Salisbury, Dec 2022
Live Escape’s original game Spectre remains much loved by enthusiasts, so I’d been looking forward to trying their second full physical game. This one is at a different and more central address, and is distinctive in its play style – you could almost describe it as a concept game. That concept is one of separation, communication and cooperation, which most prison games use initially; this one is unusual in building more or less the entire game around that.
Note that all players start off imprisoned and in restraints. These are however only nominal restraints – for safety reasons each person is able to quickly free themselves if need be, which is as it should be. The approach allowed suspension of disbelief without compromising safety.
With pretty much every other escape room I’ve ever done, the play area is carefully separated from the outside world. The Brig turns that on its head. Not only is there no clear division between the game area and the venue lobby, but you’re playing in full view of the people walking past in the shopping centre outside. That might sound off-putting, or at least like a big drawback to the immersion, but in practice I didn’t find it so at all. It helps that the building itself fits the pirate theme so well, with its century-old dark timbers which would make the place feel like a pirates’ den even without any other decor.
I expect good game design from Live Escape Salisbury, and The Brig doesn’t disappoint. Each step made clear logical sense, and the structure meant that all four of us were involved pretty much throughout. There are a great many locks, and a labelling system (with nice metal decorations not just stickers) means it’s instantly clear where to use each key. The hosting was also excellent, with elements of acting that players can lean into for extra amusement if so inclined.
One warning: pick your teammates carefully, because if a group has any tendency to bicker, communication and cooperation tasks are liable to bring that out; and The Brig is designed around that type of task almost all the way through. That said, I noticed our host was perhaps quicker to give hints than normal, which I think is a good thing here: it made sure we didn’t end up stuck too long without anyone being sidelined or becoming a bottleneck. The result was smooth game flow and plenty of entertaining interaction.
With a fun finish, I found it enjoyable throughout. It’s modest in terms of floor area and appearance – if you’re looking for a sense of exploration and adventure you may be better off with an alternative. It may also be a little on the easy side if everyone in your team is an experienced escaper. But it executes its concept beautifully, managing to be much more of a team game than most rooms, giving a very solid experience that’s lifted further by the jaunty hosting and atmospheric, historic building in which it’s set. 