Nice motel, killer rooms
Location: Greenville, SC
Date Played: May 6, 2024
Team Size: 2-6; we recommend 2-4
Duration: 60 minutes
Price: $36-$56 per player, depending on team size
Ticketing: Private
Emergency Exit Rating: [A+] No Lock
Physical Restraints: [A+] No Physical Restraints
REA Reaction
Starlight Motel began with an immersive briefing of our mission: check into the motel undercover and investigate the mysterious disappearances of several recent motel guests. The desk clerk behind the counter greeted us with a cigarette dangling out of her mouth, a suspicious side-eye, and a feisty attitude. It was great; we were immediately in character and ready to figure out what was going on.
The motel looked dated, with dark paneling, a couple of basic chairs, and a shelf of brochures on the wall. One of the motel room doors said Honeymoon Suite, which was funny to even think of this place being a honeymoon destination. It all worked to create the right atmosphere for a roadside motel that had seen better days.
I wouldn't say the puzzles were especially unique or as sophisticated as you find in newer escape rooms today. There was one that could have used better cluing, and another that seemed out of place. But they were entertaining and kept us happily puzzling while anticipating the next aha moment.
Where this game really shined was the actor interaction. In addition to moving the story along seamlessly, they also provided hints in ways that didn't feel like hints at all. We were engaged in a such a way that encouraged us to be silly and lean in to our roles. Lines were often delivered with a good dose of humor, and these turned out to be some of the best moments of all. It was a perfect use of an actor that enhanced the experience tremendously. For us, it made the game.
It is worth travelling to Greenville, South Carolina, to play the games at Escape Artist Greenville, and a stay at the Starlight Motel should be on your itinerary. The combination of straightforward puzzles, actor interaction and immersive set made this game shine.
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