Review: Odyssey Escape Game - Jack the Ripper

RATING: 4 Keys RESULT: Win REMAINING: 2:35

The identity of Jack the Ripper has always remained a mystery – until now.

Story

It’s November 9th, 1888. You are Scotland Yard’s finest detectives and you’re responding to a crime scene at 13 Miller’s Court in London’s Whitechapel district. You step inside the boarding room of Mary Kelly, the Ripper’s latest victim. Your objectives are to search for clues, collect the evidence and end the Ripper’s reign of terror. After returning to Scotland Yard you must piece together the evidence, contact eyewitnesses and determine the true identity of England’s most notorious serial killer. You only have 60 minutes before the Ripper flees London forever, depriving Great Britain of the truth…who is Jack the Ripper?

Our team of detectives has been tasked with identifying the infamous Ripper. For those that love a great mystery, this is the opportunity of a lifetime! However, nobody has ever succeeded with this mission. So, how will our group be any different than those that previously attempted this doomed challenge?

It just so happens that luck may be on our side. Another murder has taken place, and it seems that the Ripper may have been careless in the process. Clues that may assist in identifying the culprit have apparently been left at the crime scene. Also, several witnesses have agreed to come forward in order to share vital information. Taking advantage of this situation, the officers race to the boarding room to begin their investigation.

Scenic

The adventure takes place in two very different settings: the ghastly crime scene and the typical-looking police headquarters. Upon arriving at Mary Kelly’s living quarters, the investigative team is greeted with blood, blood, and more blood. Stains are present on the bed, walls, mirrors, floor, and clothing.

Everything about the room indicates that a brutal murder has just taken place. The only thing missing is the body, which has graciously been removed by the coroner’s office.

The office at Scotland Yard completely contrasts the boarding room. For the most part, everything is clean and organized. Along one wall are two bookcases separated by a wooden cabinet containing several drawers of pre-collected evidence. The room also contains two large desks, a rotary phone, a map of 1888 London, and a string of photos of both murder victims and suspects.

By surveying this scene, one immediately has the sense that many dots will need to be connected in order to successfully apprehend the criminal.

Puzzles

The puzzles presented in Jack the Ripper are quite intricate and challenging. Clues are literally scattered everywhere, and detectives must determine which pieces of information are necessary for solving the crime.

The progression is multi-linear, and at the end of each series, the team of investigators is provided with evidence necessary for completing their final task.

Throughout the game, the police officers search for clues and solve various puzzles in the apartment and then analyze the evidence at Scotland Yard.

In order to proceed as efficiently as possible through the adventure, detectives MUST be organized. It is crucial that information found is carefully linked to the appropriate suspect and diligent notes are taken to account for even the slightest detail. Failure to perform either of these tasks may result in the unsuccessful capture of Jack the Ripper.

Overall

A compelling story, authentic scenery, and creative puzzles makes Jack the Ripper a noteworthy competitor in the horror/mystery-themed genre. Traveling between two very contrasting environments gives players the feeling they are participating in two adventures for the price of one. Also, the opportunity for officers to hear testimony from several witnesses is a fun and unique experience.

Due to the complexity and larger quantity of puzzles, Jack the Ripper is suitable for veteran escape-game enthusiasts and those seeking a challenge. So, be sure to gather your smartest team of detectives, and get ready to solve one of the greatest mysteries of all time!