Cutthroat Cavern13th Gate EscapeEscape roomIRLLike everyone has noted, this room has amazing set design and some really cool features. The upper management was great at accommodating our multigenerational group with some last-minute changes. I’m glad we were able to do it. We did not finish, but there were at least two puzzles we will always remember! There were a few things that tainted our experience that seem so fixable, and they are things mentioned throughout these reviews. First, the “room” is huge, so bring a larger group. There is a lot of puzzling to do. It should be a 90-minute room AT LEAST. We got the sense that they want you to return (and spend extra). Please make this a 90-minute room! That will allow teams to enjoy more of the experience. Second, our game master was…subdued and borderline annoyed. It felt like they absolutely hated their job, and it does put a damper on your mood. We are relative newbies but have had fun and enthusiastic game masters. Upper management was very helpful but were hesitant to return after our lackluster game master. Third, the clues aren’t that helpful. You call for help and get a pre-recorded clue. Often, it was moot (we already figured that part out) or vague. More than once, we literally couldn’t hear/understand and spent too much time asking, “what did he say”? All in all, we enjoyed our time. We just have to echo some of the concerns from recent reviewers.
Santa’s Naughty ListMystery MansionEscape roomIRLLight-hearted fun for our group of four (tween, teen, two parents). We needed more hints than usual because we were off our game. We love Mystery Mansion because the staff is very encouraging when you need hints!
Riddle HighMystery MansionEscape roomIRLThis was our first ever escape room (and we love Mystery Mansion) and it’s still our favorite after three rooms. We’re a family of four (tween, teen, parents) and this was an excellent intro. I think we could go back a few years from now and still enjoy it. If you’re Gen X or a fan of The Breakfast Club, you’ll really love the theme.
Potion Master's ApprenticeMystery MansionEscape roomIRLFirst, we love Mystery Mansion! That being said, Potion Master’s has been our least favorite room. There were some fun elements but a lot of red herrings and not as exciting as other rooms at this location.
Operation Nice ListEscape Unknown / Central Arkansas Escape RoomsEscape roomIRLEscape Unknown is owned by the same people who own Mystery Mansion, and they have the same approach (e.g., unlimited clues, fun game masters, etc.) They really care about you having a good time. If you have friends/family visiting, either location is a great bet. Nice List is the sequel to Naughty List at Mystery Mansion. We ranged in experience but everyone had a good time. It’s a multi linear room, which is better for larger groups. The puzzles make sense and are intuitive. We laughed at ourselves for missing a few.
A Robbery on the Intrigue ExpressIntrigue Little RockEscape roomOther This is a neat concept. It’s more like a quest (e.g., MagiQuest or ShadowQuest at Great Wolf Lodge). You have to find items and solve puzzles all over this huge warehouse, while other groups are working on theirs. There’s no time limit, which I loved. My kids prefer the traditional escape room, but I loved it being more laid back. This is perfect for families with younger kiddos as well.
