"LUCKY HEIST" FROM LOCK AND MIRRORS WHAT IS THIS? "Lucky Heist" is a play-at-home, online puzzle game with a tad of print-and-play element, though printing can be easily avoided. It is published by Lock And Mirrors, a company based in the United States. The game interface runs on web browser like Chrome, and can be played on a desktop or a mobile device. Complementary clue file requires a PDF file reader. "LUCKY HEIST" CAN BE PURCHASED HERE. From company: ⏲️ N/A ▪ 💪 N/A ▪ 🔢 N/A PREMISE You have found a pot of gold! Unfortunately, the Leprechaun that has hidden it has built an elaborate contraption to protect it! Can you solve all the tricky contraptions to open secret compartments and ultimately open the final vault door and get his gold? Lucky for you, he has left behind some of his possessions that may help you to unravel the many puzzles and riddles he has used to lock away the gold. (Credits: Lock And Mirrors) THE REVIEW Ready to strike it rich? | Credits: Lock And Mirrors SHORT ON TIME? ⌚ ▪ You're on the go, or just don't feel like reading? Jump to THE VERDICT for a quick assessment! THEMING & PRODUCTION ▪ Originally released around early April, this literally luckily titled game offers puzzles surrounding a theme of good luck, great fortune, and a leprechaun. Most probably first conceived as a Saint Patrick's Day holiday special, "Lucky Heist" certainly feels seasonal, though undoubtedly can be enjoyed throughout the year. While the goal of hunting treasures isn't the most unique, (just ask any other pirate booty escape games out there), the unifying puzzle focus on luck does offer something less commonplace, and also functions as helpful pattern in solving the brainteasers. I've overall come to appreciate the concept. ▪ Otherwise, there isn't much of a story other than "solve my various intricate puzzles and win big money!" But you don't always need an elaborate narrative to have fun. (Corny spoiler alert: the memories you make with you team is the real treasure after all...) (Omg, shut up, Mattster.) ▪ The presentation, however, leans a bit on the bare side, though this is admittedly a product of preconceived bias. Having already reviewed the "Alone Together" saga, and knowing "Lucky Heist" also comes from the same creator(s), I expected the graphics to be similarly impressive. And while "Lucky" is entirely adequate in its own right, it justifiably pales against its older siblings. I would love to see a future facelift with brighter colors, more quirky animations, and more lively additions in general. Leprechauns use puzzle-powered security system, apparently | Credits: Lock And Mirrors GAME PLAY & PUZZLES ▪ The game interface cycles through a handful of pages of interrelated puzzles, with each representing a different surface of the treasure vault that one must unlock in order to get to the luxurious center--where the gold coins await! It's a simple, no-BS setup that has both pros and cons. On the one hand, this is the cleanest route to go for its target players with little puzzling background, to help them decipher challenges without excessive amount of distraction. On the other, for those who eat puzzles for breakfast, this appears too basic and is unlikely to make a memorable impact. ▪ The puzzles themselves rely on scrambling critical information all over, requiring the players to locate, match, and apply pertaining clues to appropriately corresponding riddles. For the most part, (with a few exceptions maybe), what you need to complete a puzzle in the web browser is located on the PDF file, so the first step essentially becomes a matching game between the two. (Your eyes will be darting left and right and up and down!) The relevant cues are fairly obvious and should easily instill a sense of satisfaction and confidence in players of all level. ▪ Once appropriate clues are sorted out, what remains are classic escape room tropes, with the likes of "directional lock", pattern recognition and input, jigsaw puzzles, and interpreting encrypted secret messages. It's a nice collection for Beginners 101 course, and again, most fitting for younger audience. Experts will speed right through like Flash. ▪ I've finished, well, almost finished, the entire game as a solo effort under 25 minutes, sans one puzzle that stumped me silly. My friend walking by was able to nonchalantly beat it under matters of seconds, nonetheless. This strange turn of events actually made me like this game better, since something that offers zero challenge often bores me, and "Lucky Heist" still has a trick or two up its sleeves for different mindsets, brain types, and more experienced gamers beyond its intended target. ▪ The print-and-play PDF contents need not to be printed. Certain puzzle pieces will make the game a more tangible and hands-on experience, and probably a more engaging time and easier solving journey for the kiddos. For the more mentally capable, replicating identical clues on scratch papers will do just fine. So, if you want, go green and save some trees. OTHER FACTORS ▪ I initially couldn't understand why the contents is split between the web and a PDF, because everything can certainly be merged into one seamless, purely online experience. The separation of information achieves 2 goals, as it turns out: 1) it elevates the difficulty of puzzles slightly, and 2) it facilitates game sharing. That is, each purchased game code can only be used once on one device, and having a small group congregate around that one device seems impractical. Distributing each member their own PDF clue sets (somewhat) bypasses this inconvenience. ▪ At a $5 price tag, it makes for both a great pre-planned party event or a last-minute purchase if you need a family game night attraction but just don't have one. For returning customer familiar with the Enchambered's "Alone Together 2", however, be aware that even though both games sell for the same dollar amount, "Lucky Heist" will be significantly simpler and shorter, a reflection of its catering for a younger audience. THE VERDICT ENJOYMENT: 🙂 "Lucky Heist", in a nutshell, is a luck-themed escape game designed for a family of all ages to enjoy. While the not-often-encountered theming works well enough, presentation falls a tad short. Both the game play and puzzles clearly gravitate towards the more novice population, rendering this an affordable and wholesome option for the non-enthusiast public for a casual playthrough. After all, $5 for a chance to heist for gold at the end of the rainbo... errr... inside a sturdy prize vault? It's a bargain to consider. DIFFICULTY: 2/10 The above subjective rating is based on a team of 1 (mostly). It may differ from the company's official rating. Let's put this 2/10 into perspective, however: for a game that aims for a demographic of mostly tweens and teens, the puzzles aren't going to be terribly challenging for adult players--let alone for this puzzle fanatic/enthusiast! IS THIS FOR ME? If you're looking for a game for the younger crowd, or for beginner-level players with little to no prior experience, or a light but fun option for family game night, or something that will not break the bank, "Lucky Heist" may be for you. Fans who want to support the same folks who brought you the "Alone Together" series may also want to check this out for completist's sake. For other hardcore escape game lovers seeking a real challenge, this is probably not it. "LUCKY HEIST" CAN BE PURCHASED HERE. Signing off, ESCAPE MATTSTER Instagram @EscapeMattster ▪ Facebook.com/EscapeMattster Full disclosure: complimentary game access was generously provided for review or testing purposes. All media are sourced from and credited to rightful owners. No copyright infringement intended. In certain cases, media materials are made available under fair use doctrine of copyright law. SAMLucky.

