RATING: 3 Keys          RESULT: Win          REMAINING: 14:53

The storm’s the only way to power the time machine… even if we aren’t exactly sure why.

You find yourself in a dimly lit laboratory, standing before a towering machine that hums with potential energy. The Architect, a brilliant inventor, urgently explains that a massive storm is brewing outside and that its energy is the key to powering his latest creation. But time is running out – in just one hour, the storm will reach its peak and the window for harnessing its power will be gone. With the fate of your team in the balance, the Architect implores you to assist him in completing the machine and use it to escape through time!

The Architect’s identity, whereabouts, and fate remain unknown, but it’s time to enter his office and find a way to start up the machine. He left behind all the blueprints that document how to operate all the gadgets and contraptions. There will only be an hour to successfully start the machine, so there’s no time to waste.

While the storm outside is presented as the key to powering the machine, the necessity to harness such energy is not made clear. Without clear stakes or consequences, the urgency to complete this mission lands as artificial, lacking the tension needed to engage would be assistants.

The Architect spends most of his time in two areas, one of which being his office. This is the place he creates and displays the design concepts for each and every invention he’s working on. The scenery throughout is on par for an office setting, all the necessities included. While he keeps his largest machines in the laboratory, multiple smaller gadgets can also be found throughout this room.

Inside the lab are the Architects’ most prized creations. All of the scenery has a ‘backyard scientist’ aesthetic: ambiguous wiring, black tubing, and wooden machinery. None of it is grand or particularly striking to the eyes, making it clear that a lone inventor built everything himself.

Paradox’s strongest aspect, without a doubt, is its puzzles. It is always clear what needs to be done to further progress. Many cleverly designed interactions allow for multiple ‘ah ha’ moments.

A standout feature seen throughout is unusual mechanics given to ordinary objects. Using these things in unordinary ways brings a whole new life the environment full of commonly found office items.

One of the highlights of this mission is the inclusion of the Architect’s design documents. These blueprints are desperately needed to teach anyone how his creations work. Each machine is unique, yet all offer rewarding interactions.

Though Paradox struggles to establish and intriguing backstory and introduction into the world of the Architect, it succeeds in presenting an enigmatic workshop full of impressive inventions. At first glance, the surroundings appear to be ordinary, more like the office of one’s grandfather. Perhaps this reflects the solitude in which the Architect may operate, but it does little to heighten the sense of mystery or excitement at first. While this may not be the most intriguing beginning, the Architect’s laboratory might just bring curiosity and wonder, as would-be assistants work in close contact with his greatest creations.

This mission delivers a set of engaging and well-structured puzzles. Every interaction feels intentional, with clear objectives left by the guidance of the Architect. Showcasing clever challenges and satisfying solutions, the puzzles are the heart of Paradox, offering a wide range of unique interactions.

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Venue: Rabbit Hole Recreation Services

Location: Louisville, Colorado

Number of Games: 3

GAME SPECIFIC INFORMATION:

Duration: 60 minutes

Capacity: 8 people

Group Type: Private / You will not be paired with strangers.

Cost: $35-45 per person (Prices vary by group size)