Ultimate guide to playing Escape Rooms in Amsterdam

Escape rooms are a great way to bond with friends, family, or colleagues while testing your problem-solving skills. Amsterdam offers a variety of escape rooms with different themes, levels of difficulty, and game mechanics. To ensure you have a fun and memorable experience, here are some tips for planning your game.

But first, what are Escape Rooms?

Escape rooms are like live adventure games where you and your friends solve puzzles to "escape" a themed room. Imagine being in a detective story, working together to find clues and crack codes to solve a mystery before time runs out. Each room has a unique story and setting like a haunted house or a secret lab, making you feel like you're in a different world.

Before you start, a game master explains the story and rules. You're racing against the clock, usually with 60 to 90 minutes to solve all the puzzles and complete your mission. It's a fun test of teamwork, thinking skills, and imagination.

Is this the first Escape Room that you're going to play? Read our blog about what to expect from an escape room.

Tips for preparing for an Escape Experience in Amsterdam

‍

First, here are some reflections and thoughts you should have before booking an escape room. When? With who? What to anticipate?

The right group for your Escape Room Experience

First of all, make sure to choose a group that you enjoy spending time with and that can work together effectively. A good team dynamic makes all the difference in the success of your adventure. Whether it’s family or friends, make sure you can trust each other! If you want some advice on how to start, these 33 Escape Room tips will definitely come in handy before your experience. 

Now there might be a way to assemble a perfect escape room team. In the past few years, we have been able to observe different player types that work well together and fill different roles that all come in handy while playing. 

Are you more of a pack leader or a zen master? Maybe one of your close friends could be described as a brainy one and you should count them on your team. Find out which type of player resonates best with you and assemble the perfect team for your next adventure!

Appropriate Escape Room

To make the most of your visit, it's important to choose one that is appropriate for your group. Consider the age range, physical abilities, and number of participants before you decide which escape room is best for your group. Doing your research will ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience. If you need help choosing, here’s a list of great Dutch escape rooms that we highly recommend! 

Book an Escape Room ahead of time

If you're planning on doing an escape room in Amsterdam, it's essential to book ahead of time and plan your timeline. You don't want to risk missing out on your preferred time slot or feeling rushed during your experience. Keep in mind that escape rooms in Amsterdam typically have a time limit of around one hour, so it's important to plan accordingly. 

By knowing when and where you need to be, you can ensure that your team is prepared and focused for your thrilling expedition. Don't leave your adventure to chance – take the time to plan and make the most of your experience.

Know what to wear to an Escape Room

It's a good idea to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as you may need to crawl, climb, or move around.

Read our blog about what to wear to an escape room or check the tips below.

Top tips for what to wear to an Escape Room:

1. Prioritize Comfort and Ease of Movement 
2. Be Mindful of Loose or Flowing Clothing
3. Consider Escape Room Dress Codes
4. Embrace Comfort and Practicality
5. Choose Well-Fitted, Comfortable Shoes
6. Avoid Fancy or Expensive Outfits
7. Opt for Breathable Materials
8. Minimize Jewelry

Preparation is key

Unless otherwise stated, remember to arrive just a bit early! Before your escape experience, it's also important to read the rules and instructions carefully. You'll receive a briefing from the game master before entering the room, but it's helpful to have an understanding of the game mechanics in advance.

If you really want to prepare yourself beforehand, there are some fun ways to do so:

Trying out tabletop or smartphone escape rooms before hitting up a real one can be super handy. You don't have to do it, but it's like getting a sneak peek into what escape rooms are all about. 

These virtual games can help you practice solving puzzles, spotting hidden stuff, and thinking smart when you're in a tight spot. Experience with a combination lock might just prepare you for that certain challenge of a certain escape room involving a Vault…

Plus, you'll get a taste of the different types of challenges you might face in an actual escape room, which can give you a boost of confidence.

Sure, part of the fun is not knowing exactly what's gonna happen, but trying out these digital versions can totally gear you up with some useful skills and tricks to make the most of the real deal.

‍

Tips for a successful Escape Experience in Amsterdam

‍

‍

Now that you have an idea of how to choose an escape game and a team of your most trusted allies, here are some tips you should keep in mind before actually playing that will save you time and make your experience better. 

Use your time wisely

Time is of the essence, so make sure to use it wisely. Keep an eye on the clock! Focus on the clues and puzzles that will lead you to escape rather than getting sidetracked. And if something is taking you too long or you’re stuck, pass it on.

Communicate with your team

Communication is key in an escape room. Share your ideas and observations with your team, listen to their suggestions, and work together to solve the puzzles. Update your teammates on what you are trying to solve and what discoveries you’ve made at all times.

Think clearly and keep it simple

Often, the solution to a puzzle can be more straightforward than it initially appears. Don't overthink the clues and try to simplify the problem to its most basic elements. Overcomplicating the puzzle may cause you to miss the obvious solution. So, take a deep breath, clear your mind, and think through the clues one step at a time. Keeping it simple can often lead to surprising breakthroughs and solutions that you may have otherwise overlooked.

Don't be afraid to ask for help

If you're stuck or struggling, don't be afraid to ask the staff for a clue. They're there to help you have a great experience and can give you a nudge in the right direction. Listen closely to your host as the solutions they give you might not be so straightforward. 

Have fun

Remember, the most important thing is to have fun! Don't take the game too seriously and enjoy the experience with your team. 

If you want to learn how to ace your next escape room experience in more details, check out this blog on strategies to keep in mind!

Reap the benefits of your success!

Congratulations! You've successfully escaped or didn’t make it and just enjoyed it. Either way, you had fun! Now it's time to celebrate your achievements and unwind after an intense and exciting experience. Whether you prefer a quiet night in or a night out exploring the local bars, take the time to relax and reflect on all that you and your team have accomplished. We’re sure it will be an unforgettable experience, and it's important to commemorate your success. So raise a glass and toast to your ingenuity, teamwork, and perseverance – you deserve it!

‍