The Theater of Illusions
The Theatre of Illusions, Le Casse-Tête Delaunay’s first experience, caught my attention in its opening year with its 112th place at the Terpeca. Having played it, I can understand why it got so much love by the enthusiasts. For one thing, it’s an interesting, well-developed story.
Anatole built a small theatre in his house for his wife, but it had stood empty since her death. Then Anatole suddenly disappeared and OXO, a masked magician, reopened the theatre. When he is looking for an assistant, we take the opportunity to apply for the job and find out whether OXO has anything to do with Anatole’s disappearance.
What always contributes to a successful and memorable escape game experience is a extraordinary start and a special finale. The theatre delivers in both aspects. The beginning in particular, where Maria made her special appearance, is one of the most spectacular scenes I have ever seen in an illusion-themed room.
I also really liked other aspects of the game. A very original help system, or a kind of magic box, which, depending on the players’ input, can contribute a lot to the game’s humour and dynamics.
The decoration is high quality. Everything makes sense and somehow has a purpose. The puzzles are challenging, varied and thematic and the flow of the game never stops. As there isn’t quite as much space in the theatre, I would say that three people are ideal.
