A crazy scientist imprisons other scientists in an underground prison to conduct experiments. Imagine yourself in that prison, well aware that the bloodstains and random numbers scribbled on the walls are not so random after all. They are clues that will allow you to escape this maddening place. But, wait, you’ve forgotten something. The clock is ticking...
Real Escape Game, an adventure alternative entertainment option, is to open for the first time in the city next week. Launched by Freeing India, an amusement services company (and part of Laser Gambit), Real Escape Game will have four puzzles with different themes that need to be solved in 45 minutes. Groups of three or more will be locked in a room and will have to solve the puzzle and find their way out through another exit.
“India’s demography is the best in the world with more than 40 per cent of its population young. The middle-class is prospering and there is a real need for entertainment options. If you take Chennai in particular, we continue to grow fast as a city and yet we lack social infrastructure and alternative entertainment. Hopefully, these games will bridge that gap,” says Murali Barathi, founder and director, Freeing India. Shiva Subramanian, consultant (creative thinking), adds, “The point here is it institutionalise fun and make it happen in a small room.”
Real Escape Game will be aimed at three groups — college, corporate and communities. “Why do we study? Or build a family? Or live? Life is really about fun — when you play a game, there are so many components and life skills that it teaches you. It helps in concentration, team work, problem-solving and risk-taking abilities,” says Shiva. The games are also aimed at merging the gap between education and active entertainment. “You have to really think, if you want to solve these puzzles. It also gives you the experience of being in those situations and facing them head-on. The only thing to remember is that everything in the room, even the most normal objects could be a clue,” says Murali.
The four puzzles are — cricket-themed, heartbreak, prison break and dark room. If the participants are stuck at any point of the game, they are given a lifeline, where a valuable clue is given. At the end, if the puzzle remains unsolved, they can come back and give it another go. “Everywhere else, these puzzles are spreading like wildfire and we think a city like Chennai deserves this kind of entertainment too,” says Murali.
Freeing India will be open to public from April 14 and is located in the basement of Ispahani Centre, Nungambakkam High Road. The games can be booked by appointments and will cost Rs. 300 a person. Students will receive a discount, if they can produce a valid ID card.