Blackout: All You Need To Know About Our New Cluetivity Outdoor Escape Game [with FAQs]

Blackout: All You Need To Know About Our New Cluetivity Outdoor Escape Game [with FAQs]

by | Jun 17, 2022 | B2B, Business, Outdoor Escape Room, Partner

We are all eager to get out and experience new things, even if it’s in our own city, enjoy the weather, breathe fresh air and have fun with some outdoor activity. Well, it’s about time!

Outdoor Escape Rooms are just what we are looking for and, moreover, presently considered a very popular social entertainment activity. They combine the best elements of escape rooms, scavenger hunts and geocaching with the help of a smartphone or a tablet.

 

What is an outdoor escape game?

Outdoor escape games are fully immersive adventure games where the team’s main goal is to solve a mission within a time limit. The games are equipped with a complete storyline set in real locations, tricky riddles, fantastic AR avatars and complementary gadgets for a real-like feeling. Usually, these adventures are run on a phone or tablet following a real online map.

Outdoor escape games are among the most famous fully immersive scavenger game experiences for company events, family bonding, and friends getaway. Frankly speaking, it’s a worldwide trend as they add interactivity to the reality surrounding to immerse teams into a whole story.

When it comes to lasting experiences, outdoor games are way better than other team games available. It improves our emotional, mental, and physical health. Outdoor Escape Rooms provide the perfect combination of team-building activities and mind-bending puzzles for groups who enjoy solving problems together while enjoying real scenarios.

 

How to set up an Escape Game

Creating a good escape room is hard. It’s not enough to just have an interesting premise or some fantastic riddles – it needs the right balance of both. Most escape rooms suffer from one of two problems; either they’re too easy, and players can solve them without any thought, or they’re so complicated that players need to spend hours trying every possible solution before finally getting through.

First and foremost, you need an exciting premise that will grab your players’ attention from the start – make sure they’re invested in solving your riddles before they even walk through the door! Next, consider how complex each riddle should be; not too easy (or people might get bored) and not too hard (so people don’t give up).

Finally, think about what type of customer or demographic you want to attract with your escape room experience. This way, you can design an escape room that’s just right for them! Have you thought about creating one for yourself? Cluetivity experts are here for you.

The Cluetivity Outdoor Escape Games have been created by experienced game designers who know how to make fun scenarios for players with all levels of experience and skillsets. We have decades of combined experience in creating physical games that challenge people in new ways, but we also understand how tricky online gaming can be to make sure your customers have a great time! We cover any audience requirements and understand the niche of your business, giving you the right tools to build unique, exclusive and top-quality escape games for your B2B and B2C business.

For instance, our latest outdoor game experience, Blackout, is fully equipped with top-notch elements such as AR avatars, ultimate gadgets and hidden clues, new multiplayer features and the latest technology.

 

Blackout, The Latest Outdoor Game Experience

 

FAQ

1. What is Blackout?

Blackout is a Cyber-Spy-Hacking-Game taking place in the modern universe. An unknown group of hackers hacked a city power plant, causing one of the biggest threats in modern times: a citywide Blackout!

The consequence is the complete collapse of the modern world as we know it. Unknown to the population, players’ city is currently running on emergency power. They have just a limited time to stop the hackers, restore the power supply and avoid the biggest catastrophe in modern history!

 

2. What is the team’s mission?

Here is the mission:

  1. Three (3) main power nodes and a secret emergency generator can control the city power network. The team must find these power nodes and activate them.
  1. The team has to find the secret emergency generator and restart it to restore the power in their city!

 

As this is a mission of the utmost importance to the whole world, the city is full of agents from different organizations and stakeholders who are either on the same mission as the team or double agents who want to stop them! To protect the team against possible opponents, Cluetivity has equipped each team with a unique new skill: Hacking!

The teams must use this new skill carefully.

 

3. Is the Blackout mission complemented with any widgets?

Definitely yes! Each team will be equipped with a unique case called ‘ActionPack.’ This ActionPack is designed to make the story fully immersive and interactive, making it genuine thanks to the great items and hidden clues.

