How to Be Successful in Your First Escape Room

Escape rooms are an exhilarating way to challenge your mind, bond with friends, and test your problem-solving skills under pressure. If you've never participated in an escape room before, it might feel overwhelming and you won’t know where to start. But don't worry! With the right approach, you'll be navigating puzzles and cracking codes like a pro.

Here are some essential tips I’ve compiled for newbies after watching my test groups play our opening rooms, Madame Belladonna and Botched! Follow these rules and your first escape room will be a success.

Set Your Brain Free in Your First Escape Room Experience

1. Take Mental Note of the Number and Types of Locks

As soon as you enter the escape room, take a quick inventory of the different types of locks present. Are there combination locks, key locks, or padlocks? Knowing this will help you mentally categorize which puzzles might correspond to which locks, making it easier to stay organized as you find clues.

2. Divvy Up the Puzzles

Teamwork is crucial in escape rooms. Split up and tackle different puzzles simultaneously. Assign tasks based on your team's strengths, and keep communicating about what you've found. This strategy maximizes efficiency and ensures no one gets stuck on a single puzzle for too long.

3. Time Management

Escape rooms are usually timed, so keep an eye on the clock. Divide your time wisely, and don't spend too long on any one puzzle. If you find yourself stuck, move on to another puzzle and come back to it later with fresh eyes. You can always ask for a hint from one of our game masters– as they are always watching and ready to lend a hand.

4. Follow the Clue Chain

If you've unlocked something, it's likely related to the next step in the puzzle sequence. Pay close attention to newly unlocked items or compartments; they often contain the next clue or tool you need. Always follow the trail of clues logically.

5. Avoid Guessing

While it might be tempting to guess a combination or force a solution, resist the urge. Incorrect guesses can waste time or even lead you to bypass critical steps, resulting in clues being used out of order. Stay methodical and patient.

6. Be Observant of Everything

Escape rooms are designed to be immersive, with clues hidden in plain sight. Pay attention to every detail in the room. Objects, wall decorations, and even background music can be part of the puzzle. Nothing is placed without purpose.

7. Words are Likely Clues

If you see words, numbers, or symbols, they are probably part of a puzzle. Look for patterns, hidden messages, or instructions. Don't dismiss anything with text on it, as it might be more significant than it appears. Of course, our rooms are meant to be immersive, so when there is a lot of text, look for the ways we have tried to guide your eyes to the important words. This can be in the form of bold or underlined words, bookmarks, spotlights, or even sparkles. 

8. Don’t Force Anything Open

Never try to force open a lock, drawer, or compartment. Escape rooms are designed with safety in mind, and everything should open smoothly when you have the correct solution. Forcing something can damage the room or lead to accidental cheating. Follow the two finger rule, if it doesn’t move with two fingers of force, then it isn’t supposed to move or will move only after you solve the puzzle. 

9. Pay Attention to Clues from the Game Master

If you receive a hint from the game master, take it seriously. They are designed to guide you toward what you should focus on. These hints can save valuable time and help redirect your team if you’re off track.

Final Thoughts

Success in an escape room is all about collaboration, observation, and logical thinking. By following these tips, you'll increase your chances of escaping within the time limit and, most importantly, have a fun and memorable experience. So gather your team, stay calm, and enjoy the thrill of the escape!

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