Escaparium (Laval) - "The Forgotten Cathedral"

Updated: Mar 15

LOCATION:  Laval, Quebec, Canada

Photo above is property of Escaparium

Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers

📝 ETR DECODER

🔑 GAME: The Forgotten Cathedral
📅 DATE PLAYED: March 12, 2023
🎬 GENRE: Horror, Archaeology
🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 5 Players): 6/10
👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS: 4-8 PPL
🕒 LENGTH OF TIME: 90 Mins.
💰 PRICE: CAD $59.99
☎️ BOOKING TYPE: Private
🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED?: YES

📖 THE STORY

Nestled within Escaparium Laval's expansive complex is an enigmatic and long-forgotten monument: an ancient cathedral of great historical significance. Classified as a World Heritage Site, this mysterious structure once served as a sanctuary for a now-extinct cult known as "The Order." Over the years, extensive archaeological excavations and restoration efforts have taken place, unearthing artifacts and shedding light on the cathedral's rich history and the rituals performed by its former inhabitants. Embark on a guided tour that will immerse you in the myths and legends of this forgotten past, promising an unforgettable journey through time. Prepare to delve into a thrilling adventure where your wits and courage will be put to the test.

Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers

🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE

From the moment the game begins, you are instantly transported into the midst of a thrilling 90-minute adventure movie, with your group as the stars. The dedicated staff at Escaparium fully embrace their roles, immersing you in the experience as they guide you to the cathedral in character. Seamlessly blending reality and fiction, they introduce the captivating story that awaits you, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey into the unknown.
The cathedral within Escaparium is an awe-inspiring multi-story set, meticulously designed to immerse players in its enchanting ambiance. The scale of the cathedral is truly impressive, with its towering heights and intricate details that transport you to another world. What sets this experience apart is the fusion of automation and cutting-edge technology seamlessly integrated into the scenic design. Every corner of the cathedral comes alive, with moving parts, interactive elements, and surprising mechanisms that add depth and character to the overall environment.
As players explore the various rooms, they are constantly amazed by the cleverly concealed hidden passages and the mysteries that lie beyond them. Each room holds its own secrets and unique challenges, keeping players on their toes as they uncover new areas and unravel the story. The element of surprise is masterfully crafted, ensuring that players are constantly engaged and intrigued by what they discover. From hidden compartments to concealed doorways, the game keeps players guessing and adds an extra layer of excitement to the overall experience
The culmination of the game takes place in a breathtaking final room that can only be described as a grandiose masterpiece. As players step into this magnificent space, they are enveloped by a sense of wonder and excitement. But the beauty of the final room is not just in its aesthetics. It holds within it a series of challenging puzzles that await to be solved. The intricate design seamlessly integrates with the puzzle elements, creating an immersive and engaging environment where players must put their skills and wits to the test.
The game skillfully balances moments of puzzle-solving with captivating storytelling, creating a dynamic and immersive experience for players. One of the standout aspects of the game is the way it seamlessly transitions from puzzle-solving to storytelling, offering a unique blend of gameplay and narrative. During certain intervals in the game, there are moments when the puzzles take a brief pause, allowing the story to take center stage. It is during these lulls in the gameplay that the spirits within the cathedral grow more restless, intensifying the atmosphere and building anticipation for what is to come. In a clever and innovative twist, the game gathers the players together to witness what can be likened to a cutscene in a video game.

🧩 MISSED THE MARK

Regrettably, there were issues with the sound mixing in the final room that affected the overall experience. The sound levels were excessively loud and unbalanced, making it difficult for players to hear and understand the audio provided by their spirit guide.

🏹 TAKE A SHOT?

"The Forgotten Cathedral" has undoubtedly claimed the top spot as my favorite game of all time. It surpasses all expectations by combining intense moments, intuitive puzzles, intriguing secrets, and jaw-dropping revelations. What sets it apart is the sheer magnitude of the set, utilizing multiple levels and incorporating a captivating second story.

The game's narrative unfolds seamlessly, captivating our attention from start to finish as we embark on a mission to rescue our kidnapped tour guide. The level of immersion is unparalleled, with each puzzle and discovery driving us further into the captivating story.

However, it's important to note that there was a minor issue in the final room with the ambient music overpowering the surroundings, making it challenging to communicate and seek hints. This small setback, though, should not overshadow the awe-inspiring experience this game offers.

"The Forgotten Cathedral" is an absolute spectacle, catering to both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike. It combines all the elements of a truly unforgettable adventure. If you have the opportunity, I highly recommend immersing yourself in this extraordinary game and witnessing its grandeur firsthand.

ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO

Free Parking Lot
For complete experience, being able to climb and crawl is needed
Lobby with a bar and board game cafe
Merchandise available for purchase

Photos above are property of Escaparium

BOOK NOW

(If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from "ESCAPETHEROOMers"!)

Disclosure: We thank Escaparium for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever.