Wolf Escape Games
Game time: ~120 minutes
Ages: 10+
Difficulty: 3/5
Date played: January 2025
[Note: This game can only be played once, so once you complete it, you cannot share the game code for anyone else to complete it.]
We've been wanting to play an online escape room for a while, and one company that kept popping up as one of the best was Wolf Escape Games. We got a two-game bundle while it was on special (AU$60), and the kids played it during the school holidays while the adults were busy. They both logged in on separate devices and competed to see who could finish the game first. Afterwards, I made Z (age 13 at the time) write the review. Here it is!
Phantom’s Hour is our second virtual escape room from Wolf Escape Game, and it surpassed expectations — even outshining Hallows Hill in our opinion. With stunning graphics, an engaging story, top-notch production value, and cleverly designed puzzles, this escape room is a must-try for fans of puzzles.
The narrative is set in 18th-century Britain, immersing players in a gripping mystery alongside Sherlock Holmes and his trusted companion, Watson. The game begins with an urgent plea from a desperate maid wrongfully accused of murder. Determined to uncover the truth, Watson and Sherlock embark on a perilous journey to London, navigating twists and turns to reveal the real culprit.
What sets Phantom’s Hour apart is how the story unfolds primarily through Watson’s perspective, while Sherlock’s legendary intellect serves as a guide throughout the investigation. This dynamic adds depth and authenticity to the gameplay, making it a standout experience in the world of virtual escape rooms.
The puzzles in Phantom’s Hour are similar to those found in real-life escape rooms. Ingeniously crafted, they blend traditional logic challenges with interactive, hands-on tasks that simulate real-world problem-solving. Some puzzles cleverly incorporate elements of London’s history and old-fashioned spy techniques, adding layers of immersion and intrigue.
Another standout feature is the game’s exceptional production value. The Wolf Escape team evidently put meticulous effort into the game’s design. Apart from the gorgeous visuals and well-integrated puzzles, the audio and voiceovers are equally impressive, perfectly complementing the 18th-century atmosphere and drawing players deeper into the story.
The narrative is rich and engaging, weaving together ghosts, gangs, and forgotten London passageways to create a thrilling adventure. These elements make the game both captivating and memorable. While Hallows Hill has the awards and reputation, Phantom's Hour has the superior puzzles, making it our preferred experience.
Rating: 9/10
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