Escape from the Asylum is a cooperative deduction board game that was released in 2019 by Lifestyle Boardgames Ltd. Players take on the role of patients trying to escape from a haunted asylum while being pursued by a sinister doctor. With a mix of horror, medical themes, and puzzles, this game offers a unique and immersive experience for players.
Game Components of Escape from the Asylum
Two volumes: Each volume contains five chapters, making a total of ten stories.Card decks: Two main decks with 130 cards in Part 1 and 160 cards in Part 2, along with hint and solution booklets.Floor plan: A map of the North Oaks asylum.Envelopes: Representing different rooms, each containing game components and puzzles.Supplemental cards: With red backs, used for specific story elements.Portable items: Marked with a hand symbol, these items are kept on the table.Timesheet: To record start time and number of hints taken.
How To Setup Escape from the Asylum
To set up the game, start by opening Volume 1 and unsealing the two decks of cards, placing them facedown on the table. Gather note paper, pencils, and ensure the floor plan of the asylum is visible to all players. Each volume’s components are kept separate and should not be mixed. The main deck cards are arranged in numerical order, and the supplemental cards are set aside according to the instructions.
Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
Story-driven: Each chapter is told from the perspective of a different character, with intertwining storylines.Puzzle-solving: Players must solve a variety of puzzles, some requiring multi-layered logic and creative use of components.Choice-making: Players face life-changing decisions that affect the narrative and outcome.Exploration: Players navigate through the asylum using a map and envelopes representing different rooms.Objective: The ultimate goal is to escape the asylum by retrieving personal files, finding hiding places, and discovering a way out.
Player Experience
Players embark on a highly immersive journey, with the game’s choose-your-own-adventure style and first-person narrative enhancing the experience. The game requires strategic thinking, observation, and teamwork. While some puzzles can be challenging, with logic leaps or unclear steps, the hint system is available to help. Each playthrough can lead to different endings, adding replay value, although the puzzles themselves remain the same.
Pros
Immersive storytelling: Unique narrative approach with multiple character perspectives.Challenging puzzles: A variety of puzzles that are fun and intellectually stimulating.Replayability: Different endings based on player choices.Creative gameplay mechanics: Envelopes and maps create a vivid game space.Simple setup: Easy to prepare for a play session.
Cons
Confusing character narratives: Initial confusion in identifying characters and their roles.Logic leaps: Some puzzles have unclear steps or require prior knowledge.Non-replayable puzzles: While the story can change, the puzzles remain the same for the same players.Lengthy gameplay: Can take over 10 hours to complete the entire game.
Personal Thoughts on Escape from the Asylum
**Escape from the Asylum** is ideal for:
Story seekers: Those who enjoy narrative-driven games.Puzzle lovers: Fans of challenging and creative puzzles.Choose Your Own Adventure fans: Players who appreciate making choices that affect the game’s outcome.Any experience level: Suitable for players of all experience levels, though teamwork can be beneficial.This game is a must-play for those who enjoy immersive, story-rich experiences combined with challenging puzzles. While it may have some drawbacks, the overall experience is engaging and rewarding.
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