Escape Reality Coventry: Alcatraz

The worst room I've played so far, and by some distance. To start the game there was a missing prop in the room which was essential for the running of the game. We had to wait 15 minutes for them to sort the issue, whilst other staff members in and repeatedly asked us if we had just missed the prop - which we hadn't. One staff member was a particularly terrible host. I dont like isolating anyone for this but the more experienced host who took over our game was really uncomfortable. In searching for the missing prop he threw around our coats and bags that were left in the corner. He only gave us 8 minutes of additional time to make up for the error, not the full 15 we had lost. He was also very rude when we didn't want a picture for their social media (not possible for our jobs). 

The clue system was terrible - it was clear the staff weren't monitoring the game. You could only get a clue by signalling them, then waiting for them to enter before you had to fill them in on where you were. 

Finally, some of the puzzles were beyond illogical, and others were beyond easy. There was no inbetween. Unless you have a knowledge of electrical circuit symbols and unique crossword types then you're going to need the support of the host. 

A very poor room and from the looks of it a very poor company. 

Just another prison escape. It was a good room for beginners to get the hang of this theme, but otherwise nothing really note-worthy. 

Hosting was mixed, depending on the game master you ended up with. For this particular game, we had an attentive GM who was just as excited as we were. 

Some props and puzzles were already a little damaged. 

Our first ever escape room! Host was friendly and kept us calm considering we had no idea what to expect.

Locked in separate cells, so forced to communicate using voice only, "We Were Here" style!

Puzzles were varied and interesting, though nothing particularly stood out. Theming and decor were excellent.

One early padlock wouldn't open despite us inputting the correct combination - turns out it was just a bit tight and needed a tough pull, but this cost us nearly 15 minutes!

The hints system was via an iPad where you had to "scan" things with a camera, and had a 10-minute cooldown. Not ideal, given how vague some of the hints were.

Shame this place has shut down, would've recommended it to friends.