The Most Common Mistakes When Trying to Solve an Escape Room

Focusing Too Much on a Certain Aspect of the Room or Unsolvable Parts

One of the most common mistakes made in escape rooms is when groups become fixated on a particular aspect of the room or puzzle, often wasting valuable time and resources.

It's easy to get tunnel vision when you believe a specific item or clue holds the key to your escape.

However, keep in mind that escape rooms are designed to be challenging and require multiple layers of thinking. It's crucial to maintain an open mind and explore all areas of the room.

Remember, not all items or clues will be relevant to your escape, and sometimes you may encounter unsolvable components intentionally placed to distract you.

By maintaining a holistic approach and considering multiple possibilities, you increase your chances of success.

Keeping Info to Yourself

In the heat of the moment, with adrenaline pumping and time ticking away, it's common for individuals to inadvertently keep important information to themselves.

Whether it's a clue they discovered or a solution they figured out, failing to communicate effectively can significantly impede progress.

Escape rooms are designed to foster teamwork, and sharing information is crucial for success. Make sure to maintain clear and constant communication with your team members.

Create an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their findings and insights.

Remember, the more minds working together, the better your chances of cracking the puzzles and escaping in time!

Covering Up Items with Other Items and Forgetting They Exist

Escape rooms are often filled with various objects, each serving a purpose in the overall puzzle-solving experience.

However, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement and accidentally cover up items with other items or forget they exist altogether. This oversight can lead to missed opportunities and unnecessary frustration.

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the room's layout and inventory. Keep the space organized, ensuring that objects are visible and accessible to all team members.

By maintaining an organized environment, you'll be able to quickly identify clues and make connections more efficiently.

Focusing on Non-Game Elements

Sometimes escape room enthusiasts can become distracted by non-game elements within the room, such as decorative props or furniture. While these elements contribute to the immersive experience, they may not hold the answers you seek.

Don't let aesthetics and ambiance divert your attention from the actual puzzles and clues.

Stay focused on the task at hand and avoid getting sidetracked by unrelated objects.

Remember, every item in the room should have a purpose within the game, so make sure to prioritize your efforts accordingly.

Not Asking for Hints from a GM

Escape rooms can be challenging, and it's not uncommon to hit a roadblock or become stuck on a particular puzzle. Many groups make the mistake of not asking for hints from the Game Master (GM).

The GM is there to assist and guide you throughout your escape room experience. If you find yourself struggling or feeling overwhelmed, don't hesitate to seek help.

The GM can provide valuable hints or nudges in the right direction without spoiling the entire challenge. Asking for hints when needed ensures that you make progress and have an enjoyable experience.

Keeping in mind these pitfalls that players experience can help you set some personal bests when running the escape rooms of your choice, helping you become faster and more efficient.