The UK Escape Room Blog
Puzzle Post consistently produce games filled with quality components and decent puzzles, and The Secret Set is another excellent addition to their line up.
For me, BoxOne was a more enjoyable experience with better puzzles and a more engaging story. But there is no denying the quality of BoxTwo – IT’S SO PRETTY! Fun trinkets to interact with, and some clever dynamics – other than one puzzle, it’s a solid game.
The original was great, but this was greater. Rise of the Fungi is 100% a must-play game. I use the word ‘game’ but this is an experience if there ever was one, and it transcends puzzles and escape rooms.
We were expecting an easy ride on the Ornament Express, but it wasn’t to be. This game unexpectedly challenged us and kept us occupied for nearly an hour. This would be a lovely little game to break out for the family, and as it’s replayable, you could get competitive and break into teams to see who can solve the mystery in the quickest time.
This feels like an expensive game, but actually it’s decent value considering all it comes with and the entertainment it gives. These crackers would be a great addition to any Christmas table (or Thanksgiving for that matter) and our team of four experienced puzzlers were pleasantly surprised by how fun this game was.
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!
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 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.
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.
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
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.
If you’re looking for a digital escape room that actually plays like an escape room, then this one might be for you. The Office is possibly one of the most accurate digital representations of a typical physical escape room that I have seen
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.
Escape from the Cursed Spirit was about as close to being in an interactive movie as I could imagine, with high quality videos featuring artwork and characters from the Jujutsu Kaijen manga/anime series and an engaging storyline, not to mention puzzles that make the player part of the action
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
Why send a card when you can send an experience? The Enigmagram is a wonderful way to send a little something extra with whatever message you wish to convey, whether it’s a Happy Birthday, revealing a secret holiday, or simply to tell someone you’re thinking of them.
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!
The Triwizard Trials would be a perfect choice for a family adventure, particularly if anyone is a great fan of a particular series of books or movies about a wizarding school. With a great host and excellent production values, plus fun puzzles that are perfect for newcomers to escaping, Improbable Escapes once again lived up to my already very high expectations of them.
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).
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
If you’re looking for a festive game to bring the family together, whether you’re all around one screen or dotted across the globe, Santa’s Last Parcel could be a great option for a bit of lighthearted puzzling
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!
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
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.
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.
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!
If you haven’t played the Sleepy Man Trilogy yet, we highly recommend you book now. It’s the perfect time of year for all things spooky and this is definitely one online experience you aren’t going to want to miss!
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!
It’s been a while since we’ve played a boxed escape game that truly wowed us, but The Vandermist Dossier did just that! Everything from the materials, to the story, and of course, the puzzles, had us thoroughly delighted as we followed Abigail’s clues to track down her whereabouts.
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
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.
Rise of the Mad Pharaoh brings a unique twist to the format of former escape rooms turned digital that makes it one of the best examples of the genre that we’ve played. If you’re looking for a collaborative digital escape game, this is one to consider.
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
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!
In my opinion, there aren’t enough space games. Mission to Mars manages to be fun, but also has the potential to be educational. It is on the easier side, making it ideal for a family game night
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
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
It would be impossible to talk about Captain’s Treasure without using the words delightful, clever, joyous, or perfection. If you are lucky enough to live close enough to Swindon to hire Captain’s Treasure, pick your date and book it now. No really; Book now
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.
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
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.
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).
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!
Every now and then a game appears out of nowhere and destroys all of the benchmarks for what I consider to be a truly exceptional online game. Showdown from 66 Minuten was one such game.
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.
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.
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
Humbug Hijinx was a sweet little game (yes, that was totally intended.) It’s a little clunky, but there are some solid puzzles, and even better, you’ll find an extra treat waiting for you upon completion.
I loved everything about The Sapphire Palace, from the interface to the puzzles, and the format to the story. But at $20.00 per player for a game without a live host, I’m going to have a hard time recommending this game to the majority of escapers, even though it is fantastic. But if you’ve got the budget, go for it!
Based on actual(ish) events, Tunnelling Through Time combines a bit of time travel with pleasing puzzles, and the magic of the movies to deliver a digital escape like no other. With 100% of the proceeds going directly to The Brunel Museum, I can’t think of a better way to have fun, learn something, and support a great cause; can you?
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.
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
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!
Interrogation Room is on the tougher side, and was not at all what I was expecting story wise, but still full of the satisfying, and solid puzzles, and fun that I have come to expect from District 3.
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!
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.
Haunted is one of those games that I wish we had actually had the opportunity to play in person, if only to experience the set first hand. But the format adopted by District 3 to bring Haunted online ensures that nothing missed and other aspects are enhanced
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
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
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.
