An escape room, alternatively termed as an escape game, puzzle room, exit game, or riddle room, involves a group of players working together to uncover clues, solve puzzles, and complete tasks within one or more rooms within a designated timeframe to achieve a specific objective, typically escaping from the game location.
While most escape rooms emphasize cooperation among players, competitive variations also exist. The concept gained popularity in North America, Europe, and East Asia during the 2010s, initially with permanent installations appearing in Asia, followed by locations in Hungary, Serbia, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, and South America. Escape rooms draw inspiration from video games of the same genre, which likely influenced their nomenclature. They are also known as “room escapes,” “escape games,” “exit games,” or “live escapes.” Despite the term “escape,” the primary goal of players may not always involve physically leaving the room, nor is the game necessarily restricted to a single room.
In an escape room experience, participants typically form a cooperative team consisting of two to ten players. These games are set in diverse fictional environments like prison cells, dungeons, or space stations, with the challenges and objectives tailored to fit the theme of the room.
The game kicks off with a brief overview of the rules and the ultimate goal, often conveyed through video, audio, or by a live gamemaster. Once inside the designated area, players are given a set time limit; usually 45 to 60 minutes, to navigate through the room, uncover clues, and solve puzzles that propel them forward. Some escape rooms, particularly those with a horror theme, may involve freeing oneself from restraints like handcuffs or zip ties. While challenges in these scenarios are predominantly mental rather than physical, players need not possess exceptional fitness or dexterity. A variety of skills are tested, from chemistry and mathematics to geography and general knowledge. If players find themselves stuck, mechanisms are often in place to provide hints, whether through written prompts, video or audio clues, or assistance from a live gamemaster or actor within the room.
Failing to solve all puzzles within the allotted time results in a “failure,” but most escape room operators prioritize ensuring players still enjoy the experience, win or lose. Depending on the outcome, players may encounter different endings, such as “good” or “bad” endings, reflecting their success or failure within the narrative. Good endings typically involve escaping within the time limit, completing the room’s objective, or overcoming the story’s antagonist, while bad endings may involve falling victim to the antagonist or failing to escape before time runs out. Some venues offer additional time or expedited assistance to teams facing challenges. Occasionally, teams with particularly fast completion times may find themselves on a leaderboard, with records maintained for future teams to attempt to surpass.
