Originally we had planned to visit the Kennedy Space Center but, as is often the case, plans change. Which gave us a chance to review Epic Escapes in Cocoa.
Unusually, we took the opportunity to test two games in one visit. Here’s what we thought:
The Lost Temple – The Search for Annalise Rockhound review
The premise: Blasini’s Diamond and Mining Services, Inc. has sent their most valuable researcher Professor Annalise Rockhound on a mission to the jungle to find a legendary “miracle stone”. It is believed that this stone could cure any illness – and it’s your job to find it.
What did we think of The Lost Temple escape room?
Initially, the Lost Temple looked quite underwhelming, the opening ‘room’ particularly sparse. However, after solving the first few clues, the game comes to life.
The search for Annalise starts with a couple of simple puzzles that rapidly become more complex as you unlock the next stage of the game. We were totally absorbed in the challenge and the time flew by. This is a cleverly designed game in that you know you are making progress – and working towards a definite goal – so you always feel as though you are achieving something.
The theming is good, the set well-maintained and the puzzles logical and enjoyable.
Accessibility note: There is one ‘transition’ which may not be suitable for persons with walking or balance issues.
Our game stats:
Number of players: 2 (aged 47 – 61)
Time taken: 48 minutes
Number of clues: 0
Did we escape? Yes
Did we have fun? Yes
Price: $68.00 ($34 per player)*
Would we recommend? Yes
Rating: 4 out of 5
* You can get a 10% discount on your Epic Escapes game using the code EPIC10 when booking online
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The Killer Basement review
The premise: The last thing you remember is attending the fancy cocktail party Mr. Blasini was hosting at his residence. You and your friends were having a great time (maybe TOO good of a time) when Thomas, Mr. Blasini’s employee, offers a tour of the luxurious mansion.
After a short journey down a remote staircase you feel a sharp blow to the back of your head and then darkness. An uncertain amount of time has passed when you awaken in a makeshift cage and can still hear the muffled party continuing above. There’s blood everywhere! What is this place? What’s happening here?
And how are you going to get out before becoming the killer’s next victim…?
What did we think of The Killer Basement?
There are three ways to play this game: each player is has a torch (hard), the team has a single torch (very hard), or no torches at all (ultra hard). We opted for a torch each – and we’re glad we did so.
The game takes place in almost total darkness, which significantly increases the challenge from the outset. And that’s before you even start trying to solve the puzzles…
The Killer Basement uses technology in a couple of interesting ways, some more successfully than others. The strongest parts of the game are the more cerebral and tactile elements.
Accessibility note: The game begins blindfolded which makes entering the room a little tricky. There is also one step up-and-down to navigate.
Warning: This game is very dark and may include jump scares and loud noises.
Our game stats:
Number of players: 2 (aged 47 – 61)
Time taken: 60 minutes
Number of clues: 3
Did we escape? No
Did we have fun? Yes
Price: $68.00 ($34 per player)*
Would we recommend? Yes
Rating: 4 out of 5
* You can get a 10% discount on your Epic Escapes game using the code EPIC10 when booking online
Top tip: Check out our Complete Escape Room Discount List for more money saving tips on your next escape room game.
Epic Escapes – Conclusion
Experienced gamers may feel the Lost Temple is a little simplistic (the fastest completion time posted this month is a mere 34 minutes). In which case you may be better choosing one of the harder rooms.
That said, The Killer Basement is a significant step up in terms of difficulty. We struggled to get started with several puzzles and ended up running out of time. I was really disappointed that we failed – Linda said it was a good lesson in being humble.
Also, a special note for our host, Patrick. He was hugely enthusiastic, encouraging and amusing – a real credit to the company.
Now the most important part of the Epic Escapes review – would we recommend you visit?
Yes, Epic Escapes is well worth a visit if you’re looking for a non-space themed activity while awaiting your cruise from Port Canaveral. We really enjoyed ourselves, staying to play an unplanned second game.
Located just 20 minutes from the cruise terminals, you could even fit one in the morning of your departure if you really wanted…
Where is Epic Escapes in Cocoa?
Epic Escapes
305 Brevard Avenue
Cocoa
FL 32922
Telephone: 386-689-3710
Web: https://www.EpicEscapesCocoa.com
Epic Escapes is centrally located in Cocoa, with plenty of parking options nearby.
During our visit, many of the roads in Cocoa were closed for a handicraft market. We ended up parking on the waterfront in Lee Henner Park, then walking back into town.
Disclosure
We did not receive any incentives or compensation for this Epic Escapes review.
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