IDEA: I first started with idea that it would be fun to create online games that encourage people to go outside. I used to run an escape room and really enjoyed the format of those types of games, so I wanted to figure out a way to recreate that experience outdoors. After toying with the idea of me making all the games, I realized it would be better to try and create a community of people who both play and make these games – something like geocaching. Geocaching involves people hiding caches and other people finding them – “The World’s Largest Treasure Hunt”. For EscapeOut.Games, people could play and create games (instead of caches) and these games could be either simple or more involved.

Basic Rules/Game Constraints:

• Do not alter the environment. Games are based on what is already present.
• All game puzzles must have unambiguous answers. There should be no debate about the correct solution. While puzzles can have more than one answer, it should be clear how to solve each puzzle.
• Games are played on location and are timed, encouraging competitive play.(However, the timed aspect is optional – if you’re not interested in beating someone else’s time, you can take as long as you like.)
• Games have levels, so players know what to expect:
  • Level 1: Simple tasks such as finding objects and answering easy questions (similar to a scavenger hunt).
  • Level 2: Involves more complex puzzles, combining scavenger hunt elements with basic logic and pattern recognition.
  • Level 3: Requires more advanced problem solving, pattern recognition, and critical thinking skills.