Mantis
59 escape rooms
This was a fun room with a couple of unique surprises that I hadn't encountered before! Although some improvements could be made in puzzle design (in terms of lighting and visibility), overall, the experience was thematic and decently immersive. The overall difficult was moderately hard. Everyone in our group of 3 started handcuffed (I saw capacity of 5 handcuffed positions). A group of 4 would be ideal for this game. Any more could feel crowded. The puzzles were a mix of observation, following instructions, and applying logic. Some unique moments in the game were well thought out! The overall lighting is normal to slightly dim at places. However, we had some trouble with the choice of colors of the fonts and background, and setting similar shades of color next to each other in the absence of white light created confusion. There were a couple of keypad inputs where it wasn't obvious what button needed to be pressed in addition to the code for a valid entry. The absence of a writing slate/notebook made you rely solely on communication and active recalling. Addressing these foibles and mild frustrations would have elevated the experience further but they did not detract from the game too much. We were still able to complete the puzzles and enjoy our time. The GM was helpful but he wasn't as attentive as the GM's are at other Mystery Room locations (Noida Sector 104, Rajouri). You do have the option of purchasing an additional 15 mins at the end of your game should you need it (and 2 additional clues). Note: There is another room called "Chamber of Secrets" in Spectrum Mall that is a different experience and is set for 45 mins. This one may not be Harry Potter based but is still themed around magic.
Gameplay
Good flow to the room. It was linear and the gamespace itself has a nice flow to it that was well done. Some moments were unique!
Atmosphere
Good design overall. Set was decently immersive.
Customer service
Staff was welcoming with an easy check in and payment process. GM could have been slightly more engaged in gameplay as some of the clues he gave were outdated in comparison to our progress.
Particularly interesting or different
Yes
The magic element is used well here with some "aga" set piece moments.
Story
Elements were well integrated per theme. Not so much development of the story from the initial premise.
Difficulty
Hard
If the lighting were better at places to make fonts and symbols visible better + not be confused between shades and shapes, the difficulty would have been "moderate".
Game tech
Mechanical
There was some tech involved but mostly mechanical.
Ideal number of players
4
Group of 3 experienced players would be good. Any more than 4 could feel crowded.
Scary
Not scary
Was anything broken?
No
Live actors
No
Physically active
Somewhat
At least one person may need to crouch/stay low. Some mild pushing (if instructed) may be required.
Accessibility
Colors may be confusing under the lighting conditions.
Easy to find location
No
It's in a gully that's not immediately obvious. But follow navigation. You will need to use valet for parking and stop before you enter the gully.
Parking
Medium
Self parking is not available at the location. Free (but tip expected) valet parking is available at the start of the alley.
Safety
Yes
