The Ultimate Guide: How to Prepare for an Escape Room

Welcome, fellow adventurers! 

Today, we’ll embark on a thrilling journey to unlock the secrets of The Escape Adventures Chester, one of the most exhilarating escape room experiences you’ll ever encounter. 

But first, let’s get down to the basics.

What is an Escape Room? 

An escape room is a live-action game where players are “locked” in a themed room and must work together to solve puzzles, decipher codes, and unravel mysteries to “escape” within a set time limit. 

Sounds exciting, right?

The Importance of Preparation

Like a Boy Scout, being prepared is the key to success in any escape room adventure. This guide will help you strategize, sharpen your wits, and maximize your chances of escaping!

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Locks in an escape room

Benefits of Participating in an Escape Room

Escape rooms offer numerous benefits, including team building, critical thinking, and communication skills development. Plus, they’re just plain fun! 

  1. Team building and collaboration

Escape rooms foster teamwork and cooperation, requiring participants to collaborate and communicate effectively to solve puzzles and progress.

  1. Enhance Problem-Solving Skills

Escape rooms offer a variety of challenges that encourage critical thinking, creativity, and innovative approaches to find solutions and complete tasks.

  1. Boost Time Management Skills

With a time limit to escape, participants learn to prioritize tasks, make quick decisions, and efficiently utilize their time to achieve their goal.

  1. Improve Attention To Detail

Escape rooms demand keen observation and focus, pushing players to spot hidden clues, notice patterns, and draw connections between seemingly unrelated elements.

  1. Immersive Entertainment

The interactive and immersive nature of escape rooms provides a unique, engaging experience that combines storytelling, live-action gameplay, and fun.

  1. Social Interaction And Bonding

Escape rooms create opportunities for players to bond with friends, family, or coworkers, strengthening relationships and creating lasting memories.

  1. Boost Self-Confidence

Successfully completing an escape room challenge instills a sense of accomplishment, enhancing self-esteem and confidence in one’s problem-solving abilities.

The beginner’s guide on how to prepare for an escape room

Family in an escape room

How do I prepare for an escape room? 

Preparing for an escape room is a bit like getting ready for a first date – you want to look sharp, think fast, and bring your A-game! To prepare, brush up on your problem-solving skills, communication, and teamwork. Oh, and don’t forget to get a good night’s sleep beforehand! 

More on “How to Prepare for an Escape Room” is iterated below. Read on! 

How to Choose the Right Escape Room

Discover the secrets to an unforgettable adventure as we delve into how to choose the perfect escape room. Unlock your potential for team-building, cognitive growth, and exhilarating fun by making the right choice. 

  1. Read online reviews

Check out Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Google Reviews to see what other adventurers have to say. Trust me; they won’t sugarcoat their experiences!

  1. Check out the escape room website

You’ll find a wealth of information, from themes and difficulty levels to pricing and booking availability.

  1. Call the venue for additional information

Don’t hesitate to pick up the phone and ask questions. The staff will be more than happy to assist you.

  1. Look for specific themes

Is your team into zombies or spies? Or maybe pirates? Choose a theme that will capture your team’s imagination. Or a theme that everyone is excited about. 

  1. Choosing the Right Level of Difficulty & Size

Escape rooms come in various sizes and difficulty levels. Be honest about your team’s abilities and choose accordingly. 

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Escape Room Concept

Assemble Your Escape Room Team

Assembling a well-balanced team is crucial in escape rooms, as diverse skill sets and perspectives lead to effective problem-solving and a higher chance of success. 

  1. Select team members with different skill sets

Find a balance of puzzle solvers, logical thinkers, and creative minds. Variety is the spice of life, after all! 

  1. Determine the size of your team

Check the room capacity and choose the perfect number of teammates to maximize your chances of success. 

  1. Plan a pre-game strategy meeting

Get everyone on the same page before the big day. Here’s the kicker – a solid game plan can make all the difference! 

  1. Establish team communication

Practice clear and effective communication to ensure everyone’s on board during the game. 

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Practice Problem Solving for Escape Rooms – What should you do before going to an Escape Room? 

Practicing problem-solving for escape rooms sharpens your critical thinking and puzzle-solving skills, making you better equipped to tackle challenges and contribute to your team’s success.

  1. Play puzzle games

Sudoku, crosswords, and other puzzles help hone your problem-solving skills.

  1. Solve riddles and brain teasers

Give your brain a workout and challenge your teammates to riddle-solving contests. Brain teaser examples

  1. Practice logical reasoning

Logical reasoning puzzles will sharpen your wits and help you think outside the box.