JUMP TO: THE INFO | THE GALLERY | THE GUIDE | THE REVIEW THE INFO THE CINDERELLA MURDERS | THE FAIRY TALE FILES BY SOCIETY OF CURIOSITIES 🗺️ Based In United States ⏲️ 45-90 Minutes ▪ 💪 Medium Difficulty ▪ 🔢 N/A 📚 A grisly double-murder shocks Fairy Tale Land! Lady Tremaine and one of her two daughters are found stabbed at the manor. The prime suspect is the mistreated stepdaughter Cinderella--she had motive and opportunity. Could it be that simple? THE GALLERY The Cinderella Murders | The Fairy Tale Files By Society Of Curiosities THE (QUICK) GUIDE THIS, IN A NUTSHELL, IS... ▪ Classified As: Play At Home » Puzzle Game In A Box (Package) / By-Mail Puzzle Hybrid ▪ A fairy tale-themed escape puzzle narrative adventure that will have you rethink the classic story time characters as you know them. This ain't your regular Disney princess happily-ever-after in the making--it's every (wo)man for themselves to create the perfect ending, and murder is certainly NOT off the table. Game play and contents will spread evenly between on-hand, paper-based clues and online portal; players will enjoy roughly 1 to 2 hours of novice-to-medium-level, family-friendly puzzling fun. YOU'LL ENJOY THIS, IF... ▪ If you're a youngster who loves prince/princess tales, and are ready for your first escape game(s) featuring this exact theme. ▪ If you're an adult that enjoys fairy tales like "Cinderella", but think, "Hmmm, what would a darker, modernized version be like?" ▪ If you love games that have you embark on an magical journey in an enchanted land, but also solve a grim murder on the side. ▪ If you appreciate riddles, language play, and other brainteasers that are less traditional escape room-ish and more kids-friendly. ▪ If you want to share your love for Society Of Curiosities with friends who like a more straightforward (and less ARG-style) play. ▪ If you enjoy these similar/related options: The Bewitched Circus, Clue Kingdom, Seven Dwarfs, and Hot Chocolate Incident. OVERALL VERDICT: 😃 ▪ Advice: Based on everything discussed below in the review, with my team of 1, the difficulty subjectively feels like a 6/10, (which may differ from the company's official rating). As such, I recommend a team of 1 to 2. I do honestly think this game may be disproportionately more difficult for me than most, since I am rubbish at these puzzle types. You may find it much easier. 📖 CONTINUE READING THE REVIEW BELOW! 🛒 WHEN YOU'RE READY... TO BUY, CLICK HERE! THE (FULL) REVIEW GLASS SLIPPER MURDERS! | The Fairy Tale Files By Society Of Curiosities INTRODUCTION & THEME ▪ Inspired by classic fairy tales told for ages, now reimagined with a moderately darker twists, "The Fairy Tale Files" puzzle series is the latest project brought to life from the creative masters behind Society Of Curiosities. First of four in the series to report trouble--troubles, plural, in fact--in Fairy Tale land, "The Cinderella Murders" is the creators' first stab in the murder mystery category. In fact, it's a fatal stab with the sharply pointed, glassy high heel of Cinderella's slipper, ending in a double homicide--now the question is, who did the deed? (Society Of Curiosities doesn't mess around. Historically, they haven't incorporated any malicious killing in their previous narratives, but when they do, bam! A two-for-one special, madam.) ▪ "Fairy Tale Files" is a departure from Society's usual route and an artistic endeavor in different creative direction. While cases from the Society Of Curiosities are of alternate-reality or augmented-reality games style, specifically aiming to blur the lines between reality with fabricated strange happenings, "Fairy" pledges full devotion to absolute fantasy, in which prescription spells help heal ailments, and vermin are your besties for life. The juxtaposition of something as heavy and permanent as murder is an interesting distortion in a seemingly sugary utopia, and it will be intriguing to see how the rest of the collection plays out. ▪ Despite the above, the overall adventure format is familiar enough for returning fans to just pick up and go, while easy enough for new players to learn swiftly. What's essentially the same is you will receive a package of puzzle goodies, some you can examine right away, others concealed and to be unpacked later. The main narrative will similarly be told through the eyes of your correspondent, Maximillian Lepoof from the Magical Mishaps Agency, whom you'll chat with via a web messaging system. This game is strictly online through pixie dust magic, so no SMS involved--such technology does not exist in Fairy Tale Land! IMPRESSIONS ▪ Geared towards a more affordable price point, "Fairy Tales" has a reasonable price tag of around $20 USD, and will feature mostly paper-based materials. While I most certainly appreciate the various trinkets from my previous Society Of Curiosities titles, the thinner and lighter materials are easier to ship, carry around, and store, and they still look fantastic in its own right. My personal favorites include the official newspaper from Prince Charming's homeland, and the colorful and sparkling evidence collection. Thoughtful production value remains a signature M.O. for the company, no matter what the cost tier may be. ▪ The other half of the game, the online messaging portal, is equally visually pleasing. A watercolor painting of what looks be a fairy tale book interface, placed in front of the contrasting bloody red background, coupled with a mesmerizing soundtrack, this sets the stage--and the mood--just right for some make-believe sleuthing. From a technical standpoint, this communication and hint system runs without any bug, and makes the overall gaming experiencing as smooth as Libelle Treville's (stepsister's) supple