Escapism – Radioactive

Location: Chester
Game Date: 23/08/2021
Team: Amy & Ian
Duration: 60 Minutes

Theme:
“There had been suspicion that M.Corp had been experimenting with radiation and it was confirmed when there was a nuclear explosion devastating the surrounding area. The lingering radiation is turning survivors into mutants.

An underground research facility nearby has been working towards a possible treatment, but an emergency distress signal has been sent out and you’ve been tasked to recover the antidote research. Upon arrival, however, it seems the facility’s self-destruct sequence has been initiated…”
Radioactive started off pleasantly enough, in a lift of all places! The theme got progressively more dark and sinister. The game was themed very well, with a good attention to detail, loads to look at an investigate, and good sense of Immersion. There was a good introductory story to the room, and this was followed up at specific moments in the game.
The space is fairly small to start off with, but nothing claustrophobic or cramped, and the game soon gives way to more open space.
The lighting was good, there are moments of darkness but these are used well for atmosphere, and didn’t impinge on game play at all.

Game Play:
An open game that encompasses many different styles of puzzle, word, observation, logic, math, decoding, skill and physical. A well rounded game.
The puzzles were all well on theme and kept in with the story and setting of the room, there were some excellent puzzle choices in the room with a couple of truly unique challenges.
All the puzzles had excellent logic, with no ambiguity, clear methodology (one puzzle had 2 ways of solving, a very nice touch!) And lovely exciting ah-ha moments. It really was one of those games that just “plays itself” whilst still being engaging and somewhat challenging.
The flow was exceptional, smooth as silk, with no sticky moments (on a purely hilarious, personal note, we missed the most obvious key placement we’ve seen in a long time)
Signposting was excellent, with the puzzles being signposted just enough but the real attention to detail was in some reveals where if something opened in a different room to you, there was a little bell to alert you. This touch was much welcomed!
Overall a thoughtful, well designed room that just proves Escapism have the knack to design excellent games. Their in house games have been getting better and better and Radioactive is the cherry atop an already sweet cake!
Enthusiasts will appreciate the game design and newbies the challenge!

Clue System:
Clues were delivered via a screen

Game Host:
We always get a lovely welcome from Escapism, and our host was no exception, friendly and professional, she ran our game well and delivered excellent nudges when needed

Covid19 Safety:
Masks were not required, and there was ample hand sanitizer around.

Did we escape?
Yes, in 41 minutes!

Website: https://www.escapismchester.co.uk
Price: