LOCATION: Montgomery, Illinois, USA
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Photo above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers
📝 ETR DECODER
🔑 GAME: Mafia Heist
📅 DATE PLAYED: June 1, 2024
🎬 GENRE: Heist, Crime
🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl): 8/10
👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS: 4-10 ppl (Ages 17+)
🕒 LENGTH OF TIME: 75 Mins.
💰 PRICE: $36.99/ pp
☎️ BOOKING TYPE: Private
🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED?: Yes
📖 THE STORY
In the mid-1980s, following the completion of the largest heist in American history at John F. Kennedy Airport, the mob is now planning a new heist in Chicago and seeking to enlist fresh members to join their group. Are you ready to prove yourself and become a part of the mafia?
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🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE
The humor and language used perfectly match the 1980s mobster vibe. The mission introduction in the alleyway effectively established the tone for the exciting journey ahead. We appreciated the challenge of infiltrating the facility and the necessity of special tools.
The game is extensive; we found the walkie-talkies provided essential for dividing and conquering different parts of the game, especially when faced with numerous puzzles that required simultaneous attention.
While there were various puzzle types, we particularly enjoyed those that simulated real-life scenarios and demanded creative problem-solving.
The escape room's attention to detail made elements like elevators and subways feel incredibly authentic, prompting us to wonder: "Are we actually moving? Where is the next destination?"
We were impressed by the game master's involvement, as their Boston accent and in-character interactions heightened the immersive experience.
Although some puzzles and hidden features were unconventional, they were cleverly incorporated into the game, adding to the overall experience.
The immersive experience was absolutely elevated by the stunning lighting, cinematic music, and intricately designed sets! Everything came together seamlessly to craft a true masterpiece that left us consistently amazed!
🧩 MISSED THE MARK
Here is a small suggestion for this nearly flawless game: one prop placement could use better cluing instead of having to ask the GM for a clue.
🏹 TAKE A SHOT?
This experience at this location stands out as their most expansive in terms of area, providing a truly immersive journey for participants. The attention to detail in the set design is truly remarkable, transporting you to a different world right from the start. Picture yourself beginning in an alleyway, then navigating through a series of intricately designed rooms, ultimately reaching an elevator that leads you to a subway, all in pursuit of your final destination. The level of realism is so captivating that you genuinely feel like you are embarking on a real journey, rather than just playing an escape room game.
The experience goes beyond mere entertainment; it feels like a genuine mission as you strive to complete tasks for your "boss." Each puzzle and hidden secret encountered along the way serves as a test, evaluating your skills and determination to potentially join the gang. The incorporation of humor into the storyline adds an extra layer of enjoyment, making the experience both thrilling and light-hearted.
If you were to choose just one game to play at this location (although playing all of them is highly recommended), this particular experience would be our top pick. Its combination of intricate set design, immersive storytelling, challenging puzzles, and comedic elements creates an unforgettable adventure that truly sets it apart from the others!
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ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO
Free parking in front
Seasonal haunted house experiences
Lobby with seating
Axe-throwing available
Merchandise and drinks available for sale
WARNING: This room is recommended for ages 17+ due to adult content. Room features motion simulators, mild strobe lights, fog, and intense sound effects
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 Mind Trap Escape Rooms for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever.
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