skin. (Oh no, was that creepy? If so, replace comparison with butter. As smooth as butter.) ▪ What perhaps will go on to become the most defining aesthetics for this series is the stunning artwork. The specifically commissioned and tailor-made illustrations give an unquestionable unique look for this new project, and what's even more satisfying is, the artist is able to capture the darker and more mature tone of the storyline without completely sacrificing customary vibe of classic children bedtime story. Think of it like Detective Pikachu going live action. It's the same character basis, but just more authentic. More edgy. And a little more slaying royalty. ▪ And the font! Both online and offline, font choice is dead-on (deader than Lady Tremaine) immaculate. Love. It. ▪ One noticeable difference is that there is a lot more illustrations of sceneries employed in this puzzle series when compared to the main line from Society Of Curiosities. More specifically, there is relatively less usage of "real-life" prop such as maps, articles, and charts, though they still can be found in some capacity, just to a lesser extent. Subbing for the reality-blurring approach to immersion is an invite for the players to metaphorically step inside a fairy tale book. You now journey through the plot through a series of text (with Max) and many, many pages of elucidating artwork--so in this sense, it's really like flipping through storybook! A literal fairy tale book messaging portal | The Fairy Tale Files By Society Of Curiosities PUZZLES ▪ The overall puzzle contents can be divided into two main aspects: an exploration side in which you travel all over Fairy Tale Land to investigate, to do interviews, and to gather intel and more evidence; and a case-solving side, in which you have to ultimately decide who's the killer out of four possible suspects. A good ol' whodunit as your finale task. Choose wisely! ▪ Majority of your time will be spent directing your detective partner Max on where to go, who to speak with, and what to do with certain inventory items and information. While on the surface, it first appears like a choose-your-adventure sort of journey, and there is indeed some freedom in choosing your own task-to-do order, the game is still dominantly linear. You will be prodded along a predetermined path to encounter story and puzzle segments as they are arranged to play out. Once you hit a puzzle step, you MUST solve it before moving on. For the younger or beginners crowd, there is solid structure and great guidance for easy gaming. For the more experienced, however, this feels a bit rigid and I prefer events to unfold more organically. ▪ Designed to be an experience playable by beginners, families, and even younger kids, the puzzle selection deviates from traditional escape games and leans towards more intuitive challenges. Riddles are plentiful and fit into the storybook universe well; also along the same veins are word plays involving sounds and idioms. For returning customers familiar with previous Society games, there are also reading and knowledge-applying task and a bit of code deciphering. Comprehensively speaking, these brainteasers are meant to be solvable with minimal previous experience, and may actually be paradoxically more challenging for experts who are more accustomed to overused tropes. The takeaway: expect something different. ▪ Pages are flowing red, but not from the victim's blood, but with red herrings! What's perhaps the trickiest and most ingenious part of the storytelling, every single one of the four suspects all seem equally likely to be your guy/gal, and it truly is a mystery until the very end. After all... There's a killer among us, and everyone's a little sus. Now this is the type of red herring I like! ▪ Be sure to take notes dutifully. Little details are keys to solving the double murder, and the critical tidbits will slip by easily if you don't pay close attention. Organize your notes neatly, and use a systematic process of elimination to deduce down to only one possible culprit. Don't overthink. Though I've epically failed to apprehend the right gal/guy by picking literally everyone else who's innocent, (gosh, I was terrible!), I both appreciated the thought process and enjoyed the final reveal with great satisfaction. OTHER CONSIDERATIONS ▪ For a game aimed to expand into family demographics, this game is jam-packed with more adult humors (not the dirty kind) that only the more devious minds will get. There are portions that reek Housewives drama, temporarily transporting me from a fairy tale to the E! network. Sweet, sweet Cinderella's got a social ladder-climbing, not-that-innocent conniving-ish side, and what's not to love? It's plausible to compare "The Cinderella's Murders" to a Disney/Pixar animation--certainly appropriate for the young ones in the family, but dig a little deeper, there are layers reserved for the grown-ups to savor. OVERALL VERDICT: 😃 ▪ "The Cinderella Murders" kicks off "The Fairy Tale Files" nicely with a well-paced fantasy adventure, a cunningly-written murder mystery, a smirk-inducing satire all in one light but compelling envelope. Not exactly a puzzle-centric contender, though dripping with just the right amount of deceit, bloodthirst, and humor (love me some hearty amount of humor), this fantastic looking at-home story/game combo is wholesome enough for the kids to play, but also just naughty enough to thrill the kids at heart. Signing off, ESCAPE MATTSTER Instagram @EscapeMattster ▪ Facebook.com/EscapeMattster All media are sourced from and credited to rightful owners. No copyright infringement intended. In certain cases, media materials are made available under fair use doctrine of copyright law. FTFCinderella.