There will be around three (3) pre-defined ActionPack riddles in the game. Additional ActionPack riddles can be created easily with some of the provided items. We are producing a wholly customized case for the ActionPack, which will fit perfectly into the game setting. The new ActionPack will weigh just around 2,2KG.

 

4. What is the estimated playing time?

The standard playing time is between 2 to 2,5 hours. Yet, the playing time could be reduced to around 1,5 to 2 hours by deleting 2 to 3 riddles.

 

5. Can Blackout be played as a single-player or in teams?

Our mission is to build teamwork, cooperation and team bonding within each game. Therefore, the game is designed to play in teams. We recommend each team be between 2 to 5 players.

 

6. Can different teams play against each other?

Yes! Teams can play parallel to each other. Players can also play „against“ each other. Each player’s score can be compared at the end of the game. Besides the high score, our new optional Multiplayer Feature (Versus Mode) will allow players to interact directly against each other.

 

7. What means the “Versus Mode” in Blackout, and how does it work?

The „Versus Mode” (also called VS-Mode) is an optional and additional new mode in Blackout. It is a multiplayer feature that enables teams to fight against each other. The standard story-based game mode works without the VS-Mode!

The VS-Mode can be activated in the route settings on the iPad. If the VS-Mode is activated, players see an additional Button inside the User Interface of the App. This button enables the players to „Hack“ other teams and steal money from them (in Blackout, the teams collect ENERGY and DOLLARS $).

To use the VS-Mode, the iPad MUST be connected to the internet! For this mode, SIM cards are needed. The data volume for using this function is low, so no big data plans are required.

 

8. What are the limitations of the “Versus Mode”?

The VS-Mode does not work for single teams. It will work only if multiple teams are playing simultaneously and in the same high score.

 

9. What outdoor settings and conditions should be considered to set up Blackout?

We recommend using a city location (probably a forest would not fit much to the setting). Any urban area with buildings will be okay. The size of the area needed is very flexible and depends on the length of the game.

 

10. Is Blackout exclusively an outdoor game?

Not really! We plan to release an indoor version with printed documents and without the need for the ActionPack.

 

11. Which iPad model is recommended to play the game smoothly?

We recommend an iPad 6th gen Wi-Fi + Cellular (2018) or newer to run Blackout and other Cluetivity games such as Operation Mindfall, Magic Portal or The Last Secret. There might be other iPads like iPad 5 or iPad Air 2+3 and several iPad Pro models which might be supported. A detailed list of all supported devices will be published once the first version is available in the app store soon.

In our upcoming Outdoor Escape Game Blackout, players will be equipped with an exciting new Gadget Case – the Cluetivity ActionPack™ and immersed in a fully new story. Become a Cluetivity Partner now and bring Blackout to your city this summer!

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Mobile Escape Game Review: Can You Solve Crimes Under Pressure?

Mobile Escape Game Review: Can You Solve Crimes Under Pressure?

by | Apr 1, 2021 | B2B, Business, Partner

Mobile room escape games are among the latest recreational and educational activities for solving puzzles and decoding secret messages following a crime scene theme. It requires physical and mental preparedness as players will embark on completing the immersive puzzle game.

Suppose you’re planning to offer mobile escape room games for various occasions. Cluetivity will walk you through one of its phenomenal puzzle game offerings (Einstein Unsolved!) and discuss how beneficial it is to play an escape game.

Generally, this article will cover the following:

  • understanding the essence of an escape room.
  • the benefits of playing mobile escape games.
  • frequently asked questions about mobile escape room.
  • a sneak peek of Cluetivity’s Einstein Unsolved.

 

What is a Mobile Escape Room?

Mobile escape room from the term “mobile” is a portable escape room game designed to be set up in client’s locations. You read that, right! Instead of going to the actual escape room business location, the escape room will come to you.