  1. Critical Thinking Exercises and Games

Try games like chess, Risk, or even video games that require strategic thinking. Strategic thinking puzzle examples

  1. Preparing Mentally

Get into the right mindset by visualizing success and focusing on the tasks at hand.

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Looking Unknown Future

Dress For Success in Escape Rooms 

Dressing for success in escape rooms ensures comfort and mobility, enabling you to focus on solving puzzles and navigating the environment without being hindered by restrictive clothing or footwear. 

  1. Wear comfortable clothing

Choose clothes that allow for easy movement and breathability.

  1. Wear comfortable shoes

You’ll be on your feet, so make sure your shoes won’t slow you down. Wear closed-toe shoes for easy movement. 

  1. Avoid wearing jewelry or other items that could get in the way

The last thing you want is to lose your favorite necklace in a secret compartment!

Everything you need to know about solving puzzles

Do you need to bring anything to an escape room? 

Bring your wits and an open mind! Escape rooms are logic based games designed to immerse you in an experience and/or story. Look for clues, discover the secrets, and find your way out! 

Read below to find more on what to bring and not to bring. 

What to Bring to an Escape Room

Bring a clear mind and a positive attitude to an escape room, as these qualities will help you stay focused, embrace teamwork, and fully enjoy the immersive experience.

  1. Bring ONLY the Essentials

This includes a valid ID, your booking confirmation, and a sense of adventure!

  1. Bring a pen and paper

Jotting down clues and notes can be a lifesaver when solving puzzles.

  1. Bring a flashlight

Some escape rooms have dim lighting, and a flashlight can help you uncover hidden secrets.

  1. Bring your cell phone

Keep it on silent, but have it handy for emergencies or post-game selfies!

Debunking the myth: You have to be a genius to do an escape room

Center Maze

Pre-Escape Game Essentials

Before entering an escape room, ensure you’re well-rested and have eaten a light meal, as physical and mental energy are key to solving puzzles and overcoming challenges effectively.

  1. Arrive Early

Get there 15-20 minutes before your scheduled time to avoid last-minute stress. 

  1. Allow enough time to find the venue

More about this in 2 minutes… but seriously, give yourself plenty of time to navigate unfamiliar areas. 

  1. Avoid getting lost

Use a GPS or map app to ensure you arrive at the correct location. 

  1. Familiarize yourself with the area

Scope out nearby parking, restaurants, or attractions to make the most of your outing. 

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Tips for Escaping Faster – How do you Solve Escape Rooms Fast? 

To escape faster, maintain clear communication and divide tasks among your team, leveraging each member’s strengths to efficiently tackle challenges and solve puzzles collaboratively. 

  1. Pay Attention to the Rules

Know the do’s and don’ts of your escape room to maximize your success.

  1. Understanding the Storyline

Get into character and immerse yourself in the narrative to enhance your experience.

  1. Ask questions if necessary

Don’t be shy! The game master is there to help, so if you’re stuck, ask for a hint.

  1. Follow the rules

Remember, breaking the rules can result in penalties or disqualification.

  1. Work as a Team

Collaborate, share ideas, and support each other to achieve your common goal.

  1. Communicate effectively

Keep the lines of communication open and ensure everyone’s voice is heard.

  1. Allocating Tasks Effectively

Divide and conquer! Assign tasks based on each team member’s strengths.

  1. Exploring Every Possibility in Each Room

Don’t leave any stone unturned. Search thoroughly for clues and hidden objects.

  1. Manage Your Time

Keep an eye on the clock and set mini-goals to stay on track.

  1. Stay focused and motivated

Keep your spirits high and don’t give up, even when the going gets tough!

Why escape rooms make the perfect date night activity

Girl and a boy playing an escape room

Now that you’re well-equipped with the ultimate guide, it’s time to put your skills to the test at The Escape Adventures Chester! Prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.

Remember, proper preparation is the key to success. So, follow these tips, crack a joke or two, and enjoy your escape room experience to the fullest. 

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Good luck, and happy escaping!

Cheers! 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

Do you have to empty your pockets at a escape room?

We don’t require players to emtpy their pockets or lock up their personal belongings and phones before the game begins. With our games being designed to not require outside knowledge, there’s no need to worry about players bringing an edge to the game with their cell phone.

What do I need to know before going to an escape room?

The most important thing to bring to an escape room is an open mind and a desire to have fun. Having an open mind will help you find clues and think of solutions faster, but nothing is more important than the experience. Escape Rooms are about experiencing a story.

What happens when you go to the bathroom in escape room?

