CONQUERING COMMON PUZZLES
What types of puzzles are found in these rooms?
NUMERICAL
Numerical clues are not always found in a straightforward equation. Sometimes the hardest part of a numerical puzzle is finding the puzzle itself. One example of these puzzles involves equations using colours, for example (red + green yellow) x orange’. The only way for this to work is to find these colour clues around the room and figure out what numbers the colours correspond to. Whether they are real items or a decorative picture, search for items and clues that pair up.
DEXTEROUS
This is a puzzle designed for someone with skilful control, balance, the ability to multitask and plan ahead. Defined by their intricate pathways and confusing networks, maze boards are a common find in escape rooms. Sometimes larger versions require four people to take a corner and remain steady in times of stress. A key is usually found at the centre, and when the team successfully reaches the maze’s core they unlock a new aspect of the room.
LOGICAL
Some of the most frustrating puzzles can test your logic rather than your knowledge. Forcing you to envisage words’ usage and meanings in new ways, riddles trip a lot of people up in escape rooms. The two main types are enigma riddles, which are likely to be metaphorical, or conundrums, which test your wordplay ability. The beauty of escape rooms is the high likelihood that the answer is in the room. Working backwards could help you out, so keep a look out for objects that could fit – or, if you have found a series of letters, what words do they make?
VISUAL
Paying attention to every detail is crucial. But once you’ve seen everything, take time to look again. Observe the surroundings of the room in new ways, because you never know where clues might be hidden. Optical illusions are the perfect way to hide the answers right in front of the players’ eyes. Your eyes can sometimes be tricked into not seeing words if they are hidden in the spaces of a picture or blend into a similar background.
COMBINATIONAL
Once you have rushed around the room trying to answer all the puzzles, you may be left with multiple answers. Items such as padlocks can be ideal for putting the findings together and progressing to the next stage. Make sure you try all combinations. If it still doesn’t open, it may be time to revisit the numerical puzzles again.