101 Weekends of Fun

In an escape room, it's important to assess everything around you to determine how it may play a role in the puzzle. Although stairs aren't a fixture in every escape room, you can often find them in larger rooms — which can pose more of a challenge because of the two floors on which the game takes place. In such a room, it's important for you to realize that the stairs aren't just something to get from one level to another. In many cases, their existence can have a direct link to the game. Here are some ways that you can carefully assess the stairs.

The Number Of Stairs

One thing that you'll definitely want to do is to quickly count the number of stairs that make up the staircase. The number could be nothing, or it could be a part of the game. For example, if there are 12 stairs, and you have a combination lock that requires opening — and a riddle that may seem to refer to the stairs — try entering 012 into the lock. Always be open to ways of incorporating the number of stairs into any riddle that seems to suggest the need for a number. You'll be immensely pleased with yourself if the number works.

The Stair Treads

Take a moment to carefully inspect each of the stair treads that make up the staircase. While most of them are almost certainly nailed or screwed down, there might be one that is hinged. Lifting it could reveal another clue or an essential prop that you'll need. You can visually assess each stair tread to look for a set of small hinges, or you can simply lift up on the front edge of each tread. Finding what might hide beneath can be integral for moving forward in your escape room game.

The Position In The Room

Take note of the position of the staircase in the room. It could mean nothing, but it could be integral to solving one of the riddles. For example, if you stand at the entrance of the room and see that the staircase is positioned at 3 o'clock if you were viewing the room as the face of a clock, take note of any clues that reference this time. It's possible that such a clue could be designed to direct you to the staircase, where the next clue or some type of critical prop could be located.

Keep these tips in mind when you check out local escape room companies like Mind Twist.