Isn’t that fun? It does not end there. Mobile escape games come in varieties of mobile rooms. You can choose from large-scale puzzle hunts, the converted trailers, short plays with the size of a photo booth, or props specifically chosen to transform any room into a playing ground.

All the participants can surely enjoy the prepared games as most of them are played with a standard time of 60minutes.

 

Players looking at clues for Operation Mindfall Indoor

 

Benefits in Playing Room Escape Games

Playing room escape games offer a plethora of benefits, including:

It can improve one’s mood.

According to research, puzzle-solving in escape rooms can improve participants’ mood. Solving problems can increase dopamine production, which is the neurotransmitter that function is to regulate mood.

A great stress reliever

Believe it or not, solving a puzzle can help a person relax as it allows you to shift your focus which usually happens when solving puzzles. If you are stress by work, escape rooms are the best stress reliever.

It can improve memory recall.

By solving puzzles, it revitalises the remaining connections between the brain cells, and as a result, it can significantly improve your mental health and thinking process.

Unexpected accelerated ingenuity

It means that we force our brain to develop a possible solution whenever our brains solve puzzles.

Considered as the best workout for the brain

As you try to solve problems and puzzles, you allow your brain to think uniquely and strengthen its various parts.

 

Integrate actors in Einstein Unsolved

 

 

FAQs on Escape Rooms

Are escape rooms scary?

No. Although some escape rooms are horror-themes designed like a zombie apocalypse or haunted house. Most escape rooms are fun and entertaining. You should not worry if you do not like a horror theme. You can always choose a non-horror theme online.

 

What happens if you fail to complete the escape room game?

The majority of escape rooms follow a standard escape time of 60mins or less. Do not worry if you failed to complete the escape room. Only 20% – 40% of participants have succeeded in finishing the escape room.

If your time is up and you are still inside the escape room, one of the staff members will show you the clues you missed, walk you through the whole thing, and aid you in going out.

 

Player grabbing the holy grail in chest

 

What are the rules to follow in escape games?

Like any other game, an escape room has its own rules like the following:

Rule #1 If the escape room requires you to show up 15mins early, you should follow the rule and ask your team to do the same and show up in time.

Rule#2 Before heading to the escape room location, you should check their website to see the items that are not allowed inside the game facility. Some of these items include cameras, bags, lighters, phones, and pens.

Rule#3 Do NOT damage anything that is inside the game area.

Rule#4 Do NOT show up intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol.

 

What kind of puzzles include escape rooms?

Different escape rooms offer different types of puzzles.

  • Number and Text Puzzle

You are not required to have a degree in English or Maths to solve this kind of puzzle, but you’ll undoubtedly use words and numbers to solve this puzzle.

  • Physical Puzzle

It is the most common type of puzzle in an escape room, like undoing knots, quickly moving objects, and moving large objects.

  • Light and Sound Cues

Many escape rooms use this kind of puzzle where participants like you listen closely to background sound, pay close attention to where the lights are directing, and listen to the song’s lyrics.

  • Hidden Object Puzzle

Escape rooms rarely laid out a clue as soon as you enter the facility or any room. Hidden objects are one of the most common types of puzzles you have to find inside the room.

  • Visual Design Puzzle

Although some participants think that the room’s design is just for aesthetics, the truth is, standard escape room puzzles incorporate the creation of the room.

  • Combination Puzzles

This type of puzzle does not rely on just one puzzle type. It is usually a combination of different objects and clues.

But if you want to have it your way, Cluetivity offers customisable puzzles for the escape room in the guise of Augmented Reality minigames.

 

Einstein Unsolved: An Immersive Mobile Escape Room Experience

What is Einstein Unsolved?

Einstein Unsolved is the latest mobile escape game offering by Cluetivity, which features Augmented Reality (AR) minigames. The plot of the game revolves around finding the culprit toEinstein’s death by travelling back in time. It has a playing time of 0-60 minutes. The game time can be adjusted and played using an iPad. It’s an AR minigame set up in malls, at home, at a trade show, wedding reception, and other events.

