RATING: 4 Keys          RESULT: Win          REMAINING: 27:43

In a zombie filled apocalypse scenario, only one food item remains… the Twinkie.

The Zombie Apocalypse has finally happened! You’ve been able to survive in your small community so far. It is your job to collect necessary supplies in order to survive. There is an abandoned compound not too far away that you need to search through for any supplies your community could use. Rumor has it that food and weapons have been spotted there, including the highly sought after twinkie. However evidence of zombie walkers have been seen around this compound as well – caution must be used. ​ You and your team will split up to cover more ground, make sure you have something to carry any supplies you find back with you so they are not contaminated, don’t lose anyone and don’t get bit!

In a sudden turn of events, civilization has collapsed due to our favorite shambling monsters… zombies.  An intrepid group of survivors have to go in to the wastelands on a supply run. Only one small problem, we heard there are zombies lurking in the compound.

A special supply run has been tasked to the scavengers.  But what makes this one so special? Reports are there is an elusive, zombie apocalypse proof, box of food inside this compound.  The last box of Twinkies are somewhere locked away inside, and we will do everything it takes to get it back to our camp.

Dystopia takes place across a multi-room experience consisting of bunkers, the wasteland, and a cargo compound.   Each room consists of a run down apocalyptic feel with worn elements, darkness, and the feeling there is something just behind the doors.

The bunkers serve as a split start mechanic.  Teams are separated in to two different rooms with similar setups.  Communication devices and journal entries left behind from fellow scavengers are the main focus of the bunkers, with industrial roll down metal doors temporarily protecting us from the outside.

As all scavengers know, the outside world is the place to be.  Upon leaving the bunkers, in the wastelands, it is dark, foggy, and features a green laser effect used in haunted attractions.  The mist and lights create an eerie feeling around this room, where things seem to appear without notice.

Without breaking the immersion, the tension keeps running high until explorers enter the compound.  The hiding spot of the prized Twinkies houses many surprises of its own. With cargo crates lined with supplies, there may be something lurking just around the corner.

While on the easier side of the spectrum for enthusiasts, the puzzle flow remains logical without hiccups throughout the experience.  The puzzles tie in to the narrative flow of the zombie apocalypse, and our needs to scavenge. Most of what we are breaking in to and rummaging are our critical supplies needed for the encampment.

Use of the environment here is crucial to many puzzle elements, as well as teamwork.  Due to the split start, teams will have to work together to communicate and reunite. However this can be challenging at times, due to configurations with how communication between the two bunkers works.  

With a mix of the standard combination lock and key fare, tech elements are integrated in to the storyworld all relating to the zombie theme.  Scavengers will have to read through journal entries, and written notes left behind from prior inhabitants of the bunker and compound complex.

The main story point for your team is to obtain every item on the checklist.  These can range from the practical items like paper towels, to the funny but necessary clean pair of underwear.  But be careful when scavenging the wastelands, you never know what may be protecting that vital box of Twinkies.

Locked Adventures provides a slightly scary, and fun experience in the wake of a zombie outbreak.  This venue is one of the few to use an in-game actor that both adds to the scare factor and can be used to nudge groups along the right path down puzzles.  We did say there was something lurking in the darkness didn’t we?

For newer escape room enthusiasts, Dystopia is a great start; a game with logical puzzle flow and a sense of tension the whole way.  More experienced groups may go through quickly, but can still enjoy the moments of fright and the scenic effects in the room while playing a solid game.

If you can, show up early.  There is a large lounge area with pinball and shuffleboard to relax before starting your adventure in to the wasteland.  Just remember to grab a Twinkie on your way out!

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Venue: Locked Adventures

Location: San Marcos, California

Number of Games: 3

GAME SPECIFIC INFORMATION:

Duration: 60 minutes

Capacity: 10 people

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

Cost: $35 per person

We thank Locked Adventures for inviting us to play this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, that in no way impacts the opinion included within this review.