What is an escape room? A beginner's guide

Learn all about what an escape room is and how to play

What is an escape room? A beginner's guide
Do not index
Do not index
Imagine finding yourself in a fascinating room, the clock ticking, and your heart racing as you decipher clues and unravel mysteries alongside your friends and colleagues. Welcome to the wide world of escape rooms!
Whether you're a curious novice or an escape room enthusiast, this guide will help you conquer escape rooms. We'll delve into what they are, emphasize their importance in fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills, and share invaluable tips on how to win an escape room. With insights and experiences at your fingertips, you'll be well-prepared to conquer this captivating world. 🌟🕵️‍♀️

What is an escape room?

So, what exactly is an escape room, you ask? In short, an escape room is an immersive adventure game where a team of players uncovers clues and solves puzzles while racing against a clock. The goal is usually to escape one or more rooms while progressing through a story until the mission is complete.
Got it? Good, let's dive deeper. You'll typically have a 60-minute window to tackle these immersive puzzles. Rest assured, hints are at your disposal should your team find yourselves momentarily stumped.
That’s the gist of it, but what truly sets escape rooms apart is the x-factor of camaraderie and teamwork within your group. Similar to pub trivia, escape rooms are all about bringing your collective wits to the table, collaborating with your teammates, and sharing the satisfaction of discovery.
After your team has conquered the puzzles and emerged victorious, your adventure doesn't have to end there. Head to Morty to review your escape room experience, and find similar immersive adventures near you.

Diverse themes await!

There’s truly an escape room for everyone with the incredible array of themes and genres out there. Here's a glimpse of some popular escape room themes:
  • Mystery and detective: Step into the shoes of a brilliant detective, untangle a web of secrets, and decipher cryptic codes to solve a thrilling mystery.
  • Horror and thriller: Brace yourself for spine-tingling adventures as you navigate through haunted houses and eerie asylums, or even fight to survive a zombie apocalypse.
  • Adventure and fantasy: Embark on epic quests, delve into the depths of ancient ruins, or journey into fantasy realms teeming with magic and enchantment.
  • Sci-fi and technology: Immerse yourself in the future as you navigate futuristic spaceships, high-tech laboratories, or embark on daring time-travel scenarios.
  • Historical and period settings: Take a mesmerizing trip back in time to different historical eras, where puzzles and challenges await, steeped in the context of that era.
notion image
With escape rooms offering such a diverse array of themes, you and your team can embark on an adventure tailored to your unique interests. So, gather your fellow adventurers, let your imagination soar, and prepare to unlock the secrets and triumph in the ever-enticing world of escape rooms! 🌟🔒

How escape rooms work

Wondering how escape rooms work? Worry not – we've got your back.
First things first, round up your crew of friends, family, or colleagues – typically ranging from 2 to 8 people – and pick an escape room theme that tickles your fancy. Every escape room boasts a unique storyline, challenges, and atmosphere.
Once you arrive at the venue, prepare for a comprehensive briefing from your game master. These folks are your escape room sherpas. They not only lay down the game rules but also immerse you in the room's backstory and your mission. Pay close attention during this phase; the details shared might just hold the key to your success.
As you step into the themed room, you'll find yourself surrounded by an assortment of possible clues. Your mission? Explore every nook and cranny for clues, puzzles, and hidden treasures. Attention to detail is your secret weapon; every item in the room could be a crucial piece of the puzzle.
Once you’ve checked everything out, you and your crew will put your heads together and connect the dots between various clues. As you progress through the storyline, new areas of the room will reveal themselves, unveiling fresh challenges and mysteries.
Feeling stuck or facing a mind-boggling puzzle? Don't fret! You can call on the game master for hints. Striking the right balance between testing your mettle and seeking a helping hand is all part of the adventure.
The game ends when your team has successfully cracked all the puzzles, accomplished your mission's objectives, and unveiled the key or code that grants your escape.
In a nutshell, escape rooms offer a dynamic and immersive experience that champions teamwork, unleashes creativity, and demands quick thinking.

How do you play an escape room?