JUMP TO: THE INFO | THE GALLERY | THE GUIDE | THE REVIEW THE INFO TACO TWOSDAY | TRAPPED PUZZLE ROOMS (TRAPPED TAKEOUT) 🗺️ Based In United States ⏲️ 2-3 Hours ▪ 💪 N/A ▪ 🔢 2 Teams 📚 The world FBI (Flour Bureau of Investigation) and CIA (Corn Intelligence Agency) must join forces to stop the Guaca-mole! Designed for two teams to tackle together or remotely with 2-3 hours of teamwork! (Taco TWOsday is a series of communication puzzles, designed for two people or teams to play. This (complete, full) product includes both the CIA and the FBI packets.) THE GALLERY Taco TWOsday | Trapped Puzzle Rooms Trapped Takeout THE (QUICK) GUIDE THIS, IN A NUTSHELL, IS... ▪ Classified As: Play At Home » Puzzle Game In A Box (Package) ▪ A taco-themed game night for two (teams) to savor. Quality time to bond, with none of the calories! With one team as the FBI (Flour Bureau of Investigation), and the other as the CIA (Corn Intelligence Agency), together they will prevent furry rodent-like villain the Guaca-Mole from stealing all of the world's supply of avocado chip dip. Through a series of communication cooperative puzzles spanning across various topics and formats (from word plays, to emojis, to movie reference), this lighthearted, humorous, and clever takeout order provides several hours of *chef's kiss* perfectly hearty entertainment. YOU'LL ENJOY THIS, IF... ▪ If you like food with your games. Like, as in food themed, but who's to say you can't eat actual tacos while playing this? ▪ If you enjoyed the previous "Retro Rad Pizza Adventure". Similar theme, similar story, improved puzzles, all-around winner! ▪ If you like silly word plays, silly jokes, silly pop culture or movie references. A whole lot of silliness and tons of fun here. ▪ If co-op puzzle is your thing. Seriously though, if you can't communicate effectively... you'll gonna have a bad time. ▪ If you just crave some smart and well-designed puzzles, if nothing else. Every challenge is solid, satisfying, and hits the spot. ▪ If you enjoy these similar/related options: Alone Together series, Unboxing The Mind, Bluefish Games products. OVERALL VERDICT: 😍 ▪ Advice: Based on everything discussed below, with my 2 teams of 1 each, the difficulty subjectively feels like a 5/10, (which may differ from the company's official rating). As such, I recommend 2 teams of 1 to 2 each. Personally, I feel the game is best experienced if all players are situated physically close by, though remote play remains a viable option. ▪ Tip: A few puzzles may not have the clearest directions to start. The first hint or two will usually clarify any confusion. 📖 CONTINUE READING THE REVIEW BELOW! 🛒 WHEN YOU'RE READY... TO BUY, CLICK HERE! THE (FULL) REVIEW Taco TWOsday | Trapped Puzzle Rooms Trapped Takeout INTRODUCTION & THEME ▪ "Taco TWOSday" is incredibly aptly named: it's the company's second puzzle product in their food-themed "takeout" line, and it's designed for play between two teams. This spiritual sequel featuring the Mexican cuisine staple retains an overflowing amount of food-related cuteness, and the targeted audience of two (teams) makes it a perfect date night activity. ▪ Game play involves a brief textual introduction, either from on-hand materials or on the accompanying game website, then players proceed to solve various challenges with props included in the package. Once solution is obtained, it can be verified via said website, and if correct, the game moves on to the next stage. Hints and nudges are also available on site. ▪ Like "Pizza Adventure", the story involves a supervillain's evil plan to steal all of the world's supply of one certain food--this time, the popular avocado-based deliciousness known as the guac--and it's up to you to thwart their agenda. While the basic narrative skeleton remains the same, this round, the execution is much more direct, text-based, and puzzle-driven, ridding the more media-dense video approach from the last game. The lighter technique yields strangely effective result; the overall experience is easier to understand and more time-efficient. This is one taco meal that won't leave you feeling bloated! ▪ Unlike "Pizza", however, "Taco TWOsday" is a communication cooperative game, so you can't dine solo. One team becomes the FBI (Flour Bureau of Investigation), the other, the CIA (Corn Intelligence Agency), each given their own exclusive intel files. The two sides then must communicate and piece together their halves of the clues to triumph. I am equally thrilled about the always-challenging co-op play and the geek-tastic, funny word choice. (No, I lied. I may be more excited about the verbal gags.) ▪ The villain, the Guaca-Mole, a subterranean furry critter with a penchant for green creamy dip? Adorable AND another clever word play! (And the word plays certainly won't end here! For those into punny humor, many good times await.) IMPRESSIONS ▪ Components continue to be paper-based, and while not super fancy, I appreciate a deliberate and successful attempt to produce an impressive product with just paper contents. For instance, for the "Operation: Lettuce" portion, materials are printed on light green cardboards, while the analogous mission named after cheese are printed on yellow papers. The thoughtful color coordination stays consistent