The Ultimate Guide To Prepare For Your Very First Escape Room Adventure

Are you looking forward to your very first escape room experience?

Whether you’re trying to escape a magical jungle, locate and disable the secret of a criminal mastermind, or go up against the Mafia – those are actual escape games at Lost Reality, by the way – you’re in for a treat!

That being said, if you’re a first-timer, there are some things that you should know about preparing yourself for your escape room adventure.

From staying focused to planning your route to the escape room, here’s how to get ready – both mentally and physically – for your first ever escape adventure!

What is an escape room?

An escape room is a live-action, team-based game in which players work together to solve puzzles, crack codes, and complete tasks within a set time limit to achieve a specific goal – usually, to escape the room. 

For example, our Mafia-themed game features players finding their way through a house belonging to the New York Mafia, following the clues to find a secret diary.

These immersive experiences often feature elaborate themes and storylines that transport players to another world, making for a truly unforgettable adventure.

Discover celebrities who have loved the experience!

Choosing your escape room

You could certainly go the “eenie meenie mynie moe” way…but if you follow our tips for choosing an escape mission, you will have a debut escape adventure that’ll stay with you forever!

Here’s how to go about it.

Tips for choosing the right escape room for you and your group

• Think about how difficult you want the mission to be.
  • Generally speaking, escape games have 3 levels – easy, moderately challenging, and very hard.
  • As first-timers, you should stick to the easy ones. If you’re really looking for a challenge, go for moderately challenging adventures, but be prepared to take a loss.
• Check age restrictions and accessibility options.
  • Generally speaking escape rooms are for all age group, but some themes may be suitable for mature minds only.
  • A typical accessibility issue is whether the room is wheelchair-friendly. Here at Lost Reality Escape Room, for example, all but one of the games are wheelchair-accessible.

Research the different themes

There’s an escape room out there for everyone! 

From trying to escape a magical jungle to fighting an army of the undead – any scenario is possible if you search long enough!

List out all the favourite movies, books and themes of your group (escape rooms are a team activity, as we shall see in a few moments), and select an adventure that fits the bill!

If the thought of escape rooms is scaring you, here is an article on overcoming fear while doing an escape room.

Consider location, price, and reviews

When choosing an escape room, consider the location, pricing, and reviews. 

The location should be convenient, pricing should fit your budget, and reviews can provide insights into the quality of the experience. 

Taking these factors into account will help you choose the best escape room for you and your group.

Assemble your team and get everyone on the same page

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If you didn’t know, escape rooms are team events. Over and above the added skills and manpower that a team brings, sharing the experience with your loved ones is one of the USPs of an escape adventure.

Choosing the right teammates

Choosing the right teammates is crucial for a successful escape room experience. 

Select individuals who work well under pressure and can stay focused and calm in challenging situations. 

Strong communication skills and a willingness to collaborate are also important qualities to look for in potential teammates.

Make sure everyone’s on the same page about the experience

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable escape room experience, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the rules, time limits, and objectives of the game. 

Take time to discuss these details with your team before starting the game, and make sure everyone is on the same page. 

By setting clear expectations and guidelines, you’ll be able to focus on solving puzzles and enjoying the adventure without any confusion or misunderstandings.

Mental preparation

You may be wondering – is there really such a thing as mentally preparing for an escape room?

Here’s the deal: A sharp mind is your greatest asset in an escape room. 

Getting in the right mindset can make all the difference when it comes to deciphering codes and solving puzzles.

How to get in the right mindset

Take some time before the game to visualize success and picture yourself succeeding in solving the puzzles. 

Embracing the idea of teamwork and collaboration can also help you to feel more confident and prepared for the challenges ahead. 

Finally, don’t forget to relax and have fun – a positive attitude can make all the difference in enjoying the escape room experience.

Tips for calming nerves and staying focused

• Take deep breaths.
• Share any concerns or fears with your teammates.
• Embrace the excitement of the unknown.

Physical preparation

While escape rooms aren’t usually physically strenuous, they do require some level of mobility, dexterity, and occasional bending or reaching. 

Be prepared to move around and interact with your environment.

Tips for staying comfortable during the experience

• Stay hydrated.
• Stretch beforehand.
• Take breaks if needed.

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes

Wearing comfortable clothes and shoes can help you to stay relaxed and focused during your escape room adventure. 

Choose clothing that allows for easy movement and won’t restrict your range of motion. 

In addition, wear shoes that provide support and grip, as you may need to move quickly during the game.

Refer to our escape room outfits blog fo more fashion tips.

Some other pre-game preparation tips

Some practical tips to ensure you arrive at the escape room ahead of time, fresh and ready to take on the mission (as opposed to having to rush through the streets to turn up in time and being out of breath by the time you’re there).

Get plenty of sleep the night before

This is crucial for mental sharpness and focus. 

Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep the night before to ensure you’re well-rested and energized. 

Lack of sleep can lead to decreased cognitive function, making it more difficult to solve puzzles and clues.

Plan the route to the escape room

Use a GPS or map to determine the best route to the location, and leave plenty of time for unexpected delays such as traffic or road closures. 

Arriving at the escape room early can also help you to feel more relaxed and mentally prepared for the challenges ahead. 

Winning escape room strategies

From assigning roles to taking notes and staying organized, here are some strategies to follow to boost your odds of winning your debut escape room game.

Work as a team

As we said, an escape room is a team event. A team brings not only more eyes to spot clues but also more brains to think up and discuss ideas.

But the thing is that you need to leverage your collective strength as a team. Work together to solve puzzles and share your insights.

Assign roles

Assigning roles within your team can help to streamline the escape room experience and make the most of each team member‘s unique strengths and skills. 

This is another way of leveraging your collective capacity as a team and working more efficiently.

Timekeeper

Especially if it’s your first time, it’s easy to get carried away amidst the room design and special effects on one hand and rising panic should you struggle with some of the puzzles.

That can lead to you completely losing track of time.

Designate someone to keep an eye on the clock, ensuring the team stays on track and focused.

Communicate effectively

Clear and concise communication is crucial for solving escape room puzzles. 

Make sure you are listening to your teammates and sharing your thoughts in a way that can be easily understood.

Take notes

It’s easy to get lost in the excitement of the escape room and forget important details. Take notes on the clues you find and their possible solutions. 

This will help you keep track of your progress and avoid repeating mistakes.

Use your resources

Escape rooms often provide tools or props that can be used to solve puzzles – it could be anything from a simple screwdriver to a UV light. 

Don’t hesitate to use them. 

Think creatively and outside the box to find unexpected uses for these items.

Tip: On the other hand, limit yourself to items provided by the escape room. Don’t, for example, start unscrewing everything you see just because you happen to be carrying a screwdriver in your pocket.

Keep your cool

It’s easy to get frustrated or anxious when you’re stuck on a puzzle. 

Take a deep breath, step back, and reassess the situation. 

Keeping a clear head will help you think more clearly and solve the puzzle faster.

What if you get stuck?

Feeling stumped is normal in escape rooms. The key is to stay calm and work together to overcome obstacles.

Tips for overcoming mental blocks and solving difficult puzzles

• Take a step back and reassess the situation.
• Collaborate and brainstorm with your teammates.
• Try approaching the puzzle from a different angle.

Ask for clues before it’s too late

Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Most escape rooms offer hints or clues to keep the game moving. Don’t make it a point of pride to not ask for help so you can do everything on your own.

You may find that by the time you finally realize you need help, it’s too late. You simply can’t complete the adventure within your remaining time.

So, don’t be reticent, and ask the game master for help if you’re stuck.

Frequently asked questions about preparing for your first escape room attempt

From what to take along to the escape room to some tips for tackling horror-themed adventures, find all the commonly made queries about preparing for escape rooms answered!

How do you mentally prepare for an escape room?

Mentally preparing for an escape room is essential to ensure you’re in the right mindset for the challenge. 

Here are some tips to get you ready:

Visualize success

• Picture yourself and your team successfully completing the escape room.
• Imagine the excitement of solving puzzles and unlocking doors.

Embrace teamwork

• Remind yourself that you’re part of a team and that everyone has unique strengths to contribute.
• Foster a positive and supportive atmosphere.

Calm your nerves

• Take deep breaths and focus on the present moment.
• Share any concerns or fears with your teammates.

Remember, it’s all about having fun and enjoying the experience!

How to do an escape room for beginners?

Newbies to the genre can follow these tips:

Choose the right escape room

• Pick a theme that interests you and your group.
• Opt for a beginner-friendly room with a moderate difficulty level.

Communicate and collaborate

• Keep your team in the loop and listen to everyone’s ideas.
• Work together to solve puzzles and make progress.

Assign roles

• Designate roles within your team, such as a timekeeper or clue organizer.
  • The timekeeper is a particularly crucial role, as the storyline and special effects can distract players and make them lose track of time.

Stay persistent

• Don’t be discouraged by setbacks; remember that challenges are part of the fun.
• Keep an open mind and consider alternative solutions.

Now you’re ready to tackle your first escape room adventure!

What should you take to an escape room?

When heading to an escape room, less is more. Here’s a short list of what you should take:

• A watch to keep track of time (in case there isn’t a visible timer in the room).
• A hair tie or headband to keep your hair out of your face during those intense moments.
• A small, lightweight bag or fanny pack to store personal items (if permitted by the escape room).
• Reading glasses if you need them.
• Some escape rooms may require photo ID for identification. Contact them beforehand to check, and carry it along if needed.

It’s best to leave your personal belongings, such as bags and smartphones, in the car or at home, as they’re typically not allowed inside the escape room.

Lost Reality Adds: Here at our Perth escape room, we have lockers where you can keep your phones.

How do you prepare for a scary escape room?

Ah, the spine-tingling, hair-raising world of scary escape rooms! Here’s how to prepare for the spooky experience:

Know what to expect

• Research the theme and storyline to avoid any unwanted surprises.
• Keep in mind that escape rooms are meant to be fun, even when they have a scary storyline and adventure.

Choose your teammates wisely

• Invite friends who enjoy a good scare and can keep cool under pressure.
• Make sure everyone is on board with the theme and level of scariness.

Embrace the fear factor

• Remind yourself that it’s a game, and the fear is part of the thrill.
• Use the adrenaline rush to fuel your problem-solving skills.

So, gather your brave pals, and get ready for a spooktacular escape room experience!

Preparing to face your first escape room mission – key points

Preparing for your first escape room adventure can be daunting, but by following these key steps, you can set yourself up for success. 

Careful planning and preparation will help you to fully immerse yourself in the experience and enjoy it to the fullest. 

Remember to embrace the spirit of teamwork, assign roles strategically, and stay persistent when faced with difficult challenges.

Ready to face the test?

Now that you know how to get ready for your very first escape room adventure – and set yourself up for a successful breakout before running out of time…

It’s time to put your skills to the test! 

On your way from Malaga? Gather your team and book an adventure at Lost Reality Escape Room Perth. 

If you have further questions, get in touch!