GuReview - Tomb of Anubis
by Gureviewer: rachelklepadlo
Overview
Game Played On: Friday, 20th September 2019
Recommended Team Size: 4-6 Players
Kid Friendly: Yes
Game Duration: 60 Min.
Booking Method: Online
Start Time: On Time
Who is this for: Families , Enthusiasts , Beginners , Searchers , Thrill Seekers
Live Actor: No
Public Transportation: N/A
Parking: Venue Free Parking
Parking lot directly across the street
Overview Notes:
13th Gate has mastered the ability of making an Escape Room that is challenging for seasoned players, without being unapproachable by beginners. While I wouldn't recommend this room as a first-time player, the game elements are very approachable within this experience.
The Venue
Venue / Lobby Info:
Things are not always as they appear. From the outside, 13th Gate looks like a plain warehouse in the middle of nowhere. Oh.. But it's so, so much more. Upon entering the lobby, there is a reception desk along the left side for check in, with several tables and games lined up on the right side. There's plenty of room for multiple groups to wait at the same time.
Public Restrooms: Yes
Refreshments: Yes
Notes for People with Disabilities:
From 13th Gate's website, "It really depends... some health conditions may pose considerable safety risks. If you have a pace-maker, severe heart conditions, epilepsy, claustrophobia, are pregnant, or have a physical disability which makes standing, crawling, or climbing difficult we may politely ask you to not participate".
The Game
Game Introduction: Being led from the hallway into the game was the biggest 'shock' I've ever experienced. The set design is unreal, immediately transporting you into a tomb. An introductory tape is played, letting us know that we ended up in an ancient trap of sorts...
Operator Intro: Exciting - takes you into the story
Theme: Adventure
Narrative: Escape a Specific Unpleasant Place
Main room first glance: Wow!
Just... Wow. This is the closest I've ever been to experiencing an actual tomb. From the sand on the floor to the wet tomb smell.. It's unreal and unlike anything I've ever experienced before. A few moments into the game, the space changes in an impressive way.
Flow: Not that good. A bit confusing
It was difficult to discern the flow of this room at times. During certain moments, we had to use a hint to figure out what to do next. There is a notebook guiding your journey, which means one player is spending most of their time with their nose in a book.
Puzzles: Some of them were great (matched promised level)
Most of the puzzles remained on theme and were an equal amount of fun and frustrating. Some had a physical element that tactile-seeking players will truly enjoy.
Game Strengths:
Immense, immersive playing field - multiple puzzle paths to follow - varied range of puzzle types and difficulty - beautiful set pieces and props
Game Weaknesses:
QR code hint system breaks the immersion - unclear flow at times - heavy reliance on the journal
Hints & Clues, Debrief
Method: Other
Quality: OK
Closure & Debrief: Excellent (Catharsis)
Final Thoughts:
Tomb of Anubis was our team's first 'fail' in several months - with good reason. There is just SO MUCH to do in this room that it's hard to focus on the puzzles when there's an amazing set to explore. Our team of 4 had another 15-20 minutes worth of puzzles to complete.
Did You Escape: No
Venue:
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