Prohibition
Incognito runs six escape games across two locations in Dublin, just a few minutes’ walk apart. We played five of them. What really stood out to me was the difference between the rooms at their new venue by the Old Dublin City Wall and the older location on Bridgefoot Street. The new site is a clear level-up in terms of production value and set design – even the foyer is an eye-catcher!
My favorite room was Prohibition. I’ve played quite a few escape games with a speakeasy theme before, but this one truly stood out. Why? Because it’s a reverse escape game – a brilliant twist on the usual concept. Instead of solving puzzles to open drawers and locks to find things, you start with everything already available and have one hour to hide all the illegal goods – alcohol, gambling items, and weapons – before the police arrive for an inspection.
What you’re wondering the whole time is, “Where the hell am I supposed to hide all this stuff? There’s no way there’s enough space!” That makes it even more thrilling.
It took us a little while to adjust our thinking and get into the game, but once we did, it was incredibly satisfying. Each time we discovered a new hiding spot, stashed something away, and got that little piece of positive feedback for doing it right, it felt great. Bit by bit, all the contraband disappeared and the bar transformed into what looked like a perfectly innocent establishment. Such a clever and refreshing experience!
We also played Orphanage at the same venue, and that one really raises the bar when it comes to soundscape, lighting, and set design. It’s another one that’s absolutely worth playing!
