Escape Simulator VR is a fulfilling adaptation of the acclaimed escape room game, providing ample content and diversity according to VR standards.
The initial Escape Simulator is an escape room game compatible with Windows, MacOS, and Linux, having sold more than two and a half million copies on Steam since its launch in 2021.
A VR mode for the Steam version was made available as a free update in April 2024, followed by a standalone variant for Meta Quest 3, 3S, 2, and Pro in October 2024.
Over the past few weeks, I have been enjoying Escape Simulator on Quest 3 alongside my neighbor. We have dedicated over ten hours to solving puzzles and escaping from more than a dozen rooms. Remarkably, we have yet to even complete a third of the content, not including the (paid) DLC.
How does Escape Simulator function in virtual reality?
Escape Simulator VR is a dependable port that meets all expectations concerning VR settings. You can opt for smooth locomotion (optionally with a customizable vignette) or teleportation without needing to choose between the two movement methods. Snap Turn and Smooth Turn are available, as well as the option to play while seated, standing, or moving about your space. We played in a swivel chair and on a couch without any issues.
Escape Simulator does compromise on object interactions. You have the option to pull objects from a distance or grasp them with your hand, though the latter often appears as a semi-transparent hand rather than sitting realistically in it. This applies to various interactions. For example, you cannot open a suitcase using your hands. Instead, you point an invisible beam at the latches and press a button. This is the case for most items within the game.
I consider these concessions acceptable given the significant expense it would have incurred for the studio to implement realistic hand interactions for each item featured in the game. However, my neighbor, who possesses less experience with virtual reality, would have appreciated them. She faced challenges with the more abstract object interaction in Escape Simulator VR.
What I would have preferred is a method to transfer items between hands. Practically, it’s simpler to drop items at your teammate’s feet for them to retrieve. The inventory system, however, is well-designed, showcasing collected items as floating bubbles that you can simply reach into to pick up.
Conclusion: A strong recommendation
My neighbor and I are not experts in escape rooms and have yet to accomplish solving any of the rooms within the allotted timeframe. Yet, this isn’t a concern since you can continue solving puzzles even after the timer runs out. The difficulty level varies significantly, and we would not have solved certain puzzles without the hints provided in the game.
Up to ten players can participate in a single escape room, yet Escape Simulator is fine-tuned for three players. The game features cross-play with the Steam edition, allowing you to play with friends on PC whether they’re using a headset or not. Setting up the game is straightforward: simply create a room and share the code with your friends.
Escape Simulator boasts extensive content and a wide array of locations and themes for an affordable price. Here is a summary of all the available escape rooms:
- Labyrinth of Egypt: 5 rooms (Archaeology theme)
- Adrift in Space: 5 rooms (Sci-fi & Space theme)
- Edgewood Mansion: 5 rooms (old English mansion theme)
- Omega Corporation: 5 rooms (Theme: Technology Corporation)
- Extra: 4 rooms (Themes: Christmas, Horror, Cats, Leonardo Da Vinci), with 2 additional rooms on the way
- The Talos Principle DLC: 1 room (inspired by the game)
- Community: 14 rooms (curated community content, ported by Pine Studio)
If that isn’t enough, there are four paid DLCs (one of which is still in development):
- Magic DLC: 4 rooms
- Wild West DLC: 4 rooms
- Steampunk DLC: 4 rooms
- Mayan DLC: 4 rooms arriving “soon”
If you seek an escape room game that provides endless entertainment with friends in VR, Escape Simulator stands out as an ideal option.
You can buy Escape Simulator from the Horizon Store and on Steam.
Have you given Escape Simulator a try yet? Express your thoughts in the comments below.