Escape Game Features of Einstein Unsolved

It can be played anywhere (preferably indoors) or directly from the organiser’s site.

Playable with only an iPad without any staff assistance or additional equipment,

the minigames can be set up in minutes

Minigames’ playing time and puzzles are customisable.

Best Uses of Einstein Unsolved

  • Offer guests a short mini-game to bridge waiting times.
  • Use ‘Einstein Unsolved’ for icebreaker events.
  • Ideal for Product Placement and Promotions.
  • Collect the email address of participants to generate leads and boost your business.

 

Conclusion

Cluetivity offers a convenient way to play escape games in the guise of Einstein Unsolved. Players can enjoy the experience it using an iPad. The game time is very flexible, making it a perfect breakout minigame to keep your event attendees engaged and entertained. The mobile escape game can also be installed in any indoor venue, so your participants’ safety is secured.
Want to spice up your upcoming event with a mobile escape game? Get in touch with a Cluetivity expert today!

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Escape Rooms and Other Virtual Office and Home Ideas to Celebrate Easter

Escape Rooms and Other Virtual Office and Home Ideas to Celebrate Easter

by | Apr 1, 2021 | B2B, Business, Outdoor Escape Room, Virtual Escape Room

Are you ready to celebrate Easter 2021? This is one of the holidays people look forward to every year as it marks the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. But like 2020, everybody will be celebrating Easter 2021 inside their homes for safety against COVID.

Though most people have spent Easter 2020 at homes, there are other ways to celebrate Easter remotely. In this article, we’ll share with you how you can make Easter extra special. Plus, we’ll cover the following topics that will make Easter 2021 remarkable:

  • Why remote socialising is essential (especially in these challenging times).
  • The challenges encountered by remote teams in virtual bonding.
  • Tips for celebrating Easter with remote teams and family.
  • The Fantasy Epos: Cluetivity’s exclusive escape game for beginners, family, and kids.

 

Why is remote socialising important?

Some people who are not in a remote setup often think that having this kind of arrangement is beneficial and less stressful. The truth is, working at home is way more complicated than a typical office job.

Why?

Remote workers are faced with enormous challenges every day. Tha includes time-management, messed-up eating habits, lack of sleep due to overtime, poor hygiene, and zero social life. Research proves that remote workers possess weaker relationships with their colleagues than those who worked in the office.

65% of remote workers haven’t experienced an actual bonding session since the COVID surface, especially if most remote workers are offshore. That’s why many health advocates call on businesses to put their remote employees on a priority and make sure that they can engage in regular team socialising.

Lack of team bonding will eventually affect communication that will turn to chaos. However, it can be prevented with remote socialising. It helps build a genuine human connection amongst remote workers that will build trust and rapport.

Ultimately, remote workers will be able to contribute to company culture with their involvement. They will feel valued by the company they are working for, and the corporate team building events will bring a positive impact within the teams.

 

home office with company

 

 

The challenges encountered by the remote teams in virtual bonding

A recent survey in remote work uncovered the real complications of work from home arrangement. Some felt like their job is unbeatable, and the majority of the employees communicates less with their managers. But the most common challenge everyone has to face is somehow apparent. That is being physically isolated from your co-workers.

If you are working remotely, you can significantly relate to this that working from home can be very lonely. As you step out of the office environment, you can no longer enjoy the opportunities of bonding with your colleagues and building trust with them. This often leads to disengagement, which often resulted in poor work performance.

It might not seem a big deal yet, but 94% of surveyed workers agree that respect and connection play a massive role in their team’s success, while 19% of them said that it’s an essential factor for their well-being. Understanding each other in their personal life implies that they can effectively communicate and distribute responsibilities within the team.

 

How to Celebrate Easter with Remote Teams Members and Family

To survive a remote setup and its challenges, here are few ideas on how companies can spread virtual celebration to your co-workers on a remote arrangement and their families.

Easter food baskets and gifts for WFH teams

This Easter, give joy to your colleagues or employees with food delivery. It is usually available nationwide directly to the employee’s home with options to suit a wide range of customers’ dietary needs. This way, no one amongst you will miss out on this holiday even while working at home.

