Kamer 237 - "Room 237"

Ryan Driver

Apr 26, 20243 min read

Updated: May 2, 2024

LOCATION:  Volkel, Netherlands

Photo above is property of Kamer 237

Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers

📝 ETR DECODER

🔑 GAME: Room 237
📅 DATE PLAYED: February 24, 2024
🎬 GENRE: Psychological Mystery
🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 4 ppl): 7/10
👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS: 2-6 ppl
🕒 LENGTH OF TIME: 70 Mins. (80 Mins. for 2ppl)
💰 PRICE: Є140
☎️ BOOKING TYPE: Private
🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED?: Yes [59:00]

📖 THE STORY

It is July 23, 1970 when the writer Charles Grady moves into the hotel with his wife and two daughters. He plans to stay for an extended period in order to utilize the tranquility of the hotel to complete his latest book. Before long Charles begins to lose touch with reality as his mind starts to play tricks on him. It's a mystery to what exactly happened during their stay, but Charles Grady and his family have never checked out of Room 237.

🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE

Kamer 237 takes its inspiration from the classic cult movie ‘The Shining’ and although I haven’t watched the it, there are iconic scenes which were still instantly recognizable to me. The game does a great job trying to replicate the psychological excitement of the film with some of the effects that it introduces (no spoilers). Beyond effects, it also has some notable decorative items which make a nod to the film too.
For those, who like me haven’t seen the movie, the set design is still impressive with classic 1970’s décor, authentic props, and a really fun ride in an elevator to experience. We were actually impressed, not only by the overall size of the game, but by numerous surprises which occur throughout.
The puzzles in this game were a hit for us. We enjoyed how collaborative they were and how much depth many of them had. The answers were not always simple or quick to come by, so we truly felt like investigators trying to piece together parts of the puzzles to find out what happened. This is a game where searching and observation, are as important as logic and deduction.
The game briefing takes place in its own reception room, away from the lounge and other rooms. It was decorated to the same high, immersive, standards as the game itself. Here we were told the story and then placed our possessions into one of the suitcases. The Game master did a good job convincing us of her role as a real hotel receptionist. Upon completing the room, which had us exit in to another private room, our suitcase and possessions were also there awaiting us. Thumbs up to the hotel’s concierge department.

🧩 MISSED THE MARK

Other than perhaps updating the quality of some of the props or offering a little more variety with the puzzle styles, there isn’t too much the designers missed with this game.

🏹 TAKE A SHOT?

This is not just a game for people who loved The Shining, we feel that the cool surprises and effects will keep you engaged and provide a memorable experience. Ultimately, if you are someone who likes more thinky puzzles, rather than hands on interactive challenges this is definitely going to be a hit for you.