There is a certain level of love out there for race rooms, a subset of escape rooms. These are two identical rooms that allow for separate teams to go in and compete to be the first team out. Of course, we too love this idea. It fuels an inherent competitive gene most of us have that pulses when we see a sporting event, play games, or compete in virtually anything. But as a player, this idea is even more thrilling. It also happens to be a great way to stick it to that Dave, Jake, or Tonya in your friend’s group. Let’s go over some insider tips so you’ll have nothing but love for race rooms.
Making Our Hearts Race
When we design and host a race room, we imagine an atmosphere where people will compete in a friendly manner (okay, maybe a little cutthroat). We created a room called “The Showdown” which uses one of my favorite themes: westerns. As an added interesting effect we put jail bars in the center of the room so teams could see and hear each other during the game to heighten the manic race. It’s a thrilling race room and we are always excited to get folks in there. We have had this room in operation for about 2 and a half years. Along the way, I have learned some valuable tidbits about race room experiences.
Be on Top of Your Host
Remember, your host is monitoring both sides of the room at all times–two rooms, one person. Add in the competitive shenanigans of players and these games can become chaotic gladiator fights very quickly. Luckily, Escape Games Live has some of the best hosts in the game. (I may be biased as all get out but that also happens to be true.) But if you don’t happen to be playing with us (of course, that would never happen. Right?), then you’ll want to make sure your host has given each team clear cut rules and boundaries to keep things fun.
Don’t Get $ Involved
It can be easy to forget that you are there to have fun. And maybe you think putting something on the line will increase the fun. And sometimes that’s true. There have been plenty of fun wagers, like drinks afterward or even dinner. One family wagered clean-up and hosting duties for the holidays, which was great. You know what doesn’t end well? Money bets. You know why? One team is sure to leave mad which doesn’t make for a good experience you. And that fun we spoke of earlier… that becomes the biggest loser.
Overall, race rooms are something fun and different for family outings, team fun, or a night out with friends.