throughout, an appreciated feature that keeps the fun food theme explicitly active and immersive. ▪ Another huge advantage (some may even say improvement) compared to the last title is the welcoming lack of preparation needed. These tacos are ready to eat, right out of the package, y'all. There is absolutely no unpacking, unrolling of paper, or any sort of heavy crafting involved. Everything comes pre-assembled; maximal convenience, minimal hassles. ▪ Though the storyline is largely a fantasy (until one day an army of moles start stealing our avocados, that is), the investigation aspect is surprisingly logical and procedural, with main objectives realistically starting with a secret contact, moving onto locating the suspect, and finally raiding their secret compound. These coherent puzzle steps make good sense, therefore competently adhering together a journey much more engaging and immersive than I've initially expected. ▪ Overall, production value is humble but decent, though this really is beside the point since a substantial bulk of your enjoyment derives directly from the truthfully well-designed and well-produced puzzles. It's back to the basics with no BS: the puzzles speak for themselves, and they shouting loud and clear that they are the stars of the show. Are you a CIA kinda folk, or will you join the FBI? | Trapped Puzzle Rooms Trapped Takeout PUZZLES ▪ One word: QUALITY! You can skip this entire section now. (Just kidding. Don't. I need my readership.) There is not one single weak puzzle introduced in this taco game night. And even more satisfyingly, I don't necessarily detect any classic or conventional puzzle types or ideas being blatantly recycled, which was one of the weaker aspects of the previous title. All in all, my partner and I both agree, this is one game you'll walk away feeling mentally aroused, exercised, and accomplished--and refreshingly so. ▪ Though already mentioned, it's worthy to note once more: WORD PLAYS! Trapped Puzzle Rooms has a tendency to be strike up humor with this literacy technique, and it's no exception here. In certain cases, the word play is so intense, that the witty answers can be simultaneously an in-joke and the puzzle for the next step. Say what?! Good times, good times. ▪ A brief sampling of tasks you'll face: spot the difference, paper strip jigsaw, and emoji deciphering. Abundant variety. ▪ Occasional Googl-ing (web search) is most likely required, or at least helpful, to complete the game. Experts of pop culture, movie reference, and international geography may ignore the previous statement. ▪ The estimated play time of 2 to 3 hours is dead-on accurate, assuming no cheating occurs. You'll most likely spend a good chunk of the time communicating. (Once you've established the basic setup, however, the "actual" puzzle solving process can be relatively speedy.) Designated break time will be suggested to prevent brain burnout. However, this game is so compellingly entertaining, you'll gladly power through. (This is one rare instance of food binging Escape Mattster will gleefully support.) ▪ Due to the communication puzzle nature, difficulty can drastically vary among players. The ability to effectively communicate is most important for all, novice, expert, or otherwise. Keep in mind: corresponding clues from each side may vary (in format) more than you think! So be as clear and as specific as you can when describing what you see to your crime-fighting partner(s). ▪ Alas, certain puzzles lack clear instructions to start, marking this one of the very few, if not the only, weaknesses found. OTHER CONSIDERATIONS ▪ If you've purchased the last takeout game, the decision to buy this follow-up product will be easy to make. The first takeout adventure is a pizza pie with mixed ingredients--some parts great, some parts less desirable. The new taco quest, however, maintains everything that works well from the first game, subtracts others that don't, and presents a final, refined dish of delicacy with all the strengths and none of the weaknesses. The game will feel familiar... but better. Every bite is a delectable delight. ▪ At $36 (plus shipping), the price tag skews towards the slightly higher end, though justifiable due to assembling-associated labor costs. You can reduce out-of-pocket spending by splitting across teammates. Additionally, by keeping all game materials pristine--unmarked or unwritten on--the entire game can be reassembled, thus retaining replay value for your family and friends. OVERALL VERDICT: 😍 ▪ The Trapped Takeout business is booming! Their first culinary creation is respectable though not without flaws, but the chefs in the kitchen have since honed their knives and improved their skills, and their sophomore effort is a Michelin-starred experience. No matter what day of the week, "Taco TWOsday" is the perfect yummy feast for any puzzle lover, (well-)seasoned or otherwise. Signing off, ESCAPE MATTSTER Instagram @EscapeMattster ▪ Facebook.com/EscapeMattster Full disclosure: complimentary game access was generously provided for review or testing purposes. All media are sourced from and credited to rightful owners. No copyright infringement intended. In certain cases, media materials are made available under fair use doctrine of copyright law. TPRTaco.