While I did enjoy Contraption more when we played in person, the online-avatar adaptation was still great fun, and well worth considering for your next remote escape.
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’
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 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.
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.
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
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!
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.
With physical and tangible items, The Unusual Suspects is one of the few games we have played in the last year that has come closest to truly replicating the feeling of an escape room at home, with loads of quality puzzles and the satisfaction of an actual lock to open
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
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.
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
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 Puzzle Book Experience was similar to other games of a similar nature from The Panic Room, and had a few puzzling highlights, and a few tricky moments. Just remember: Don’t Panic!
Escapers looking for a tangible play at home game that won’t break the bank and isn’t an Exit box would do well to look at the range of Puzzle Books from The Panic Room. The Book of Grimm had some solid puzzles and kept us entertained for well over an hour, while providing a nice dose of nostalgia for some favourite childhood stories
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
Can you have wholesome family friendly zombie fun? Apparently you can at Improbable Escapes. Unless of course, you’re concerned about a few severed limbs. I have little doubt that Cure for the Common Zombie would be better in person than remotely, but even online it was still good fun.
I think we could all use a little more love in these trying times, and whether you choose to play Mechanics of the Heart on Valentines Day, or not, the message is the same, and a perfect way to share the love with those you care about.
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.
Horror or supernatural-themed games (zombies excluded) are not often my first choice when choosing a game, and yet, The Virtual Exorcist is possibly my favourite online-avatar game that we’ve played to date, with The Beast close behind. Play them both – you won’t regret it.
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
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!
Unique, funny, surprising, clever, and occasionally shocking, Pursuit of the Assassin Artist was something I didn’t even realise was possible, let alone needed, in an escape game. If companies continue to create games like this, online escape games will persist long after we’re allowed to play in person once again. And I for one, will welcome it
We’ve enjoyed all of the Print+Cut+Escape games from clueQuest, and Prison of Memories – Part 1 was no exception, with its clever puzzles and high production value. Now, to patiently wait for Part 2…
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
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
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
This is the game we didn’t know we needed, but we are so glad it exists! This game was great, and comes with a souvenir for your troubles. We need more nice things like this!
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
We had a fantastic time playing Patient Zero 2150 online, but sometimes you play an online avatar escape game, and wish that you could have played it in person. I’m honestly not sure which experience would have been better, so if you can’t make it to London, you won’t be disappointed playing online
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!
The Return of the Magician incorporated magic and just a bit of mystery to bring to life a thoroughly enjoyable game with wonderfully satisfying puzzles, suitable for the whole family, or just a group of friends that want to get together for a digital adventure.
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
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
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’
We weren’t massive fans of a few puzzles, but Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a visit from the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, and thanks to RC Escapes, we can all now enjoy the Dickens’ classic as an escape game
Of the three puzzle cards currently on offer from Mystery Mail, School of Witchcraft and Wizardry was our favourite and stood out as something special. This card is a completely magical way to tell someone something special
Are you looking for a different sort of holiday greeting card to send to the Escape Room Enthusiasts/puzzle fiends in your life? A Very Merry Christmas from Mystery Mail offers a fun alternative to the traditional cards that are the hallmark of the season
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.
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?)
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.
If you are looking for a festive game that is suitable for the whole family, full of satisfying puzzles, terrible jokes, and of course, mince pies, look no further. B.R.U.C.E. Saves Christmas is a perfect game for a socially distanced holiday gathering
Does the perfect Christmas game exist? Well, I can’t say for sure, but if it isn’t, then The Hot Chocolate Incident comes pretty close, and I can’t think of a more perfect way to get into the holiday spirit
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.
On Course for Kantawe is certainly a mission, with four to six hours of gameplay, and is definitely one for those that are up for a challenge. If you haven’t already played A Jewel in Jeopardy or Operative Onboard, start there. If you have, well then, what are you waiting for?
If you’re looking for some light-hearted family friendly fun, with some trickier puzzles to keep your brains sharp, Carnival is an excellent option, and perfect for remote teams.
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
We were impressed with ESC the Game’s first offering to the world of online escaping, and ESC From Sub TXI is equally as enjoyable, if not more so. With an arguably near-perfect online interface for remote teams, coupled with clever puzzles and a nice game flow, Sub TXI is one to consider
Paradox Parlour’s first play-at-home escape game is as excellent as their first physical escape room, and The Disappearing Diamond is not to be overlooked when planning your next game night. I can only hope that there will be more Maxwell Mysteries to come in future.
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
If you’re thinking about trying your first (or even your 101st) online avatar game, I heartily recommend giving The Mystic Ruins a try. It’s an exceptional game, with a wonderful host that is perfect for beginners and enthusiasts alike
DTF is delightful, campy fun, made even better by the interaction with FloBot. Filled with laughs aplenty, satisfying puzzles, and all the glitz and glamour I expect from a drag show
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.
