (Reading)
This is one of those rooms that you enter and think you know what you’re getting but then it finds ways to surprise you and fill you with excitement. On the surface it looks like a simple room but behind the scenes there is a lot of tech working hard to keep you on your toes
Deadlocked: The Phoenix Research (Reading)
In places this was a very hard room, at times it was frustrating, but in the end it was fun. A lot of time was spent on immersing you in the story, and the ending was something a little different
Lucardo: Espionage (Manchester)
This room certainly won’t give you any surprises, nor will it wow you, but it is still a decent room. For us though, this was the weakest of the rooms at Lucardo (Manchester) – but they had set the bar high.
Lucardo: University of Magic: The Entrance Exam (Manchester)
Due to bad experiences in the past we tend to stay away from magic themed rooms, but this one has restored our faith. Now we need to head to the Lucardo Rawtenstall branch to check out the sequel!
Lucardo: Gem Runner (Manchester)
Gem Runner is heavy on the ‘traditional’ escape room puzzles, with plenty of padlocks, codes, and searching and is not a tech heavy room. I could easily see this being a favourite with family groups, or even two person enthusiast groups like us.
Escape Experience Windsor: Area 51 (Windsor)
We got possibly our quickest ever escape time in this room, partially because the puzzles just clicked, but also because there wasn’t that many of them. A fun room but don’t do it in a large group or you may not have much to do
Ten Top Tips for Escape Room Success
Each time we do a room we learn something new, but there are a few things we stick to each time and so far it has seen us keeping a 100% escape rate (famous last words). Here are our ten top tips for completing an escape room
Lock & Code: Dead on the Hour (Taunton)
Lock & Code rooms won’t blow you away but they are solid rooms that will give you an hour of fun. Dead on the Hour was fun, and at times challenging, but once again we left Lock & Code with smiles on our faces
Escapologic: Crypt-ic (Nottingham)
“Like real-life Indiana Jones” that’s what we were promised. It was certainly an adventure through a dark, creepy crypt, but luckily for us (and Indy) there were no snakes
Escapologic: Heistakes (Nottingham)
This is a fun room, but due to how linear it is and the lack of puzzles we probably wouldn’t advise it for large teams, especially if those teams are experienced. It’s definitely a room to give a go though as it is visually impressive.
Escapologic: Butcher (Nottingham)
![Escapologic: 13utcher [Butcher] (Nottingham)](https://www.reviewtheroom.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/butcher-150x150.jpg)
This room is not one for the faint hearted and if you’re of a nervous disposition it’s probably one to avoid. However, if you want a room that it a bit different and will not only challenge your mind but also your bladder control, then give it a go!
LetsXcape: The Rig (Newark)
You’ll be hard pushed to find a room with a better story, and you definitely won’t find a better setting for a room. This room lived up to it’s impressive venue and is well worth a visit/detour
Escape Rooms: Room 33 (London)
This room won’t blow you away but if you want a solid room that will give you an hours entertainment, then this is that (added bonus: free sweets!)
Escapologic: Curio (Nottingham)
This room delivers something that you probably won’t have seen anywhere else. No spoilers – a fun room with some very impressive room design and definitely one you won’t forget
Bewilder Box: Judgement D.A.V.E (Brighton)
The rooms at The Bewilder Box are more than just escape rooms, they are experiences where everything works together to immerse you in their world. Each time you think you know what to expect they do something different, wonderful, and unexpected.
Tulleys Escape Rooms: Dodge City (Crawley)
Another beautiful Tulleys room but ultimately let down by reset issues. Give the room a try, but probably wait a while for them to get it running smoothly – we should have waited.
Eltham Escape Rooms: Keep Calm! (London)
Enthusiasts shouldn’t struggle with this room and probably won’t find anything they haven’t seen before in terms of puzzles, but it’s worth doing if for no other reason than the final challenge.
Escape60: Serial Killer’s Lair (Folkestone)
A fun room but generally nothing exciting to reflect on. Probably a good beginners room but enthusiasts will have seen better.