​Mail & On-Hand Products TANGIBLE ITEMS REQUIRED This last category of play-at-home games is one that you may already be familiar with... Ever heard of board games? These classic boxed toys paved way to the myriad of adventure, puzzle, and escape game like products widely available today. No matter what format these games take, they all have one thing in common: you MUST possess certain key props on hand in the physical "real world"; otherwise, you CANNOT proceed. Examples include: ESCAPE ROOM IN A BOX: These are, much like the name suggests, a collection of escape room like puzzles, neatly packaged into a retail cardboard container, ready for entertainment. These are quick and simple, just "pick up and go", no preparations needed. SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE: Similar to magazine subscriptions or meal prep delivery boxes, a fresh new batch of puzzling fun will be mailed right to your door at a regular interval. It's food for your brain! Most companies ship either by monthly or quarterly basis. ​ PRINT AND PLAY: Unlike the previous two categories, there's absolutely no traveling or waiting required with "Print And Play". Everything you need is provided in a digital format; just print and assemble! Grab a pair of scissors, some glue and tape, it's craft time. This market is highly variable and continues to evolve. Many products now incorporate the internet for game play, hints system, and/or solution verification. So don't be surprised to see some games spilling over to the " Online Puzzles " family! ​ ⇦ Back to Stay At Home: Overview ► By-Mail & On-Hand Products Reviews ◄ Escape Mattster May 10, 2021 5 min Review: Lucky Heist | Lock And Mirrors 0 Escape Mattster Apr 16, 2021 7 min Review: The Cinderella Murders | The Fairy Tale Files By Society Of Curiosities 0 Escape Mattster Apr 11, 2021 6 min Review: Taco TWOsday | Trapped Puzzle Rooms Trapped Takeout 0 Escape Mattster Mar 25, 2021 7 min Review: Escape From The Maze Of The Minotaur | Solve Our Shirts By CU Adventures 0 Escape Mattster Mar 20, 2021 9 min Review: UNMEMORY | Plug In Digital 0 Escape Mattster Mar 14, 2021 8 min Review: Retro Rad Pizza Adventure | Trapped Puzzle Rooms Trapped Takeout 0 Escape Mattster Feb 22, 2021 5 min Review: (Halloween) Survival Escape Training | clueQuest (Print + Cut + Escape) 0 Escape Mattster Feb 21, 2021 5 min Review: timeQuest | clueQuest (Print + Cut + Escape) 0 Escape Mattster Feb 20, 2021 5 min Review: Episode Three: Humanity 2.0 | clueQuest (Print + Cut + Escape) 0 Escape Mattster Feb 20, 2021 6 min Review: Episode Two: Alpha Brain System | clueQuest (Print + Cut + Escape) 0 Escape Mattster Feb 1, 2021 5 min Review: Trapped Escape Room Game Packs: The Bank Job | The Fantastic Factory & SolidRoots 0 Escape Mattster Jan 17, 2021 5 min Review: Chapter 1, Game 3: Distress Call From Outer Space | Scarlet Envelope 0 Escape Mattster Jan 16, 2021 5 min Review: Chapter 1, Game 2: Cabaret In Lapin Blanc | Scarlet Envelope 0 Escape Mattster Jan 15, 2021 5 min Review: Chapter 1, Game 1: Newspaper: Introduction To Mysteries | Scarlet Envelope 0 Escape Mattster Jan 7, 2021 4 min Review: Game 01: The Lost Knowledge | Enigma Fellowship 0 Escape Mattster Dec 17, 2020 5 min Review: Letters To Santa | Cryptic Enigmas 0 Escape Mattster Nov 26, 2020 4 min Review: The Mysterious Case | 60Out Escape Rooms 0 Escape Mattster Nov 22, 2020 6 min Review: Extraordinary Investigations: The Morgan File | Rod Gillies 0 Escape Mattster Nov 7, 2020 6 min Review: Floor 13 | CU Adventures In Time & Space 0 Escape Mattster Nov 7, 2020 5 min Review: Season 1, Episode 5: Lost Library | Mobile Escape: Escape Mail 0 Escape Mattster Oct 31, 2020 5 min Review: Season 1, Episode 4: On The Run | Mobile Escape: Escape Mail 0 Escape Mattster Oct 29, 2020 6 min Review: The Hincks Gazette (Vol 1, Issue 2 to 7) | Bluefish Games 0 Escape Mattster Oct 23, 2020 7 min Review: The Lost Temple | CU Adventures In Time & Space 0 Escape Mattster Oct 19, 2020 6 min Review: Episode One: Stolen IQ | clueQuest (Print + Cut + Escape) 0 Escape Mattster Oct 18, 2020 8 min Review: The Emerald Flame (Prototype Version) | PostCurious 0 Escape Mattster Oct 12, 2020 5 min Review: An Enola Holmes Adventure | Escape Hunt UK 2 Escape Mattster Oct 8, 2020 7 min Review: Season 1 (Disappearance Of Claire Makova), Episode 1 | The Detective Society 0 Escape Mattster Sep 28, 2020 4 min Review: A Strange Compass & An American Traitor's Code | Society Of Curiosities 0 Escape Mattster Sep 17, 2020 3 min Review: NHS, Thank You! | Cryptic