LOCATION: Columbus, Ohio, USA
Photo above is property of Escape Artists Columbus
Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers
📝 ETR DECODER
🔑 GAME: Protocol Zero
📅 DATE PLAYED: June 1, 2024
🎬 GENRE: Sci-Fi
🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl): 6.5/10
👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS: 2-7 ppl
🕒 LENGTH OF TIME: 60 Mins.
💰 PRICE: $43.00/ pp (2 ppl), $39.00/ pp (3-4 ppl), $35.00/ pp (5+ ppl)
☎️ BOOKING TYPE: Private
🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED?: Yes
📖 THE STORY
During a deep forest exploration, you and your companion unexpectedly come across what appears to be an American space capsule from the cold war era. Upon closer inspection, you discover that this escape pod, designed to bring its crew safely back to Earth, is not only devoid of its crew but has also brought back something else. Your inquisitiveness and opening of the capsule may have inadvertently unleashed whatever was inside, setting off the emergency decontamination process known as "Protocol Zero." Failure to control the stowaway and deactivate "Protocol Zero" could result in the capsule becoming your final resting place.
Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers
🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE
The set design evoked the atmosphere of a deserted spaceship. As we advanced through the game, we activated mechanisms that made us feel like we were energizing the ship to uncover its hidden mysteries.
Some puzzles necessitated physical tools, while others were solved using control panels reminiscent of spaceship interfaces. We appreciated the diverse array of props seamlessly integrated by the designer. Many puzzles required collaborative problem-solving, testing our teamwork and communication skills, especially challenging since we couldn't write anything down, relying solely on memory.
We were particularly impressed by the concealed compartments and surprising revelations scattered throughout the game.
The storytelling approach in this game stood out for its uniqueness. Instead of traditional methods like reading text or watching videos, the narrative unfolded through the exploration of messages left by the ship's former crew, adding a layer of intrigue to the experience.
🧩 MISSED THE MARK
Providing a flashlight to every player would enhance the gaming experience. With the game becoming more non-linear as it progresses, having multiple flashlights would enable players to explore different parts simultaneously and strategize better.
At times, we solved puzzles in the wrong order, leading us to seek clarification from the game master about our progress. This situation could be prevented by restricting access to certain puzzles until the appropriate time.
🏹 TAKE A SHOT?
The set design of this experience truly transported us into a cinematic realm, evoking a sense of being part of a thrilling movie adventure. The captivating dim blue lighting and the introduction of special effects heightened the immersive atmosphere, effectively disconnecting us from the confines of reality.
Each puzzle we encountered during the game added to the tension, making us feel as though we were truly fighting for survival in a high-stakes scenario. The combination of physical tasks and intricate technical challenges, reminiscent of complex mechanical operations requiring repair, provided a well-rounded and engaging gameplay experience. As we progressed through the challenges and eventually succeeded in our escape, the desire to further explore the mysteries of another galaxy aboard a spaceship like this only grew stronger. The entire experience was a perfect blend of excitement, intrigue, and a touch of otherworldly wonder.
ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO
Note: This game is mostly going to be played in dim lit settings
Free parking in front
Lobby area with seating available
Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers
(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 Escape Artists Columbus for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion of the review whatsoever.
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