Get Lost Escape Rooms: The Abandoned Cottage (Dover)
Get Lost Dover currently have three rooms and each is fun in their own way. This was my least favourite of their rooms, but don’t let that fool you, it’s worth doing and does enough to keep you on your toes
Get Lost Escape Rooms: The World Fair Hotel (Dover)
Have you ever done a room where every puzzle just clicked for you? Like you were in the mind of the room’s designer? That’s exactly what happened for us in this room and we enjoyed every minute of it
Escape Plan: Battle For Britain (London)
Do you ever put off doing something because you really want to do it but you feel that the expectation may not live up to the hype? That is why it has taken us so long to do Battle for Britain, now I wish we’d done it sooner!
The MacGuffin Project: The Magician (Bournemouth)
A short and arguably easy room that should probably be a 45 min experience rather than 60. A pretty average room with above average GMs but a weak ending. We expected more from MacGuffin.
Thinking Outside the Box: Retro (Peterborough)
I loved this room, I really did. Retrogaming memories are my weakness and this room exploited them to the max
Clever Dilemma: Dracula’s Chamber (Faversham)
A great room with welcoming hosts and a very good GM. Faversham is beautiful, but this room really makes it worth visiting
Escape Peterborough: Contagion (Peterborough)
If you’re lucky enough to get a good GM then this is a solid room and one we would happily recommend to enthusiasts
Escape Peterborough: Witchcraft & Wizardry (Peterborough)
If things were running smoothly this is probably an ok room, particularly for children or new players. But if you’re an enthusiast I think you’ll find this room rather lacking and one to avoid.
Escape Peterborough: Espionage (Peterborough)
While we did escape, it was only just managed, and we were left feeling a bit deflated, due to both the quality of the puzzles and the attentiveness of the GM
Trapp’d: Madame Curio’s Cirque Delirium (Peterborough)
Lacking in backstory this room makes up for it in the excitement it delivers at all points. Easier puzzles but good for all ages (except maybe the really old).
Tulleys Escape Rooms: The Outfitters (Crawley)
Probably the third best room at Tulleys, strangely we found this one harder than Nethercott Manor despite this being classed as easier by Tulleys
Incarcerated: Cops and Robbers (Swindon)
If you’re looking for a corporate team building exercise then this is probably a good room. If you’re an enthusiast then it isn’t
Co-Decode: Professor Dunstan and the Search for the Ancient Statuette (Swindon)
Don’t wait to be passing by Swindon to do this room. Make it your destination, it’s worth it!
Ctrl Alt Esc: Spacescape (Margate)
A tech heavy room that has a very impressive ending. One of the many rooms that is worth doing in Margate
The Escapement: The Pit (Margate)
Even when you’re receiving the briefing for this room you know it is going to be something special. This isn’t just a 60 minute experience, this is a game changer.
The Escapement: Pirates of Polaris (Margate)
This room is beautiful, it really is, and when a room uses genuine artifacts there is no doubt you are in for a treat
Mountain Room Escapes: Escape the Cabin (Big Bear)
If you’re in Big Bear you should probably get out in nature, but if the weather is bad then this is a great room to do.
Mountain Room Escapes: Alpine Ski Lodge (Big Bear)
A friend had recommended Big Bear as a must-see so we thought this was a good excuse to go.
Escape Games at the River: The Secret of Dragon’s Spire (Palm Springs)
Some great wow moments and so much fun all around. Definitely worth doing!
Escape Games at the River: The Forgotten Pharaoh (Palm Springs)
Although not the best room at this location, it is still the second best room we did in Palm Springs
Escape Room Palm Springs: Bank Heist (Palm Springs)
Our third and fortunately final room at Escape Palm Springs was ‘Bank Heist’
Escape Room Palm Springs: Merlin’s Magic School (Palm Springs)
A room that tries to hard to be special and has a very strange GM setup. I’m not sure this room ever had any ‘magic’
Escape Room Palm Springs: Titanic (Palm Springs)
‘Titanic’ where you have to find the last hidden life boat before the ship goes down.
Stash House (Los Angeles)
Everything just works in the way it is meant to and you find yourself just moving from one puzzle to the next without a care in the world.
Hatch Escapes: Lab Rat (Los Angeles)
If you’re in Los Angeles and there is a room that has been ranked number eight in the world then really it would be rude not to try it out.
Mission Escapes: Escape the Hideout (Los Angeles)
Just around the corner from Disneyland is Mission Escapes, and what better than to do an escape room after Disney closes?
Epsom Escapes: Challenge Chambers (London)
Every single puzzle involved a padlock in one way or another, I don’t mind a good padlock but this took that to the extreme
Omescape: The Penitentiary (London)
Despite this room being a little creepy, it is in no way scary so I wouldn’t let that put you off.
The Panic Room: Defective Detective (Gravesend)
This room didn’t feel up to the same level as the other Panic Room rooms, and although it was fun, we left feeling a bit flat
The Panic Room: The Sacrifice (Gravesend)
A great introductory room for inexperienced players, or a nice little warm-up / cool-down after a long weekend of full length escape rooms.
The Panic Room: Wizard Of Oz (Gravesend)
Don’t be fooled by the theme, this room will give both families and enthusiasts entertainment, and is challenging enough for both.
The Panic Room: The Dollhouse (Gravesend)
Although this room is creepy, and it certainly is creepy, I wouldn’t really call it a scary room and it is definitely fun
The Panic Room: Mind Pod (Gravesend)
£5 per team 10 minutes of your life = a wonderfully relaxing alternative to a traditional escape room.
The Panic Room: Loop (Gravesend)
What a room! This room is not just a must-do room in Gravesend, but definitely one of the top rooms in the country.
The Panic Room: Secret Of Pocahontas (Gravesend)
Although not the most advanced or impressive room in The Panic Room’s arsenal it’s still a solid room and one that’s definitely worth doing.
Operation Escape: WW2 Scoop of the Century (London)
If Operation Escape start taking feedback on board then I think they could have a chance at survival in an already tough market, if they don’t then I fear they won’t be around for much longer.
Lock and Code: The Night before Christmas (Weston-Super-Mare)
We were on for a record time, then we encountered a puzzle we couldn’t solve, but apparently kids can!
Lock and Code: The League of Superheroes (Weston-Super-Mare)
A fun room that is perhaps past its prime and they need to do some maintenance to get it running as it should.
Lock and Code: Breakout (Weston-Super-Mare)
This was a really enjoyable room, a little bit rough around the edges in places but had a good mixture of finding things and solving things.
Puzzlair: The Cold War Catch (Yeovil)
If you like more traditional rooms, or want an introduction to escape rooms then this is a good room to go for. We didn’t rate their other room in Yeovil but this one was the standout winner of the day.
Puzzlair: The Lost Artworks (Yeovil)
This room is probably a love/hate type of room and I’m sure some people will love in. In fact looking at TripAdvisor you can see that many people do, but for us it is one that we’d advise our friends to avoid.
Mostly Harmless Games: Phobos-17 (London)
I saw that Phobos-17 was closing down at the end of the year and as it had such positive reviews we just had to fit it in before it went, so we did.
clueQuest: Operation Blacksheep (London)
A slick operation with a solid room and good story to follow. Not cheap, but worth it.
XScream Escapes: Satan’s Grotto (Ashford)
This 45 minute room shouldn’t be a hard, but for us it was. If you’re looking for a slightly different Christmas room then this one is a lot of fun.