If you need to leave one of our games at any time, simply go back the way you came. There is always an unlocked door in case you need to goto the bathroom, or step out for a phone call. The clock will continue to run however.

Are phones allowed in escape rooms? / Do escape rooms take your phone?

Most escape rooms will ask you to leave your phone behind or turn it off. They’re like movie theaters – nobody wants spoilers, and you’ll be too busy having a blast to snap selfies anyway!

Can you be late to an escape room?

Our games are scheduled with just enough time between to reset the game for the next group. We do allow for a grace period of 15 minutes. If you have not arrived by 15 minutes after your scheduled game time, we will need to start the timer. If you still want to play, your time will be reduced accordingly. You may also contact us and try to reschedule if neccessary.

How do the keys work in escape room the game?

Each escape room is unique, but generally, keys are used to unlock locks (shocking, I know!). Keep an eye out for anything resembling a keyhole, and remember that sometimes the key to success is hidden in plain sight!

What should you do in an escape room? / What do you do during an escape room? 

During an escape room, you’ll work together to solve puzzles, decipher clues, and crack codes. Communication is key, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Or inside the box. Or around the box. You get the idea!

What actually happens in an escape room?

In an escape room, you and your team will be “trapped” in a themed room, tasked with solving a series of puzzles to escape within a set time limit. It’s like a real-life video game, minus the pixelated graphics

What is the first thing to do in escape room? / What should I do first in an escape room?

Once the game master has started the game, step one should be searching. Look for anything and everything. You’ll want to identify any information that is out in the open and see if you can find any objects which might be part of the game and can be used or moved. 

TEA HINT: Don’t overlook the obvious! Many escape rooms are designed to have “easy” first steps, but players tend to work themselves up and overthing the situation. We call this “Escape Room Brain”.

Are escape rooms hard to solve?

Escape rooms can vary in difficulty, but fear not! Even if you’re a beginner, most rooms are designed to be challenging yet solvable with a healthy dose of teamwork and brainpower.

How to do an escape room for beginners?

For beginners, choose an escape room with a lower difficulty level, and don’t be afraid to ask for hints if you’re stuck. Remember, it’s all about having fun and working together!

What to expect from your first escape room?

Expect excitement, adrenaline, and a whole lot of “Aha!” moments during your first escape room experience. Just like a roller coaster, it’s all about the thrill of the ride!

Do escape rooms have microphones?

Some escape rooms may have microphones to monitor your progress and provide hints when needed. Don’t worry, Big Brother is only there to help you escape, not judge your questionable puzzle-solving skills!

Are escape rooms hot or cold?

Escape rooms can vary in temperature, but they’re typically kept at a comfortable level. Still, it’s always a good idea to dress in layers, just in case you find yourself in a room that feels like the Arctic tundra or the Sahara desert.

Do escape rooms have toilets?

Escape rooms typically don’t have toilets inside the game area, but don’t panic! They’ll have restrooms available for use before and after the game. Just make sure to take a bathroom break before you start your adventure.

How much money do you need for an escape room?

The cost of an escape room can vary depending on the location and complexity, but you can expect to spend anywhere from $20 to $40 per person. It’s a small price to pay for an unforgettable experience!

We at The Escape Adventures Chester have a special pricing for younger players:

– General admission: $30 per player

– Children under 13: $25 per player

– Children under 5: FREE

Subject to a minimum booking amount of $75.

We also offer 10% off for veterans, first responders, college students, and senior citizens.

What not to do in an escape room?

Here’s what NOT to do in an escape room: don’t use force or break things, don’t hog the puzzles, and please, please don’t reveal spoilers to future players. Remember, sharing is caring, except when it comes to spoilers!

How do you escape the room in 60 seconds?

Escaping a room in 60 seconds would be like winning the lottery – nearly impossible! But if you’re in a hurry, focus on effective communication, quick decision-making, and trust your gut instincts.

What questions to ask in an escape room?

In an escape room, asking your teammates questions like “What do you think this clue means?” or “Have we seen anything that looks like it fits here?” can help keep the ball rolling. And don’t hesitate to ask the game master for hints if you’re really stuck!

How do you mentally prepare for an escape room?

To mentally prepare for an escape room, visualize yourself solving puzzles and working as a team. Embrace the excitement and remember that it’s all about having a blast, so leave any stress or worries at the door.

How many levels are in escape room?

There isn’t a fixed number of levels in escape rooms, as each room is a unique experience. Some escape rooms offer multiple rooms with varying themes and difficulties, so you can keep coming back for more brain-teasing fun. Kind of like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get! 

Family and friends in an escape room
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