Escape Room Guide: What New Players Need to Know

Thinking about trying an escape room but not sure where to start? You’re in the right spot. This guide pulls together the most useful tips, common themes, price ranges and outfit ideas so you can walk in confident and ready to solve puzzles.

Easy Escape Rooms for First Timers

First‑time players usually look for rooms labeled “easy,” “family,” or “intro.” These games keep puzzles simple, give clear clues and often have a time cushion of 60‑70 minutes. Popular beginner themes include a detective office, a haunted bakery, or a sci‑fi lab gone wrong. They all share one thing: the story is easy to follow, so you spend more time figuring out the locks than trying to decode a complex plot.

When you walk in, the host will explain the rules and give a quick demo of the basic gadgets – think flashlights, magnetic keys or a simple keypad. Listen closely; a lot of the clues are handed to you during that briefing. Take notes on a small notebook or your phone – it’s faster than trying to remember everything.

Team size matters too. Most easy rooms work best with 2‑4 people. Too many players can cause chaos, while a duo may miss a hidden hint. Aim for a mix of strengths: someone good at spotting patterns, another who’s comfortable with physical tasks.

How Much Should You Pay?

Escape room prices vary by city, room length and popularity. In the UK, a standard 60‑minute slot for 4 players typically costs between £20 and £30 per person. Premium experiences – extra‑long sessions, high‑tech props or private bookings – can climb to £40‑£50 each.

Look out for group discounts. Many venues offer a 10‑15% reduction for parties of 8 or more. Weekday slots are usually cheaper than weekends, so if your schedule is flexible, book a Tuesday evening for a better deal.

Don’t forget extra fees. Some places charge a small “reset” fee if you want to replay the same room soon after, or a deposit for equipment like VR headsets. Always ask the host what’s included in the price before you book.

Saving money is easy if you sign up for a venue’s newsletter. They often send a discount code for first‑time players or run a “buy‑one‑get‑one‑free” promotion during slow months.

Now that you’ve got the basics, what’s next? Pick a theme that sounds fun, check the price for your preferred day, and gather a small, balanced team. Dress in comfortable clothes – jeans, sneakers and a light jacket work for most rooms. Avoid overly baggy outfits that might get caught in props.

When the clock starts, focus on communication. Share every clue, even if it seems trivial. A two‑minute comment could be the key to unlocking the final door. And remember, it’s okay if you don’t finish every puzzle; the experience is about teamwork and having a good laugh.

Ready to book? Use these pointers to pick the right room, stay within budget and boost your chances of escaping. Have a blast, and come back for a tougher challenge once you’ve got the hang of it!