How to host a printable escape room

Step by step

1. Pick the game. Choose by the youngest player, not the oldest. Check the player count: most escape rooms fit one team of up to 6 or 8. For more players, print one set per team of 3 to 5.
2. Check your printer. Most games print on US Letter or A4. Most work in black and white; the listing should say if a puzzle needs color. You'll want scissors and one envelope per puzzle, plus one for the final lock.
3. Print the day before. Print everything, cut out cards and hint cards, and number the envelopes to match the puzzles. Keep the answer key in a separate folder.
4. Decide: run it or play along. Running it: read the host guide and the answer key, then you check codes and give hints. Playing along: read only the host guide (about 10 minutes for most games) and never open the answer key; this works only if the game has a spoiler-free way to check answers, such as answer cards or a code that opens the next envelope. Note any puzzle that needs a prop, such as a mirror or a clock.
5. Set the scene. Lay the envelopes on a table in order, or hide them around the room at the spots the host guide suggests. Dim the lights or play music if you like.
6. Start the game. Read the story letter aloud, explain how to ask for a hint, and start the timer. Players open envelope 1.
7. Check codes and give hints. If you are running it, players bring each code to you before opening the next envelope. If you are playing along, use the game's answer check. A common hint rule: stuck for about 5 minutes, read hint 1; still stuck 5 minutes later, hint 2. Younger kids need hints sooner.
8. Finish. When the final code is right, read the ending, hand out certificates or a prize, and take a photo with the time on the clock.

What you need

• A home printer and paper (US Letter or A4)
• Scissors and one envelope per puzzle (usually 8 to 16)
• A timer: a phone, an oven clock or a timer on the TV
• A pencil and scrap paper for each team
• A small prize or treat for the end (optional)

Running it for a group

Small family (2–6)

One set, one team. A grown-up either runs it or plays along; see step 4.

Party (8–15 kids)

Print two or three sets. Teams race in parallel; the first team with the final code wins.

Classroom (20–30)

One set per team of 3 to 5. Put the timer on the projector and keep one answer key at your desk.

Teens and adults

Fewer hints, a stricter timer. A murder mystery party suits groups who want to play characters.

Common mistakes

• Picking for the oldest child. The youngest player decides the level; older kids can help.
• Too many players per set. Past about 6, some kids stop solving. Print another set.
• No hint plan. Long stalls end the fun. Decide the hint rule before you start.
• Printing on the day. Ink runs out and cutting takes longer than you think. Print the day before.
• Leaving the answer key in the pile. Keep it in a separate folder.