July
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Escape Matrix – (Heist)
Escape Matrix was our first stop on our Kitchener/Waterloo trip. Its located inside a Greek Community center. We actually circled around a few times before we called them and when we did Gamemaster Vincent came out. The lobby area was large and had a number of tables with boardgames. Initially we booked the Demon Hotel but was told that we needed 3 players to play it (because of a gameplay mechanic) instead we were recommended to try a new game, which hasn’t been given an official name, so we’ll call it (Heist).
Creativity and Design (aka its Fancy level): – Was it inventive ? Did it fit the theme?
Score : 3.5 of 5.0
At first walking into the room (Heist) reminded me alot of many of the Markham/Scarborough locations that had a few hanging wires and obvious tech implementations. As you progress the room does get more interesting, but finishes a bit bland. There weren’t any dollar store props and the set design felt like a small town art gallery. I would say that overall it wasn’t bad but it was missing some polish (like hanging wires).
Bells and Whistles: Was it just lockboxes throughout the Room?
Score: 4.0 of 5.0
The tech overall was well implemented. SPOILER ALERT, this room had a Laser Room (groan) but it was well built (but not so creative). What actually impressed us was a room that had NO tech, but instead used a creative and low tech puzzle. We didn’t experience any safety issues, and the tech did work.
Intuitive (aka Frustration Level): Was it solvable? or Did you have to be inside the creators mind to solve it?
Score: 5.0 of 5.0
When we see a pattern of not-so-polished set design with tech its hard for us not to associate that with poor puzzle design (which is most of Markham/Scarborough). However this room was the exception. We breezed through the majority of puzzles other than one (which had an alternative route). Overall the puzzles were well thoughtout and straightforward and should be easy for new players or experienced players (we got out with 20 minutes to spare).
Staff Support/Price : Were they friendly? Were they helpful? What was the Damage?
Gamemaster Vincent was nice to chat with and seems to have some worldly experiences which we hope pays off in his future rooms.
The price is $22 / person plus tax with a $2 discount if you book online. Which for the area and experience was reasonable.
Overall: The (Heist) has your standard tech-fare with some interesting puzzle design. As long as you can find Escape Matrix, its worth a try.
For more information check out:
http://www.escapematrix.com/
57 Lodge St, Waterloo
ON, N2J 3B6
Escape Games Review 
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