In fact, it has been a custom to Microsoft since the beginning of the pandemic to send “care packages” to their remote employees. Employees receive these packages every month at their home addresses.

 

For their “eggcellent” Easter treats, the holiday will not be complete without their famous chocolate eggs. It’s made with milk chocolate and studded honeycomb pieces. These luxurious-looking eggs from the well-known Art Chocolate are the ideal gift for hard-working remote teams like yours.

Crime Solving Puzzles as Virtual Icebreaker

Virtual icebreakers on important occasions make it more memorable. It does not only offer fun but is also an effective team-building activity.

Remote teams will be working closely and communicate to solve the problem. If the team succeeded in solving the case, the employees could all enjoy the virtual team-building victory. And what led to the “AHA” moment could be the start of breaking communication barriers.

Image

Virtual City Tour

It is one of the most enjoyable activities to try this Easter. It’s a live virtual city tour wherein someone will provide a tour in a place like Paris and show people around the city via Zoom. Using a GoPro, live stream, and riding around the city, remote teams can see the beautiful streets on a bike.

A person can stop in all famous sites and even watch a great chocolatier in making a fresh batch of chocolates. It’s highly recommended as a team-building activity this Easter.

Online lunch date with remote teams

It is a real-time game, and players require 60 minutes to finish it. Remote teams will only need to video conference to do this.

Participants can even spend on food from their favourite café, order food, or cook something at home.

If remote teams have 15-30 minutes to spare? No worries. Virtual coffee chats, play mini escape game puzzles and virtual happy hours are fun variations of this activity. It’s a chill activity everyone can enjoy. Cluetivity’s gamification platform offers some valuable alternatives.

 Home-delivery lunch as company present

 

Virtual Escape Room

The online escape games became more popular last 2020 – the year when it’s impossible to have a face-to-face event due to the pandemic.

Virtual escape rooms provide challenges and adventure for teams in the office and at home with remote work. Players are provided with similar puzzles and tasks to accomplish, like in a standard room and with the same goal: escape.

  • The participants can play the Remote Escape Game via Zoom.
  • It can accommodate up to 8 players.
  • A host guides it in the room with a live video feed.
  • The guide will direct teams through the adventure as teams pick up clues in their very own digital dashboard to solve the mission in 60 minutes.

The players can choose the theme that they prefer, like breaking out of prison, finding a gold mine, solving a crime, and more. This game is a great way to boost team communication, bond, learn about each one’s personality, and have a great time.

 

Spend Easter with Cluetivity’s The Fantasy Epos

Spend Easter this year with remote employees, family, and friends with Cluetivity’s Magic Portal: The Fantasy Epos. Though most employees and families will be in a lockdown, it’s the perfect outdoor escape game people can enjoy outdoors or indoors. The Fantasy Epos is the best escape game with high-tech ar technology to introduce to beginners and fantasy-themed escape room lovers.

Game features

  • It is playable within 1 to 3 hours which is also adjustable.
  • It comes with an action pack designed to make the escape room experience engaging and challenging.
  • The game is ready-to-play, and the mini-games are customisable without the need for any programming skills.
  • It’s an escape game aimed at beginners, family, and children (it’s a great activity at birthday parties, too!)
  • This outdoor game can be set up outdoor or indoors.

Game Uses

Other than family gatherings, this Cluetivity escape game exclusive is also available in the following applications:

  • City Exploration
  • Playful Tours
  • Historical Tours
  • Wine Tours
  • Bachelor Parties
  • School Reunions
  • Pub Crawls
  • Fantasy Fan Conventions

 

Wrapping it Up

The pandemic once again forced people to spend Easter at home, but people can make a change by making their Easter more memorable and action-packed. There are tons of ways to celebrate Easter this 2021, and if you want it to make it different than last year, it’s just a call away with Cluetivity. Contact a specialist today to experience The Fantasy Epos and ar experience this Easter.

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