Events Mobile Escape Rooms 0 Escape Mattster Sep 11, 2020 4 min Review: Season 1, Episode 3: Ancient Mysteries | Mobile Escape: Escape Mail 0 Escape Mattster Sep 11, 2020 5 min Review: Legacy: Hellas 2019 (Demo Version) | Argyx Games 0 Escape Mattster Sep 8, 2020 6 min Review: Season 1, Episode 2: Missing Person | Mobile Escape: Escape Mail 0 Escape Mattster Sep 7, 2020 5 min Review: The Missed Flight | Puzzle Post 0 Escape Mattster Aug 26, 2020 4 min Review: Level Up | Escape Hunt UK 1 Escape Mattster Aug 15, 2020 5 min Review: The Curious Elevator Of Mr. Hincks | Bluefish Games 0 Escape Mattster Aug 9, 2020 5 min Review: Season 1, Episode 1: Family Secrets | Mobile Escape: Escape Mail 0 Escape Mattster Jul 31, 2020 4 min Review: Houdini's Secret Room | Escape Room Geeks 0 Escape Mattster Jul 5, 2020 5 min Review: Madok's Lost Treasure | Society Of Curiosities 0

This is everything I've written and published thus far--there is quite a few to get through! Alternatively, you can sort these reviews with the main menu items above, via "(Play) At Home", "Sort Reviews", etc. ​ Escape Mattster May 10, 2021 Review: Lucky Heist | Lock And Mirrors 0 Escape Mattster Apr 16, 2021 Review: The Cinderella Murders | The Fairy Tale Files By Society Of Curiosities 0 Escape Mattster Apr 11, 2021 Review: Taco TWOsday | Trapped Puzzle Rooms Trapped Takeout 0 Escape Mattster Apr 4, 2021 Review: Tunnelling Through Time | Deadlocked Escape Rooms & Brunel Museum 0 Escape Mattster Mar 26, 2021 Review: 20000 Leagues Under The Sea (Remote) | Novel Escape 2 Escape Mattster Mar 25, 2021 Review: Escape From The Maze Of The Minotaur | Solve Our Shirts By CU Adventures 0 Escape Mattster Mar 23, 2021 Review: A Close Shave: The Movember Virtual Moscape Room | Deadlocked Escape Rooms & Movember 0 Escape Mattster Mar 23, 2021 Review: The Story Begins... | Pod Klobukom (Under The Hat) 0 Escape Mattster Mar 20, 2021 Review: UNMEMORY | Plug In Digital 0 Escape Mattster Mar 19, 2021 Review: Lost Treasure Of Sarang Rimau | Lockdown Escape Singapore 0 Escape Mattster Mar 14, 2021 Review: Retro Rad Pizza Adventure | Trapped Puzzle Rooms Trapped Takeout 0 Escape Mattster Mar 9, 2021 Review: Bad Altitude | Fast Familiar 0 Escape Mattster Feb 22, 2021 Review: (Halloween) Survival Escape Training | clueQuest (Print + Cut + Escape) 0 Escape Mattster Feb 21, 2021 Review: timeQuest | clueQuest (Print + Cut + Escape) 0 Escape Mattster Feb 20, 2021 Review: Episode Three: Humanity 2.0 | clueQuest (Print + Cut + Escape) 0 Escape Mattster Feb 20, 2021 Review: Episode Two: Alpha Brain System | clueQuest (Print + Cut + Escape) 0 Escape Mattster Feb 17, 2021 Review: Alone Together 3: Together At Heart | Enchambered: Sacramento Escape Room 0 Escape Mattster Feb 16, 2021 Review: Heistakes (Remote) | Escapologic Nottingham 0 Escape Mattster Feb 15, 2021 Review: Contraption (Or Con-trap-tion) (Remote) | Escapologic Nottingham 0 Escape Mattster Feb 7, 2021 Review: The Mystery Of Mayan Temple (Remote) | Mysterious Room (Pokoje Zagadek) 0 Escape Mattster Feb 7, 2021 Review: Banshee's Curse Live (Remote) | Escape Rooms Ennis (Online Escape Rooms Ireland) 0 Escape Mattster Feb 2, 2021 Review: Neverland: Heist On The High Seas (Remote) | Improbable Escapes: Wonderland Cafe 0 Escape Mattster Feb 1, 2021 Review: Unboxing The Mind Of A Cryptic Killer | Eleven Puzzles 0 Escape Mattster Feb 1, 2021 Review: Trapped Escape Room Game Packs: The Bank Job | The Fantastic Factory & SolidRoots 0 Escape Mattster Jan 23, 2021 Review: Interrogation Room (Remote) | District 3 Escape Rooms 0 Escape Mattster Jan 22, 2021 Review: The Vault Online (Remote) | Sherlocked Mystery Experiences 0 Escape Mattster Jan 18, 2021 Review: The Cure For The Common Zombie (Remote) | Improbable Escapes HQ 0 Escape Mattster Jan 17, 2021 Review: Chapter 1, Game 3: Distress Call From Outer Space | Scarlet Envelope 0 Escape Mattster Jan 16, 2021 Review: Chapter 1, Game 2: Cabaret In Lapin Blanc | Scarlet Envelope 0 Escape Mattster Jan 15, 2021 Review: Chapter 1, Game 1: Newspaper: Introduction To Mysteries | Scarlet Envelope 0 Escape Mattster Jan 10, 2021 Review: Headcase | Breaking Point Escape Rooms 0 Escape Mattster Jan 9, 2021 Review: The Hot Chocolate Incident (Remote) | Improbable Escapes HQ 0 Escape Mattster Jan 7, 2021 Review: Game 01: The Lost Knowledge | Enigma Fellowship 0 Escape Mattster Jan 6, 2021 Review: The Vanishing Act Remote (Remote) | Locurio Escape Rooms 0 Escape Mattster Dec 30, 2020 Review: The Return Of The Magician (Livestream) (Remote) | UNLOCKED: Escape