XScream Escapes: Bedlam: Escape the Asylum (Ashford)
With a background in Thorpe Park Fright Nights you’d expect this to be a scary room, it isn’t. It’s creepy but I wouldn’t class this as a scare room (or it wasn’t when we did it)
Clue Adventures: 2 Tickets 2 Ride (London)
What this room lacks in space it makes up for in fun. As soon as you’re in you’re working on puzzles, then you’re on the tube with more puzzles, then you’re off the tube with more puzzles, and just when you think you are done and home free, there’s another puzzles!
Do Stuff Escape Games: Pie & Mash Shop (London)
A fun room, and one that may be a little easy for enthusiasts, a good challenge for beginners, but a great room to do regardless.
Clue HQ Kingston: The Experiments (London)
A mediocre room let down even more by a terrible GM.
Omescape: The Joker (London)
Our first experience with Omescape and turning up at this dodgy looking building just north of King’s Cross did nothing to put our nerves at ease, entering the waiting room did even less for that!
Adventure Rooms Cardiff: The Black Queen (Cardiff)
Credit to Adventure Rooms Cardiff for trying to introduce different technology in the room, it is a great room and definitely one to do if you’re in Cardiff.
Escape Rooms Cardiff: Z Room [BETA TEST]
If this beta test was anything to go by then this is going to be a hard room but good room. Very different to the other rooms we did in Cardiff
Breakout Cardiff: Vacancy (Cardiff)
Not a bad room and there are definitely better in Cardiff, but if you need a room to do then this is a decent contender
Escape Rooms Cardiff: The Tomb
A well designed room with puzzles arguably on the easier side. Probably good for beginners or anyone you want to get addicted to escape rooms
Escape Reality: Alcatraz (Cardiff)
A hard room for inexperienced teams who aren’t confident on their communication, and annoying for experienced teams who like good rooms
Escape Rooms Cardiff: The Heist (Cardiff)
A solid room but make sure you are comfortable working as a split team and are happy with your communication skills
Escape Rooms Durham: Lab Heist (Durham)
There isn’t much to this room and it’s very much what-you-see-is-what-you-get but we found there was enough in there to keep us occupied
The Escape Key: Armageddon (Newcastle)
A strong room with impressive set design and puzzles we’ve not seen anywhere else.
Knockout Escape Rooms: Prison Break (Reading)
The area this room stood out on was not the puzzles, but the set design. They did a good job of avoiding the readily done ‘split-start’ system and have made a truly enjoyable game.
Bust Out 360: Taken (Slough)
It’s easy to be the best room in Slough when you’re the only room in Slough, but it’s still close.
Do Stuff Escape Games: Hostage Hideout (London)
This was a fun room and although basic at times it still has enough to keep you going, although I wouldn’t recommend playing with a large group
Escape from the Room: The Curse of Old Maid Milly (Cheam)
For an enthusiast built room it is really rather good. OK, it isn’t as polished around the edges as some big money rooms but it works and is definitely still fun and worth doing.
Paradox Parlours: The Case of the Missing Gun
A small room that has enough to keep you going and somehow still manages to surprise you.
The Great Escape Game: Submerged (Sheffield)
If you’re looking for a room that does something a bit different then this is the one, it forces you to rely on communication between each other and without it you will go down with the ship.
Escape from the Room: The Cabin in the Woods (Cheam)
This room really has so much to keep you going, and such variety that there is no chance you’ll get bored. I really would have no hesitation in recommending this room to enthusiasts and beginners.
Handmade Mysteries: Poppa Plock’s Wonky Workshop (London)
Handmade Mysteries seem to take a dose of escape room and a pinch of theatre and blend them together to create something truly delectable.
Lock’d: Perpetuum Mobile (London)
This room had promise, it really did but it failed in some key areas that really let it down and means we have no desire of going back and doing any more rooms at Lock’d.
Handmade Mysteries: Lady Chastity’s Reserve (London)
How can you fit so much fun into such a small space?! A great in character GM and a bottle of wine to boot, made this room a winner for us!
Secret Studio: Escape in Time! (London)
It’s true what they say, you never forget your first, and fortunately for us that was ‘Escape in time’. A really solid game with some very memorable moments.