When it comes to interactive entertainment that engages every sense and participants’ problem-solving skills, there’s nothing quite like escape games. If you’ve never been to an escape room before, you probably have plenty of questions about what to expect. Find the answers you’re looking for in the helpful guide below.

A Short Introduction to Escape Rooms

What are they?

An escape room is a game in which a team of people are enclosed in a themed room and given a series of tasks, such as solving riddles and puzzles, to escape before a timer runs out. Almost all escape games take just 40 to 60 minutes to complete, and many facilities offer a selection of rooms, all with different themes that are routinely updated.

Where do they come from?

“Escape the room” games were among the earliest and most popular video games in the 1970s and 1980s. However, it wasn’t until 2007 when a game designer in Kyoto, Japan developed the first in-person, immersive version, usually played in temporary setups in bars and clubs. Beginning in 2012, escape games began to gain popularity in the United States as game hosts set up dedicated rooms in permanent locations.

Are they scary?

One of the primary purposes of an escape room is to excite participants and help them feel the stakes are raised higher than they would be in a video game. As such, they’re usually intense, mysterious, and, at first, confusing. 

Some room themes are inspired by popular horror movies and, as such, ought to be scary, but others are merely chaotic and more family friendly. You can find a game that isn’t too uncomfortable but which you find to be a satisfying challenge.

What if I get stuck?

Escape games are overseen by a gamemaster, a specialist whose job is to ensure participants enjoy themselves and to provide guidance and tips on particularly challenging puzzles and games. If you get stuck, you can ask the gamemaster for help. If, at any time, you want to leave the game, you can ask to do so and the gamemaster will let you out.

When you’re ready to take a shot at your first escape room, get in touch with Nerdscape in Richmond, KY. They offer a variety of escape games and adventure rooms suited to players of all ages, and their dedicated team will spare no effort in making your visit fun and memorable. Call (859) 779-3455 to reserve a session and visit them online for more information.