Playing an escape room together is a thrilling opportunity to make memories with family members, hang out with friends, or bond with co-workers. These engaging adventures challenge teams with unique riddles, puzzles, and clues.
While all escape rooms present groups with problems to solve, there are also different types of escape rooms. Below we’ll explain the types and features of escape rooms so you can find the perfect fit for your group!
Different Types Of Escape Rooms
In-Person
An in-person escape room is an immersive physical space where teams manually maneuver objects as they discover clues and puzzle pieces. These are, of course, the most common kind of escape rooms.
Virtual Escape Rooms
Unlike regular escape rooms, virtual versions can be played without ever leaving home! Similar to a video game, virtual escape rooms can be physical rooms played remotely, digital adventures, or point-and-click games!
Game Sequence Variations
Linear Games
Linear escape room games have challenges that must be solved in order. Teams focus on one puzzle at a time and the storyline progresses for every solved clue. Linear puzzles work best with smaller groups and are an ideal way for teammates to get to know each other!
Linear games:
- are well-organized
- feature puzzles that are solved one at a time
- perfect for beginners or small groups
Non-Linear Games
Non-linear escape rooms are more complex than their linear counterparts. Expect to work on multiple puzzles simultaneously to escape in time. These games often include interconnected clues that lead players to a massive puzzle.
Non-linear escape rooms are ideal for larger groups like corporate teams because teammates can split into smaller teams to focus on separate challenges!
Non-Linear games:
- have a higher volume of puzzles
- require more abstract thinking skills
- are well-suited for large groups
Mixed Linear/Non-Linear Games
This hybrid format often begins with various puzzle tracks that have teams split into smaller groups. Mixed games are often story-driven, and players focus on the storyline to guide their steps toward escape.
Mixed Linear/Non-Linear Games:
- are story-driven so teams can be part of the narrative
- utilizes various problem-solving skills
- suitable for any group size
4 Common Escape Room Puzzles
1. Written – Written puzzles often include numbers and text. No, you won’t need a math or English degree, but expect to think outside the box!
2. Physical – Physical puzzles usually involve moving objects, untangling barriers, untying knots, or solving a picture puzzle. Physical puzzles are more obvious and tend to stick out from the rest of the space.
3. Sensory – Light, sound, and smell are often overlooked but can play a big part in escaping! What might seem like standard parts of the environment may be crucial clues necessary for escape. Keep an eye out for songs, blinking lights, repetitive sounds, and distinct smells. These subtle hints might be pointing you toward escape!
4. Hidden Items and Clues – These scavenger-style puzzles can involve finding hidden objects, puzzle pieces, or clues within the room. From a hidden key to a piece of paper, important objects are likely hiding somewhere in the room!
Final Thoughts
The brain-teasing puzzles of escape rooms get your teammates thinking strategically and collaboratively! Want to be even more prepared for your next escape room adventure? Check out Everything You Need to Know About Escape Rooms!