Playing an escape room is an absolute blast, and here are some handy tips to make the most of your adventure:
  • Teamwork makes the dream work: Communication and collaboration are the name of the game. Share your discoveries with your teammates and put your heads together to crack those puzzles.
  • Unleash your inner maverick: When it comes to problem-solving, think outside the box. Sometimes, the solutions can be delightfully unconventional.
  • Stay cool under pressure: The clock may tick, and the tension may rise, but keeping a cool head and staying laser-focused will lead you to victory.
  • Sensory sleuthing: Engage all your senses – observe details, explore textures, and listen for any telltale sounds within the room. These sensory cues might hold the golden keys to your escape.
  • Don't overcomplicate: While the puzzles can be brain-teasers, remember that escape rooms are designed to be solvable. Keep the vibes lighthearted and enjoy the process.
So, rally your team, embrace the adventure, and let your collective ingenuity shine as you dive headfirst into the world of escape rooms. Time to conquer puzzles, unlock mysteries, and make unforgettable memories! 🕵️‍♂️🎉
notion image

FAQs

What do you actually do in an escape room?
In an escape room, you'll work as a team to escape the room by searching for hidden clues, solving puzzles, opening locks, and progressing through the storyline. It combines problem-solving, teamwork, and a dash of excitement.
Is an escape room very scary?
The level of scariness varies depending on the theme and venue. Some escape rooms have horror elements and can be spooky, while others are more focused on puzzles and adventure. You can choose a theme that suits your comfort level.
Can you go to the bathroom during an escape room?
In most escape rooms, you're allowed to leave the room for any reason, including to use the restroom. That being said, the clock doesn't stop, so keep your breaks as short as possible to make sure you have enough time to solve the puzzles.
What happens if you can't escape an escape room?
If you can't solve all the puzzles and escape within the allotted time, the game master will usually enter the room and provide you with the solution or end the game. While escaping is the goal, the experience is the most important part!
Are escape rooms suitable for kids?
Escape rooms vary in themes and difficulty levels. Some are designed with a younger audience in mind, while others may have more mature content. Always check for age recommendations and suitability before bringing children.
What if I have special accommodation needs?
If you or a team member have special accommodation needs, such as mobility issues or specific dietary requirements, it's advisable to contact the escape room venue in advance to ensure they can accommodate your needs.
Can you bring personal belongings into the room?
Escape rooms typically have rules about what you can and cannot bring into the room. Common restrictions include not bringing in outside objects, food, or drinks. Always check the venue's policies beforehand.
What if I'm claustrophobic?
If you're claustrophobic or have concerns about being in enclosed spaces, it's a good idea to inquire about the room's size and layout before booking. Some escape rooms are more spacious, while others may have tighter quarters. Rest assured, however, that you can leave the escape room at any time for any reason.
Are there physical challenges in escape rooms?
Escape rooms can sometimes involve physical challenges like crawling, climbing, or lifting objects. It's advisable to check with the venue if there are any physical requirements or limitations, especially if someone in your group has physical restrictions.
Can you play escape rooms solo?
While escape rooms are designed for teamwork, some venues offer solo experiences or allow smaller groups to attempt the challenge. However, be prepared for a greater challenge when playing solo.
What should I wear to an escape room?
Escape rooms can involve crawling, bending, and moving around, so wearing comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes is recommended. High heels, for example, may not be suitable.
Can you play escape rooms if you don't speak the local language?
Many escape rooms cater to international audiences and provide puzzles and instructions in multiple languages. It's a good idea to inquire about language options when booking if language could be a barrier.
How far in advance should I book an escape room?
Popular escape rooms can get booked up quickly, especially on weekends. To secure your preferred time slot, it's advisable to book well in advance, especially for larger groups or during peak hours. Morty is your trusty companion for finding the right escape room for your team and booking with ease.

Discover the best escape rooms and haunted houses near you

Download the Morty app

Get Morty

Written by

Brandon
Brandon

Product Manager of Morty, former founder, and angel investor.

     
     
     
    notion image

    Every immersive experience. Ever.

    Find the best escape rooms and haunted houses around you, track what you've done, and connect with friends.
    notion image