LOCATION: Prague, Czech Republic
Photo above is property of The Padlock
Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers
📝 ETR DECODER
🔑 GAME: Mission #53
📅 DATE PLAYED: May 7, 2024
🎬 GENRE: Detective, Mystery
🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 3 ppl): 7/10
👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS: 2-6 ppl
🕒 LENGTH OF TIME: 99 Mins.
💰 PRICE: 2099 CZK (2 ppl), 2199 CZK (3 ppl), 2299 CZK (4 ppl), 2399 CZK (5 ppl), 2499 (6 ppl)
☎️ BOOKING TYPE: Private
🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED?: Yes [65:39]
📖 THE STORY
You are new cops investigating your first case with the help of a gnarly seasoned pro, who for the most part leaves you alone to get on with your first real test as police officers. Not everything is as it seems with this murder, there seems more to the story than you first suspect.
🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE
Our first surprise occurred before we even entered the game; after being politely greeted by the GM, she proceeded to bring down the electric shutters in front of the windows, effectively locking us inside, prisoners to the game. Then, projected on to a large white wall as a professionally filmed intro video outlining our mission. The acting was dark and gritty, our lead was a seasoned cop with a taste for the darker perks of the job. He might help us if we really need him, otherwise he’ll be propping up a bar somewhere. All in all, the video did a good job setting the scene, and having it projected so big made it feel more alive than if we’d just watched it on some small tv screen.
This is one of those rooms that makes you instantly gasp and say ‘wow’ as you enter. Stepping inside, we were instantly transported outside! There were so many authentic details and materials used to recreate a dark alley, including real cobble stones across the floor. The immersion was definitely there from the first seconds and continued throughout.
In addition to high quality materials, the game is also littered with special effects, our favourite was the method in which the designer chooses to transport us from one part of the city to another (no spoilers). This moment, once again highlighted how much attention they pay to providing a fluid experience and logical storyline.
Talking of story; this game is all about great storytelling. As we progress, we learn more about the characters involved, such as their backgrounds and motives. This kept us engaged and provided the framework for many of the puzzles.
The puzzles work in a mostly linear format, which as mentioned, play a vital part in the progression of the story. Despite being an older game, there are still some creative and unique tasks to complete. We enjoyed the balance of padlock opening, item searching, and tech based puzzles, that were all logical and in-keeping with the theme.
🧩 MISSED THE MARK
This is a really solid game with very little that needs to be done to improve it further. However, the game is looking a bit tired and worn in places, so upgrading some of those older or damaged props would be worthwhile.
🏹 TAKE A SHOT?
This is one of Prague’s top-rated games and for good reason. Like all The Padlock games there is a high level of attention paid to the game’s construction and storytelling elements. We found some of the puzzles to be quite testing (although completely logical) in places, so perhaps this isn’t ideal for a group of total newbies, unless you’re up for a challenge!
ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO
NOTE: This game is at a different location to The Padlock’s other two games.
Parking is not available on site. It is probably best to arrive with Uber or public transport. There are other escape venues within walking distance, so if you are in town for a few you may likely find yourself just walking between venues.
There is a lobby area comfortable seating and a bathroom which is located inside the game itself.
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 The Padlock for providing a media discount on the tickets for this game. Although discounted admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion of the review whatsoever.
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