We really had no idea what to expect from A Deadly Dose, and although it has become abundantly clear that we should probably not take up a second career in detecting, it was a fantastic experience.
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
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!
If you’re looking for an immersive, family-friendly adventure you can’t go wrong with The Bewitched Circus. The game is perfect for Halloween, but don’t worry, any spooky theming is very light, and the game would be a delight at any time of year
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.
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.
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 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!
It’s incredibly important to be able to correctly identify the various creatures that go bump in the night, and know how to respond accordingly. With excellent Halloween theming, family friendly content, clever puzzles, and beautiful artwork, clueQuest’s Halloween Survival Escape Training is a delightful way to to get into the mood for the Spookiest Time of Year
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
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?!
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.
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
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.
With a catchy theme song, immersive narrative, wacky humour, and clever puzzles, not to mention achievements to unlock and a nifty completion certificate, there’s nothing not to love about The Movember Virtual Escape Room
With a few tweaks to up the immersion factor, Zombie Apocalypse could be a fun way to spend an hour online, but with a price tag of £109, the game really should have been something spectacular. Unfortunately, it’s just not there yet, and despite the efforts of our lovely avatar, our experience just fell a bit flat
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
In their marketing, The Detective Society promises to deliver an “immersive, narrative-driven world,” and they certainly haven’t disappointed. If you enjoyed games like The Network, Hunting a Killer, and Missing, (among others), this is definitely one for you, and well worth the price.
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.
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?
Although the design is basic, the puzzles are solid and the game is good fun. Considering it is currently free to play (although donations are gratefully received and will be used for the next build), it’s well worth a go. But be quick – Endgame is departing mid-October to make way for a new remote escape experience
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)
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.
The Exorcism of Isabelle was our first foray into the world of The Panic Room’s puzzle book/print and play options, and it was not a disappointment. With some mechanics that were vaguely reminiscent of the games in the Exit the Game series, and satisfying puzzles, The Exorcism of Isabelle could be a perfect choice for a game night.
As the easiest of the games on offer from Trapped, Carnival is a perfect choice for the whole family (aged 8+ according to Trapped). Thanks to the format and the puzzle styles, I can see this being a great hit at a children’s birthday party, or even the next family reunion
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
Trapped have raised the bar for my expectations from an escape room in a box. The Art Heist is possibly on the easier side for hard-core escape enthusiasts but would be perfect for a family get-together
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)
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
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!
Gather your closest friends (or enemies), put your own tiny humans to bed (if you have any), and get ready to accept a remote “babysitting job.” Seen really is no ordinary experience
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
I didn’t realise that it was possible to have more fun than I did playing The Heist, but Cyborg Island has surpassed its predecessor. Well done TAiR, well done
The games from Epic Escapes are one of the only play-at-home experiences we’ve found that, when played correctly, can accurately and easily transport an escape room into your living room. If you’re looking for something to spice up your usual boardgame night, look no further
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 is a great concept, perfectly delivered (no pun intended) and has so many uses. Party invitation? Pregnancy reveal? Happy Birthday message? So many options!
Final Call was full of humour, pleasing puzzles, and of course, Zombies. But it was the finale that really made it something special, and has firmly cemented the game in my mind as one of the most unique experiences we’ve had while escaping online
I often see requests for games that are “family-friendly,” and I wholeheartedly recommend Atlantis! In fact, I would recommend it even if your family doesn’t contain any children
The Hunt for the Crimson Fang was completely bonkers (but in a good way). Of course, with a name for the operation like The Nocturnal Underground Tactical Squad, we really should have been prepared for this, after all, what sort of covert operation gives themselves the name NUTS?
clueQuest have added another excellent play-at-home option to their already stellar collection. Humanity 2.0 continues the narrative begun with Stolen IQ, and takes the series through to its conclusion
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
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
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
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
Part 2 of The B.R.U.C.E. Project was a fun game and provided a sense of closure to the narrative that began with Part 1
Imaginarium is a delightful little free game, enjoyable for all, but particularly perfect for families. If you want to try a digital escape room with the kids, it’s definitely one to try
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
Of the two digital games currently available from The Escape Game, we felt that The Silk Road was the stronger, but only just, and we’re looking forward to the eventual release of Vol. 3
A Lost Memory was a perfect rainy day activity, that could be spread out for hours (or days) of entertainment. It’s on the more challenging side, but it’s perfect for people that love puzzles
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
A point-and-click game that had some good puzzles and was well assembled, for £8 it’s on the money. If you like point-and-click style games then this is a good choice, although it may not keep you occupied for too long
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!
