Cornstalkers: Lost in the MaizeThe Escape Ventures - Orlando Waterford LakesEscape roomIRLAt the risk of sounding corn-y, Cornstalkers is one MAIZE you are ABSOLUTELY going to want to get lost in!! This one definitely ranks near the very top of the list when it comes to best rooms. To no one’s surprise, CJ, Derek and team have knocked another venture out of the park, this time with Cornstalkers: Lost in the Maize. In typical TEV fashion, this new escape has it all; fantastic set pieces, puzzles that make sense to the storyline and theme, and live actors that completely elevate the experience as a whole. Subtle nods to HHN, but a completely unique theme that has been completely thought through from the moment you walk in the door. Honestly, it was hard to not want to step back to take in the entire set up, with a set that was beautifully crafted and easily transported you right into the Fall Fest. However, there was SO MUCH to do, and I kept saying “Wait, there’s more?!?” with my mind getting blown a little more each time we progressed a bit further. Special shout out to James our Game Master for truly taking the spotlight in this one, he did a phenomenal job that had us chatting and laughing about all of his lines and mannerisms the entire ride home. I think the best hidden gem might just be that we can now follow along as Hexxposed goes live with all of the influencers!
Nightfall: Creature At Camp DeadwoodThe Escape Ventures - Port CharlotteEscape roomIRLTEV has consistently been one of, if not the most reliable source of quality new escape rooms. Their attention to detail does not go unnoticed, and it is highly obvious that the staff Cj and Derek have added all care deeply about the product. I love the fact that they all get so into character, it really helps maintain the immersion. While Nightfall isn’t the most difficult room in the Escape Ventures lineup, it has plenty of challenging puzzles that continue to progress you through the story. Without giving anything away, there are a handful of moments in the game that will leave you saying “wait, there’s more?!” With three solid games at the Port Charlotte location, you definitely should plan on making the day trip to the PC area to check out all three. You surely won’t be disappointed. Just don’t get caught by the creature at Camp Deadwood!!
Operation Arctic Storm: The Final MeltdownThe Escape Ventures - Orlando Waterford LakesEscape roomIRLFinally had the opportunity to playing Operation Arctic Storm over the weekend, and all I can say is “brrrrrrrrrrrrro”!! (Wink wink, subtle nod to Bros 😉). Cj and Derek have truly knocked this one out of the park. So much about their newest room to love!!! Without spoiling anything, this is easily their largest room yet that continues to immerse you with every single step you take. The set is truly amazing, and contains its fair share of surprises. The boys continue to build upon things that have worked in their previous rooms, and add new wrinkles to them. A plethora of puzzles, all of which make sense and fit within the arctic theme. It’s tough to narrow down a favorite room there, as they each have their own unique twist; but Arctic might have a slight edge, as the 90 minute room allows you to stay just a little bit longer! Snow caps off to the entire TEV crew, as the game masters continue to be on their A-game, always attentive and continuously adding to the immersion. If you’re looking for your next great adVENTURE, be sure to walk, run or even ski over to The Escape Ventures to add Operation Arctic Storm: The Final Meltdown to your list.