Room 0 Escape Mattster Dec 30, 2020 Review: The Heist: Remote Avatar Experience (Remote) | Trapped Puzzle Rooms 0 Escape Mattster Dec 28, 2020 Review: Game 7: Publish Or Perish [Bobblehead Edition] | Paruzal Games 0 Escape Mattster Dec 26, 2020 Review: CSI: Christmas Scene Investigation | The Panic Room 0 Escape Mattster Dec 25, 2020 Review: B.R.U.C.E. Saves Christmas | Bewilder Box & Eltham Escape Rooms 0 Escape Mattster Dec 22, 2020 Review: A Witchy Christmas (Remote) | Daydream Adventures 0 Escape Mattster Dec 21, 2020 Review: Santa's Hard Disk Broke! | Can You Escape? Malta 0 Escape Mattster Dec 21, 2020 Review: Have You Got What It Takes To Be An Elf? | Escape Room LA 0 Escape Mattster Dec 20, 2020 Review: National Elf Service | Fast Familiar 0 Escape Mattster Dec 17, 2020 Review: Letters To Santa | Cryptic Enigmas 0 Escape Mattster Dec 17, 2020 Review: Airlock | @RussBuilds On Instagram 0 Escape Mattster Dec 13, 2020 Review: Carnival | Edaqa's Room 0 Escape Mattster Dec 6, 2020 Review: Escape The Mailbox | Access Escape 0 Escape Mattster Dec 6, 2020 Review: Super Squad | Trapped Puzzle Rooms Audio Escape Adventures 0 Escape Mattster Dec 5, 2020 Review: DTF: Drag Task Force And The Fabulous Flo Mingo (Remote) | Mystery Mansion Regina 0 Escape Mattster Nov 29, 2020 Review: The Haunted Theatre (360° Virtual Experience) | Escape Room LA 0

Host Led Experience THE WONDERFUL ODDBALLS This category of games does not exactly fit with the M.O. of an escape room per se, but let me clarify. ​ For me to consider an online remote experience as a " remote escape room ", I would, to the very least, require it to have a real life location that actually houses an escape room set. By this definition, options that utilize voice only broadcast (with no live video), or those containing puzzles solely presented as virtual online games, will be listed here instead. For instance, an audio led "escape room" would be included here. (This does NOT imply they're inferior--just different.) ​ Furthermore, if a particular game lacks a clear objective or process in the traditional escape room sense, it may fall under this section as well. A good example would be a immersion dominated experience with little to no mental challenges. ​ However, they all still have one commonality: a game host/master is still present and required for the game to run. ​ ⇦ Back to Stay At Home: Overview ► Other Host-Led Experience Reviews ◄ Escape Mattster Mar 19, 2021 8 min Review: Lost Treasure Of Sarang Rimau | Lockdown Escape Singapore 0 Escape Mattster Jan 22, 2021 6 min Review: The Vault Online (Remote) | Sherlocked Mystery Experiences 0 Escape Mattster Dec 28, 2020 5 min Review: Game 7: Publish Or Perish [Bobblehead Edition] | Paruzal Games 0 Escape Mattster Dec 21, 2020 4 min Review: Have You Got What It Takes To Be An Elf? | Escape Room LA 0 Escape Mattster Dec 17, 2020 4 min Review: Airlock | @RussBuilds On Instagram 0 Escape Mattster Dec 6, 2020 5 min Review: Super Squad | Trapped Puzzle Rooms Audio Escape Adventures 0 Escape Mattster Nov 29, 2020 5 min Review: The Haunted Theatre (360° Virtual Experience) | Escape Room LA 0 Escape Mattster Nov 29, 2020 5 min Review: Atlantis (360° Virtual Experience) | Escape Room LA 0 Escape Mattster Oct 30, 2020 6 min Review: Mission One: The Heist & Mission Two: Cyborg Island | Agent Venture & The Adventure Is Real 0 Escape Mattster Oct 13, 2020 6 min Review: Boonabo Farm | Mad Genius Escapes 0 Escape Mattster Sep 23, 2020 5 min Review: The Strange Secret Of Mr. Adrian Rook | Strange Bird Immersive 0 Escape Mattster Sep 22, 2020 5 min Review: Pirate's Plunder | Trapped Puzzle Rooms Audio Escape Adventures 0 Escape Mattster Sep 16, 2020 4 min Review: Endgame | @RussBuilds On Instagram 0 Escape Mattster Jul 23, 2020 5 min Review: Prehistoric Park | Trapped Puzzle Rooms Audio Escape Adventures 0 Escape Mattster Jul 12, 2020 6 min Review: Puzzle Wars | The Puzzle Room 0 Escape Mattster Jul 7, 2020 4 min Review: The Lost Pyramid | Escape Room LA 0 Escape Mattster Jul 6, 2020 5 min Review: Escape From Planet X | Escape Room LA 0 Escape Mattster Jul 3, 2020 5 min Review: The Curse Of The Dark Raven | Escape Room LA 0 Escape Mattster Jun 27, 2020 5 min Review: Cut-throat (Audio-Led) | Mystery Mansion Regina Escape Rooms 1 Escape Mattster Jun 14, 2020 5 min Review: The Truth About Edith | Mad Genius Escapes 0 Escape Mattster Jun 7, 2020 6 min Review: The Hardin House Mystery | Red Lantern Escape Rooms 0 Escape Mattster Jun 1, 2020 3 min Review: Project Avatar (Remote) | Legendary Quests 0