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
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
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
If you’re looking for something that feels a bit more realistic and immersive than many of the online escape style games out there, look no further than Missing for your next mission
Tick Tock: A Tale for Two is a beautifully designed game, with gorgeous graphics and clever puzzles, and will satisfy even the pickiest customer looking for a virtual escape room style experience
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
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!
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
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!
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
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
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
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
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.
CSI: Stranglehold was the strongest of the games in the CSI series from The Panic Room (that we’ve played), and was reminiscent of a detective/murder mystery live escape game, making me strangely nostalgic for one
While heist-themed games are unlikely to ever be my favourite, Operation Jackpot kept us entertained with decent puzzles for over an hour. It’s simple, but effective
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
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.
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!
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.
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!
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
The Haunting of Harlequin House is the most complex of the Clue Cracker online games filled with more intricate and multi-layered puzzles. This, plus the slightly more sinister theme, may mean it’s one to skip if you often play with very young children, but definitely not one to miss if you don’t (or once you’ve put them to bed if you do)
Deadlocked don’t do things by halves, and The Cyphstress is a work of art, with beautiful design, clever and complex puzzles, a strong narrative, all subtly blended with the mythology behind Siren Craft Brew
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
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
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
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!
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.
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
Not without its flaws, but with a mixture of complex, varied, and engaging puzzles, and over two hours of content, that can be played in one sitting or broken into multiple chapters, at $2.50 per person, it’s incredibly good value, and worth playing if you’re up for a challenge.
An immersive, audio-led, choose your own adventure, high-stakes heist, Agent Venture isn’t truly an online escape room; in fact it’s so much more. If you’re looking for something different to do, look no further, and book your adventure now
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.
Mansion Impossible is a fun, family-friendly way to spend an hour or two. With a lovely little homage to live escape games that made me giggle with delight, this was my second favourite of the digital games on offer from The Panic Room, but it only just missed out on being my favourite.
My Dearest Emily is easily my favourite of the online offerings from The Panic Room. With a lovely story, a bit of history, trickier puzzles, and some beautiful illustrations, what’s not to love?
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!
Ready Mayor One was full of surprises and some great ‘Ah-Ha!’ moments; the interaction with A.L.I. and Mayor Rob was just the icing on the cake, making an already good game great
Chronicle took the strengths of Astra, and improved on any weaknesses. If you haven’t played any of The Hunt for the Cluminati series yet, you’re missing out
If you’re looking for a game to introduce someone to the world of online escaping, CSI: Grounded is a good choice, with a few “easy win” puzzles, bolstered by a few more difficult tasks to keep things interesting
The text-adventure game design means that Medogan may not be for everyone, but I enjoyed the narrative-driven, imagination-invoking adventure, and will definitely be on the lookout for Episode 3. If the strength of Modern Fables’ text game is anything to go on, then I can’t wait to finally make it out to their live games when the world restarts
If you’re looking for a great room to play from the comfort of your own home, we have to agree with the recommendation we received: This game is definitely one of the best we’ve played
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!
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.
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!
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
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!
Nothing is ever going to be quite the same as playing a physical escape room in person, but the virtual version of The Laboratory came close, and was everything I could ask for in a game: good theming, clever puzzles, and a great host. I’m only sad that I won’t get to play it in person
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
If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity, look no further than Cosmic Panic and prepare for a fun, and surprisingly immersive, adventure
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!
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
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
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
I have loved logic puzzles for as long as I can remember and that love allowed me to enjoy Stolen a bit more than I might have otherwise. It’s not a bad game, but it was let down by the lack of a clear, or really any form of, conclusion
If you’re looking for a game to dip your toes into the water of virtual escape rooms, look no further! The Disappearance of DJ McDee is a great way to try out the format before committing to Clue Cracker’s paid games (which are also highly enjoyable.) And yes, the song is really catchy
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.
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
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
A perfect balance between online treasure hunt and escape room. The experience was slick, well thought-out, and with puzzles that had varying levels of difficulty. Refreshing to see something different
Often in live escape games, the communication challenges can be some of the most difficult tasks teams come across. Alone Together is a great little game to hone your communication skills so you can impress the GM once we can finally play outside again!
On the easier side for enthusiasts, but perfect for the family. All in all, it’s a great intro to remote escaping and scratched a little bit of the escape room itch we’ve been feeling – and there was a dinosaur!
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.
A solid game that was incredibly well priced at £12 for the print at home version. Puzzles ranged in style and difficulty and many were actually similar in style to those that one would find in a live escape experience
If you haven’t already been convinced to try The Insiders, I don’t know what else I can say. It is without a doubt the best play at home game we have taken on to date. The Insiders is surprisingly immersive, incredibly clever, and just downright fun
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
