Escape rooms are sweeping the world and becoming popular for good reasons. They’re a fun way to challenge your mind, work with friends, and test your teamwork skills. But let’s admit it—first-timers often feel overwhelmed and unsure about how to succeed. Success isn’t just about luck; it’s about having a plan. With the right approach, you can crack your first escape room with confidence and have a great time doing it!
Understand the Escape Room Theme and Story
Know the Scenario Before Starting
Before you step into the room, take a few moments to really take in your game masters’ spiel about why you’re there. This gives you a clear idea of what you’re trying to do. Understand the goal—are you escaping a prison, solving a murder, or finding hidden treasure? Knowing this helps guide your effort and refocuses your team on what really matters. Plus, it kicks off your adventure with a sense of purpose. To familiarise yourself with some examples, check out our room descriptions here!
Research or Ask for Clarifications
To better set yourself up, read through the FAQ page of your chosen escape room (you can check ours out here!). During the briefing, don’t hesitate to ask staff questions. Clarify what the main goal is and if there are any hints or rules you should know. Clear understanding from the start saves confusion later and makes your team more efficient.
Master Observation and Communication
Pay Close Attention to Details
Escape rooms are full of hidden clues and patterns. Scan the room systematically—check every corner, drawer, and object. Notice anything unusual or out of place. Sometimes, clues are hiding in plain sight or disguised as part of the furniture. Recognizing patterns, numbers, or symbols can turn out to be your key to escaping.
Communicate Clearly and Constantly
Sharing what you find is critical. Don’t keep clues to yourself—tell your team immediately. Use simple language and be specific. For example, say “I found a strange symbol on the wall” instead of just “nothing.” Make sure everyone hears each update so your efforts are coordinated. Constant communication prevents duplicated work and missed clues.
Prioritize Clues and Puzzles Logically
Tackle Easy and Obvious Clues First
Start with the clues that seem simplest or most obvious. These often lead to bigger breakthroughs or unlock more challenging puzzles. For example, an unlocked lock with a basic code can reveal a map or a key to another room. By solving simple puzzles early, you build momentum and gather information for tougher tasks.
Manage Multiple Puzzles Simultaneously
As your team progresses, several puzzles might be happening at once. Assign different people to work on various clues. Keep a simple checklist or chart to track what’s solved and what’s pending. Avoid focusing on just one puzzle for too long; keep your options open and work on multiple fronts when possible.
A snapshot of our Strangest Thing room.
Manage Time Wisely
Keep an Eye on the Clock
Time is the biggest enemy in an escape room. Regularly glance at the timer to stay aware of how much time is left. Set mini-deadlines—try to solve certain puzzles within a given span. If you’re running out of time, prioritize puzzles that seem easier or fastest to complete.
Know When to Move On
Some clues just don’t click, no matter how hard you try. Recognize when a certain approach isn’t working. If a puzzle is stumping your team for too long, shift focus to another one. Sometimes, stepping away from an unsolvable puzzle frees your mind and reveals new ideas to try later. Also, in order to stay on track, don’t be afraid to ask your game master for a clue at any time!
Use Tools and Clues Smartly
Keep Organized Notes and Drawings
Using a notebook or a digital app helps keep track of clues, codes, and solutions. Draw diagrams if needed, especially for puzzles that need visual understanding. Organized notes save time and prevent you from repeating work or forgetting solved clues. At Rush, all of your games will come equipped with a little digital notepad!
Don’t Overthink or Overcomplicate
Trust your instincts and avoid overanalysing every detail. If a clue seems straightforward, don’t waste time overthinking it. Sometimes, the simplest solution is the right one. Overcomplicating puzzles just slows you down, so keep things simple and stay focused.
Maintain a Positive and Calm Attitude
Stay Calm Under Pressure
It’s easy to get flustered when the clock is ticking. A calm mind thinks better. Take deep breaths, encourage your teammates, and keep stress levels low. Staying focused and composed lets you analyse clues clearly and work more effectively.
Encourage Each Other
Positive reinforcement boosts team spirit. Compliment good ideas, recognize efforts, and celebrate small wins. A motivated team is a confident team. Remember, having fun is part of the experience, no matter whether you escape or not!
Practice and Prepare Before Your First Escape Room
Try Practice Puzzles or Virtual Escape Rooms
Practicing puzzles online or trying virtual escape rooms helps sharpen your problem-solving skills. These simulate real scenarios and are often free or inexpensive. With more practice, recognizing clues and puzzles becomes easier.
Read Tips and Watch Videos
Learn from experienced players by watching tutorials or reviews. Many YouTube channels share strategies that make a real difference. Picking up new tips and tricks from these resources can give you an edge in your first escape adventure.
Learn From Your Experience
Debrief After the Game
Once you're done, talk about what went well and what didn’t. Share feedback with your team. Did someone overlook a clue? Was communication smooth? An honest review helps everyone improve and prepares you better for next time.
Apply Lessons Learned for Next Time
Use your experience as a stepping stone. Remember which strategies worked and which didn’t. Keep practicing puzzles, refining your teamwork, and sharpening your observation skills. Each escape room is a new challenge, but your skills keep growing.
Conclusion
Beating your first escape room isn’t just about solving puzzles fast. It’s about preparation, teamwork, sharp observation, and staying calm under pressure. Approach the challenge with confidence, and don’t forget to have fun. With these proven tips, you’ll crack your first escape room and create memories to share long after the clock runs out. Ready to take on the challenge? Book now. Your adventure awaits!
a snapshot of our Cluemanji room.