Handmade Mysteries Clapham: Lady Chastity’s Reserve

Dark and grubby, a couple of good puzzles. Didn't like the fact we were grouped with strangers - something that doesn't often happen in UK escape rooms

Fun, but dark room and too many with 5 — I missed seeing a lot of the puzzles and how they were solved. Public booking meant I, as a rando, injected into a group of 4. We won the game and shared the bottle after—one of the best ways to end a game I’ve experienced.

Tricky one to review as the set and immersion were very good. Some of the puzzles were very clever and unique but many were also illogical (sometimes with multiple seemingly valid solutions) and extremely tired. In one case it was difficult to tell what the answer was even after solving the puzzle. With some more TLC this room could live up to its prior reputation once again.

Overall enjoyed playing this game GM was generally good, however, it does feel that a lot of the clue pieces and props had been inherited from when the game under Handmade Mysteries and could do with a refresh. It was also far too dark at times, making the game excessively difficult, I don't mind difficult puzzles at all, but puzzles shouldn't be difficult because you can't see properly what you are doing.

Host was very good, she stayed in character the whole time and gave a great sense of immersion. Though it was our first room, we felt the pacing was just right (hence our time) and the help/hints were very good. Some physical effort needed, crawling through a low tunnel, but was ok even with my dodgy knees. I hope other rooms are as good. Theme was excellent, atmosphere incredible, and overall a wonderful experience.