Our experience with Radio Nowhere started before we stepped into the room, when we were given a clipboard of information to review at a table in the cafe. This gave some key details about a murder that had taken place, along with instructions on where to start when we entered the room. A short while later, we were led into the main Radio Nowhere HQ, and given complete control of the airwaves. We beamed at each other as we caught sight of the studio set-up, with its funky lighting, tape deck and microphone.
The game is comprised of several acts, each of which requires you to complete key objectives to progress. These are delivered in the form of a questionnaire that is posted through a letterbox into the room. Once you've managed to answer all of the questions, you post these back through the letterbox and await the outcome. If all the answers are correct, the lights will dim, and some audio will be played that progresses the investigation. If incorrect, the questionnaire will be posted back through the door with the wrong answers highlighted. The first task we were given was to identify potential suspects. As the game progressed, we were then tasked with establishing motive, means and opportunity for each of these, with the ultimate aim to uncover the murderer.
The most impressive thing about this room is how personalised it is. It's been designed to allow the GM to adapt to the players' strengths and weaknesses. We definitely weren't as comfortable as some might be with the role-playing aspect, which was toned down in the second half of the game. You can live your best life as a radio host, taking listener calls and unlocking new nuggets of information. Or you can focus more on uncovering physical clues throughout the space.
I was surprised at the joy of finding new cassette tapes hidden throughout the room that allowed us to unlock new songs to play on the radio station. There were some fun interactive elements, such as an old computer, a mixing desk and a radio that you can tune to different frequencies. There is also an LED listener count display that updates in real time, based on how much engagement you have with the audience.
Radio Nowhere is unlike any escape room we've played! Part murder mystery, part immersive experience, it took us out of our comfort zone and surprised us in fun and unique ways. The incredible personalisation really elevated the experience for us, which was in no small part down to our incredible GM Ronan. I honestly cannot recommend it enough. It's superb!
A full review of the games on offer at this venue can be found here:
https://escapepuzzler.com/case-closed-edinburgh-uk-feature/