While private escape rooms are usually the standard option at the vast majority of escape companies, there are times when you’ll see a sneaky disclaimer that informs players they’ll be grouped with strangers upon arrival…

Here’s why you should always avoid this option! 

It’s About Bonding!

Playing an escape game is a fantastic way to build better relations and create lasting memories with your teammates. Whether this is with your colleagues, your family members or with your friends – to put it simply, you won’t be able to get the most out of your escape experience when you’re in a group of strangers. There will be a noticeable change in dynamic even if there are only a couple of strangers to make up the numbers.

It’s Less Awkward…

Escape rooms are confined and personal with nowhere to hide! Being forced to plan and communicate with strangers in such an intimate setting can result in one LONG hour! Not everyone will feel the same way, of course. There are extroverts out there who would relish this particular challenge, but the vast majority would definitely prefer playing within their comfort zone – especially considering escape rooms take people out of their comfort zones in the first place! 

It’s YOUR Experience!

Meeting new people is great, but there’s definitely a time and a place for it. Playing an escape game should be an exciting experience and, most importantly, it should be YOUR experience! Crossing the threshold into an immersive world just doesn’t have the same charm when you’re preoccupied with learning the names and personalities of your unknown teammates! Let your hair down and embrace your inner weirdness without worrying about what strangers think of you!

It’s in Your Best Interest

Escape room operators who only run games that are at max (or close to max) capacity are acting in their own interest – aiming to make as much money as possible from each booking. Combining multiple groups of strangers to make up the numbers for each room is their standard business MO, which could lead to you being outnumbered by strangers. If this is the case, you’re likely to become a passenger without any control over the gameplay. If you’re going to play an escape game, make sure it’s on your own terms!