Are Lucardo Escape Rooms Like That Movie, Escape Room?

As any game master can tell you, one of the first things people ask us is “are escape rooms like the movie, Escape Room?”

A lot of the time, this question is posed with sarcasm. To which we laugh, and join the group in deducing which one of them is most likely to make it out alive.

However, as much as we appreciate the joke side of the question, we can’t help but empathise with the people who may hold this very legitimate concern. After all, the concept of being locked in a themed room with a ticking timer, knowing your main goal is to get out? With the Hollywood depiction of the activity involving lots of screaming, panic, and paranoia? Trust us, we can understand the alarm.

So, we’re writing this post as a handy guide to the true nature of escape rooms, and hopefully quash any concerns. As much as we love to munch on popcorn and enjoy these freak-tastic flicks, we don’t want them putting anyone off the fact that escape rooms are, in fact, safe, exciting, enjoyment for all. And, yes, that includes those who hate scary movies!

Don’t get me wrong – a lot of escape rooms utilize horror elements such as live actors and jump scares. But never, ever, high-risk factors such as the ovens, poisons, and extreme weather conditions we all saw in the 2019 psychological-horror flick. None of us can be bothered with all the insurance, waivers, paperwork, and clean-ups that would come with running that kind of establishment. Plus, you know, the fact that it would be highly immoral and illegal.

No, our family-friendly escape game puzzles are all based on logic, observation, storytelling, and physical exploration. Fans love the hands-on elements of the games, not to mention the brain workout and the laughs with friends!

Some rooms such as the fantastic Orphanage at Lucardo Manchester, are designed to be on the more chilling side. After all, that rush of fear-fuelled adrenaline is hard to match. But, all the rooms at Lucardo are designed to be suitable for anyone ages ten and up, with most games not themed around fear at all. Magic, espionage, historical, crime-solving… there are so many other fun stories to explore. Whether you’re expecting laughs, adventure, surprises, or shocks, there’ll be a room – or several – for you at Lucardo!

Some things to remember:

1. You’re never truly “locked” in the room. At any point, you’re welcome to push the door and step outside – whether it’s to get some air, use the bathroom, or just get away from that one member of your party who is winding you up!

2. In the same way, if you don’t complete the puzzles in time – that’s fine! Believe it or not, we still want you to leave! Let someone else have a go!

3. Before each game, we’ll give you a thorough briefing on what to expect, including health and safety and tips for the room. Pay attention.

4. At Lucardo, your friendly game hosts will be watching you at all times. Should absolutely anything untoward happen or you feel uncomfortable, we’ll be there to help.

Plus, if you have any specific concerns, let us know! We’d be more than happy to discuss the room content with you, and may even be able to minimize any thematic elements (such as smoke or sound effects) should these be a particular trigger for you.

So, when you arrive for your room, mention it to us! Or, if you’d prefer to be a bit more discreet and not discuss your concerns in front of your party, we’d be happy to chat over the phone or email before your game, too.

We can’t wait to welcome you into one of our fantastic escape rooms at Lucardo. Just make sure to say your goodbyes to friends and family beforehand… you won’t be seeing them for a long time.

*Cue evil laughter*

Mwah, ha ha.

…

Nah we’re just kidding – have fun!